Auckland, New Zealand 6 Day Itinerary

Auckland, New Zealand 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & City Orientation

  • Arrive at Auckland International Airport.
  • Check-in at your accommodation (recommended: SkyCity Grand Hotel, centrally located and offers great views of the city).
  • Grab lunch at Queen’s Wharf Precinct (variety of eateries).
  • Visit Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s art scene.
  • Stroll around Viaduct Harbour and enjoy the waterfront views.
  • Dinner at Orbit 360° restaurant, located on top of the Sky Tower for stunning city views.
  • Tips: Get an AT HOP card for unlimited travel on buses, trains, and ferries (https://at.govt.nz/fares-and-tickets/at-hop/)

Day 2: Explore Downtown & Waiheke Island

  • Start the day with breakfast at Federal Delicatessen.
  • Visit Auckland Museum to learn about Maori and colonial history.
  • Lunch at K’Rd Precinct (known for its diverse food options).
  • Take a ferry to Waiheke Island (Departs from Downtown Ferry Terminal).
  • Explore beaches, vineyards, and art galleries on the island.
  • Have dinner at Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant.
  • Return to Auckland in the evening.

Day 3: North Shore & Beach Day

  • Breakfast at your accommodation or grab something on-the-go from a local café.
  • Take the ferry to Devonport (north shore) and visit North Head Historic Reserve.
  • Lunch at Molten Chocolate Cafe.
  • Spend the afternoon relaxing on Takapuna Beach.
  • Dinner at The Shack in Takapuna for some great fish & chips.

Day 4: Waitakere Ranges & West Coast Beaches

  • Breakfast at your accommodation or nearby café.
  • Drive to Waitakere Ranges and visit the famous Karekare Beach (used as a location for “The Piano” movie).
  • Lunch at The White House Cafe in Piha.
  • Explore the forest walks and waterfalls within the Waitakere Ranges.
  • Dinner back in Auckland, try Cuba Street, known for its vibrant nightlife and restaurants.

Day 5: Hobbiton & Wine Country

  • Early morning departure to Matamata (approximately 2 hours drive) to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set.
  • Lunch at Greenhill Estate Winery & Cafe.
  • Spend the afternoon wine tasting at local wineries such as Westbrook Winery, Indigo Wines, and Cottage Block Wines.
  • Dinner in Matamata or return to Auckland for dinner (recommended: The Federal Delicatessen for a second visit).

Day 6: Departure Day

  • Breakfast at your accommodation or nearby café.
  • Spend the morning exploring any remaining areas of interest in Auckland.
  • Depart from Auckland International Airport.