From panoramic views over the city skyline to stunning regional parks, here is a list of the best views in Auckland, New Zealand.
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When planning my crazy 4-month overseas adventure around Europe, I did not expect that I would end up in New Zealand just a week before my departure date. Neither did I expect that my parents (and potentially I) would be moving to the place for good! I had never given New Zealand much thought before finding out I may be moving to the land of the Kiwi. I knew about as much as every other Aussie knows of our neighbouring country, that is three things:
1. They are known for their sheep. Although Australia apparently has more sheep in quantity than New Zealand. Seems ironic that the country is basically defined by these furry animals!
2. Arguably one the greatest movies of all time was filmed on its turf. It is the only place in the world where there is hope to bump into a hobbit running around the countryside.
3. They don’t say fish and chips. They say fush and chups. And a bunch of other ridiculous words that have featured on many a famous youtube video.
Actually visiting New Zealand and seeing what it was like for myself was all a bit of a surreal experience. I only had a week in the country, so my time was mostly just exploring Auckland. I was pleasantly surprised by how many scenic spots we stumbled upon around the city!
8 BEST VIEWS IN AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND:
1. Mount Eden Mountain
It’s no surprise that Mount Eden is one Auckland’s most visited mountains. It’s a fairly short walk to the summit, where you can witness the epic sight of a dormant volcano’s 50-meter crater. Mount Eden also offers some of the best views over Auckland city.
HOT TIP: Take some time to explore the quaint Mount Eden village before or after you head up the mountain.
SEE ALSO: A Guide to Exploring Auckland in Four Days
2. Bastion Point Lookout
This has got to be one of my favourite photography spots in Auckland. Bastion point offers fantastic views over the Hauraki Gulf and Waitemata Harbour as well as the Auckland City skyline. It is also home to the Savage Memorial, which includes a beautifully-kept garden, reflecting pool and art deco memorial to wander through.
HOT TIP: Combine this with a visit to Mission Bay Beach (see below) as it is just next door!
3. Mission Bay Beach
As one of the closest beaches to Auckland CBD, Mission Bay is a great place to escape to when you want a little respite from the city. The waterfront suburb is also filled with fabulous places to drink and eat, making it well worth the visit!
HOT TIP: Grab some fish and chips from one of the eateries on Mission Bay’s main street (Tamaki Drive) and take it down to the beach for a picnic.
4. Skytower Observation Deck
A visit to this city wouldn’t be complete without a trip up the iconic sky tower to get some of the best views over Auckland from up high. I’d recommend going around sunset time so you can experience the view during both day and night time!
HOT TIP: Skip the line by pre-booking your tickets for the Skytower Observation Deck online
5. Shakespeare Regional Park
A little further from the city is Whangaparaoa, a picturesque peninsula on Auckland’s North Shore. Here you’ll find the stunning Shakespear Regional Park, which is filled with native bush, rolling hills, and great views over Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf.
HOT TIP: Bring walking shoes and take the Shakespeare Heritage Path, a 4km loop path, for the best views.
6. Waiheke Island
Located just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, Waiheke Island is an absolute must-visit! Filled with world-class vineyards, olive groves, seaside villages and scenic views galore, it the perfect place to take a day trip and soak up some of Auckland’s natural beauty.
HOT TIP: Make your trip to Waiheke Island even more exciting by booking a zipline and native forest tour from Auckland!
7. Mt Victoria Lookout
Not only does Mt Victoria lookout in Devonport offer a fantastic view over Auckland city, it also has a rather fascinating history. At the end of the 19th century, it was used as a military position against a feared Russian invasion, and is home to one of the last remaining disappearing guns in the world.
HOT TIP: Take some time to explore the quaint seaside village of Devonport while you are in the area. Filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and a heritage cinema, there is plenty to see and do there!
8. Auckland from Above
Last but not least, if you want some of the very BEST views in Auckland, you’ve got to see the city from above! Booking a scenic flight or helicopter ride is simply an experience you will not forget.
HOT TIP: I’d recommend booking an Auckland seaplane flight experience. They offer a variety of different options, whether you are after a quick scenic flight or an extended experience- they can even drop you off at a wine tasting!
2021 UPDATE: I wrote this blog post when I first visited Auckland in 2013. At the time, I was convinced that I did not want to move over there. I have now been living in Auckland for over eight years and absolutely LOVE IT!
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Have you visited New Zealand’s biggest city? Do you have any places to add to this list of the best views in Auckland? I’d love to hear in the comments below!
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