What are the most beautiful places in Auckland?

Don’t miss Piha Beach, Rangitoto Island summit, Mission Bay, Mount Eden, Waiheke vineyards, Long Bay Regional Park, the Auckland Domain Wintergardens, Cornwall Park, and Mount Victoria in Devonport.

Where are the best viewpoints in Auckland?

Top viewpoints include Mount Eden/Maungawhau, Mount Victoria, the Sky Tower observation deck, and Rangitoto Island’s summit track.

Which Auckland beaches are best for scenery?

Piha’s black sands offer dramatic west-coast scenery, while Mission Bay and Takapuna provide classic harbour and Rangitoto views with easy access.

Can I see Auckland’s most beautiful spots on a bus tour?

Yes. Vintage Views’ heritage double-decker offers panoramic city and coastal views, with curated routes that highlight iconic lookouts and waterfront vistas.

Are these scenic places free to visit?

Most viewpoints and parks—like Mount Eden, Cornwall Park, and Mount Victoria—are free. Ferry-accessed sites (e.g., Rangitoto) and attractions may have separate costs.

What’s the best time of day for photos in Auckland?

Golden hour around sunrise or sunset delivers the best light, especially at Mount Victoria, Mission Bay, and the west-coast beaches.

Is the Vintage Views Routemaster suitable for groups?

Yes. The Routemaster caters to groups for sightseeing and private hire, offering elevated views and nostalgic style ideal for memorable outings.

Rolling Through Time: Why Auckland’s Routemaster Tour Is More Than Just Sightseeing

26 Sept

Written By Benjamin Dale

When you think of Auckland, iconic images spring to mind: the sparkling Waitematā Harbour, the soaring Sky Tower, the lively hum of Ponsonby, and the sweeping views from Mission Bay. But what if you could experience all of these from the top deck of a lovingly restored 1960s London Routemaster double-decker bus? That’s exactly what Vintage Views offers with the Double-Decker Discovery Tour.

This isn’t just another sightseeing trip — it’s a chance to step back in time, feel the nostalgia of classic travel, and see Auckland from a fresh perspective.

The Routemaster Legacy: A Moving Piece of History

The Routemaster isn’t just a bus. It’s a design icon that shaped how millions experienced city life in London. Known for its timeless red finish, open platform, and distinctive style, the Routemaster represents a golden age of travel — when journeys were as much about experience as destination.

By bringing this bus to Auckland’s streets, Vintage Views has created something truly unique: a blend of British history and New Zealand’s stunning cityscape. Every polished handle, every worn seat, and every hum of the engine connects passengers to a story that began decades ago and continues today.

The Route: From Waterfront to Bridge

The 90-minute loop tour is carefully designed to showcase Auckland’s best-loved highlights:

Central CBD Pickup — Start your journey in the heart of Auckland, where the energy of the city surrounds you.
Mission Bay — Cruise along the waterfront and enjoy sweeping views of Rangitoto Island, the sparkling harbour, and sandy beaches.
Parnell Road — Wind through leafy, boutique-lined streets rich with culture, art galleries, and historic charm.
Grafton Bridge & K Rd — A peek into Auckland’s vibrant urban character and architecture.
Ponsonby Road — Trendy cafes, nightlife, and street culture make this stop a favourite for many.
The Harbour Bridge — No Auckland tour is complete without the thrill of crossing the bridge and seeing the city skyline open before you.

The route is a perfect mix of heritage, scenery, and culture, ensuring every passenger experiences Auckland from multiple angles.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Plenty of sightseeing tours will take you around Auckland. But the Vintage Views Routemaster Tour offers something no other operator can: the chance to see a modern city from a vintage lens.

Immersive atmosphere — The classic bus itself becomes part of the attraction.
Iconic photography — From inside and outside, the Routemaster is Instagram gold.
Family-friendly pricing — At just $49 for adults and $19 for children, it’s an affordable way for families to see Auckland together.
Multiple departures daily — Flexible times mean you can easily fit it into your day.

Perfect for Visitors and Locals Alike

Whether you’re in Auckland for the first time or have lived here your whole life, riding on a Routemaster changes the way you experience the city. Visitors will love the convenience and storytelling. Locals will rediscover familiar streets in a way that feels entirely new.

Book Your Seat Today

Seats on the Double-Decker Discovery Tour are limited, and demand is growing as more people discover this unforgettable ride.

👉 Book now at vintageviews.co.nz/tours and be part of a world-first experience in Auckland.

Benjamin Dale