Auckland New Zealand 7 Day Itinerary

Auckland, New Zealand 7-Day Itinerary (Markdown Format)

Day 1: Arrival & City Orientation

  • Arrive at Auckland Airport. You can use the Airport Link bus or taxi to get to your accommodation.
  • Check-in at your hotel: Recommended hotels include SkyCity Grand Hotel (Central) and ibis Budget Auckland Airport (Near Airport).
  • Spend the afternoon exploring Downtown Auckland. Visit Viaduct Harbour, Queen Street for shopping, and Auckland Ferry Terminal for great views of the city and harbor.
  • Have dinner at a local restaurant: Orbit 360° (revolving restaurant) or Clooney (fine dining).
  • Things to Know: Auckland operates on New Zealand Standard Time (NZST, UTC+12).

Day 2: Explore Waitematā Harbour & Waiheke Island

  • Take a Fullers Ferry from Auckland Ferry Terminal to Waiheke Island. Spend the day exploring wineries, beaches, and art galleries.
  • Lunch at one of Waiheke’s many vineyards or eateries such as Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant.
  • Return to Auckland in the evening and have dinner at Graze (modern New Zealand cuisine) or The Blue Breeze Inn (seafood).

Day 3: Visit Auckland Museum & Western Springs

  • Spend the morning at the Auckland War Memorial Museum. Explore Maori and Pacific cultures, natural history, and military exhibits.
  • Lunch nearby at Fine Food Depot or The Café.
  • In the afternoon, visit Western Springs Park and see the Auckland Zoo (optional).
  • Dinner at Giapo (creative gelato) or Eat Streat Northshore (food truck park).

Day 4: Hike & Relax at Mission Bay & Bastion Point

  • Morning hike from Mission Bay to Bastion Point. Enjoy scenic views of the city, harbor, and volcanic cones.
  • Lunch at The Oyster Inn or Hell’s Pizza.
  • Spend the afternoon relaxing at Mission Bay Beach or rent a kayak to explore the bay.
  • Dinner at Mission Bay Indian Restaurant or Little Bird Unbaked.

Day 5: Explore West Auckland & Raglan Beach

  • Take a day trip to Raglan Beach and explore the black sand beach, surf spots, and Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
  • Lunch at one of Raglan’s cafes or restaurants like Bombay Palace (Indian) or Salted Café.
  • Return to Auckland in the evening and have dinner at Culprit (modern American cuisine) or Ima (Japanese).

Day 6: Visit Waitakere Ranges & Rainforest Walks

  • Spend the day exploring the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. Enjoy walks through the lush rainforests, visit waterfalls like Arataki Visitor Centre, and beaches like Piha Beach.
  • Lunch at a local café in Piha or nearby.
  • In the evening, have dinner at The Hoani Waititi Marae & Eatery (Maori cultural center with food) or Titanium Restaurant (Italian).

Day 7: Departure

  • Spend your last morning relaxing or shopping for souvenirs in Downtown Auckland.
  • Check out from your hotel and head to Auckland Airport for your departure flight.

Transportation: You can use buses, trams, trains, ferries, and taxis in Auckland. Consider purchasing a AT HOP Card for easier travel around the city.

Tips: Dress in layers as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Always carry cash and a credit card for transactions.