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.

The Story Behind Auckland’s Iconic Routemaster: From London Streets to Kiwi Shores

28 Sept

Written By Benjamin Dale

Introduction
When you picture London in the 1960s, chances are you imagine Big Ben, red phone boxes, and the iconic Routemaster double-decker bus rumbling down the streets. More than just transport, the Routemaster became a global cultural icon — a rolling piece of history that symbolised Britain’s energy, design, and personality.

Now, one of these classic machines has found a new home in Auckland. At Vintage Views, we’ve restored a genuine Routemaster and brought it back to life as a sightseeing experience like no other. It’s not just a bus ride — it’s a living piece of heritage that connects past and present.

The Routemaster Legacy

The Routemaster was first introduced in 1956. It quickly became a staple of London life — renowned for its durability, unique styling, and open rear platform that allowed passengers to hop on and off with ease. For decades, millions of people rode these buses daily.

Over time, Routemasters were retired from regular service, replaced by modern double-deckers. Yet their charm never faded. Collectors and enthusiasts around the world worked to preserve them, ensuring their legacy lived on.

Our Restoration Journey

Bringing a Routemaster to New Zealand wasn’t simple. It required:

Sourcing authentic parts to keep the vehicle’s character intact.
Engineering upgrades to meet modern NZ road standards.
Cosmetic restoration — from repainting the iconic red to refurbishing the original seating.

It took countless hours of dedication, but the result is a vehicle that’s both faithful to its heritage and ready for modern use.

Why It Matters

A bus may just seem like transport — but the Routemaster offers something deeper. It creates a sense of theatre, nostalgia, and excitement. Whether you grew up in London or you’re stepping aboard for the first time, it feels special.

For Auckland, it’s more than a novelty — it’s a way of seeing the city through a new lens. From the top deck, everyday streets and landmarks feel elevated, literally and figuratively.

The Double-Decker Discovery Tour

Our flagship product, the 90-minute Double-Decker Discovery Tour, brings together Auckland’s highlights:

Waterfront drive to Mission Bay
Leafy charm of Parnell Road
Cultural colour of K Rd and Ponsonby
Thrill of crossing the Harbour Bridge
Sweeping views of Sky Tower and Rangitoto

It’s sightseeing with character, offering more than just a checklist of landmarks — it’s an experience.

Why Vintage Views Stands Out

Authenticity: You’re on a real Routemaster, not a generic bus.
Accessibility: Just $49 for adults, $19 for kids.
Convenience: Central CBD pickup, four departures daily.
Atmosphere: Step aboard and step back in time.

Conclusion
From the streets of London to the harbours of Auckland, the Routemaster story continues. Vintage Views isn’t just about showing you the city — it’s about connecting you with history while creating unforgettable new memories.

👉 Book your tour today at Vintage Views Tours
👉 Explore more in our Things To Do in Auckland Guide

Benjamin Dale