See Auckland Differently: Why the Double-Decker Discovery Tour is the City’s Best Kept Secret
Introduction
Every visitor to Auckland asks the same question: What’s the best way to see the city? Some choose the ferry to Devonport, others climb the Sky Tower, and some wander through Ponsonby’s boutique streets. But if you want to take in Auckland’s most iconic highlights in one unforgettable experience, there’s only one answer: the Vintage Views Double-Decker Discovery Tour.
From the top deck of our lovingly restored 1960s London Routemaster bus, you’ll see Auckland’s skyline, harbour, and neighbourhoods like never before. This isn’t just sightseeing — it’s stepping into history while discovering the city’s modern charm.
Why a Routemaster? The Story of an Icon 🚍
The Routemaster bus is as much a symbol of London as Big Ben or red phone boxes. First introduced in 1956, these buses were designed to be durable, stylish, and practical. With their distinctive curves and open rear platform, they became beloved by commuters and visitors alike.
By the early 2000s, most Routemasters had been retired from service. But rather than fading away, they transformed into icons of heritage, snapped up by collectors and enthusiasts across the globe.
Our Routemaster was carefully restored and shipped to New Zealand, where it now serves a new purpose: showcasing Auckland in a way no other vehicle can. Today, it’s the only Routemaster of its kind operating city sightseeing tours in New Zealand.
The Double-Decker Discovery Tour: Highlights of Auckland in 90 Minutes
Our flagship product, the Double-Decker Discovery Tour, condenses the very best of Auckland into a 90-minute loop. Starting in the CBD at Customs Street near Queen Street, the tour takes you on a carefully designed route that balances iconic landmarks with cultural and scenic highlights.
🌊 Mission Bay
Cruise along Tamaki Drive to Auckland’s most beloved waterfront destination. Mission Bay’s sandy beach and sweeping views of Rangitoto Island are pure Kiwi summer magic.
🖼️ Parnell
Leafy and historic, Parnell is Auckland’s oldest suburb, filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and heritage villas. From the top deck, you see the neighbourhood’s beauty unfold above the treeline.
🌉 Grafton Bridge & Karangahape Road (K Rd)
Crossing Grafton Bridge gives passengers panoramic views of Auckland’s valleys and skyline. Then it’s on to K Rd — a hub of creativity, street art, and cultural energy.
🎶 Ponsonby
Trendy and vibrant, Ponsonby is known for its nightlife, colourful architecture, and buzzing café scene. From above, you see the neighbourhood’s energy come alive.
✨ The Harbour Bridge
The climax of the journey: soaring across Auckland’s Harbour Bridge. The combination of sea views, skyline silhouettes, and the thrill of being in a Routemaster makes this a truly unforgettable moment.
Why Choose Vintage Views Over Other Tours?
Auckland has hop-on hop-off buses, private vans, and walking tours. But Vintage Views offers something none of the others can:
Authenticity – Our bus is the real deal, an original Routemaster with history in every detail.
Affordability – At just $49 for adults and $19 for children, it’s one of Auckland’s best-value sightseeing options.
Atmosphere – Riding in a Routemaster feels special. From the red exterior to the top deck views, it’s theatre on wheels.
Convenience – Central CBD pick-up, four daily departures, and a loop that captures all the highlights.
Weddings, Corporate Hire & Private Events 💍🍾
The Routemaster isn’t just for sightseeing. Its vintage charm makes it the perfect wedding vehicle — imagine arriving at your ceremony in a double-decker London bus! It’s also a hit for corporate events and private hires, where transport doubles as entertainment.
👉 Learn more about our Weddings & Events options.
More Than Just a Tour: A Gateway to Auckland
We see ourselves as more than a tour company. Vintage Views is part of Auckland’s wider tourism ecosystem, helping travellers discover the city inside and out. That’s why we created our Things To Do in Auckland Guide — from the Sky Tower and Auckland Museum to hidden laneways and local eateries.
By combining your Routemaster ride with these attractions, you can build the perfect day in Auckland.
Practical Info for Visitors
📍 Pick-Up Point: Customs Street (near Queen Street), Auckland CBD
🕒 Duration: 90 minutes
⏰ Departures: 4 times daily
🎟️ Tickets: $49 Adults | $19 Children
🌐 Book here: Vintage Views Tours
FAQs
Q: How is Vintage Views different from other Auckland sightseeing buses?
Our Routemaster is authentic, vintage, and the only one of its kind in New Zealand. It’s not just transport — it’s an experience.
Q: Can families bring children?
Yes! Kids love climbing the stairs to the top deck, and at just $19, it’s one of the best-value family activities in Auckland.
Q: Do you offer private hire?
Absolutely. Our Routemaster is available for weddings, corporate events, and private functions.
Q: Is it suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes — our CBD pick-up point is just a short walk from the cruise terminal.
Conclusion: See Auckland Differently
Auckland is a city of beauty, energy, and contrasts. But the way you experience it makes all the difference. From the top deck of a vintage Routemaster, everyday streets turn into postcard moments, and iconic landmarks feel alive with character.
At Vintage Views, we don’t just take you on a tour — we give you a memory.
👉 Book your Double-Decker Discovery Tour today: www.vintageviews.co.nz/tours