Top 7 Reasons the Double-Decker Discovery is Auckland’s Most Instagrammable Tour

Introduction

Auckland is full of things to do — from climbing the Sky Tower to sailing across the harbour, from strolling Ponsonby Road to relaxing at Mission Bay. But in the age of social media, travellers want more than just sightseeing; they want experiences worth sharing.

Enter the Vintage Views Double-Decker Discovery Tour. From the top deck of our lovingly restored 1960s London Routemaster bus, Auckland transforms into a moving backdrop of photo opportunities, vintage vibes, and shareable moments.

Here are seven reasons why this tour is not only unforgettable in person but also the most Instagrammable way to see Auckland.

1. The Routemaster Bus Itself 🚍✨

Before the bus even starts moving, you’ve got the perfect shot. The bright red Routemaster, polished chrome accents, and iconic curved lines scream vintage charm. Parked in the CBD, it already draws attention and curious glances — so why not snap that first picture before the ride even begins?

2. Elevated Views From the Top Deck 🌆

Photos hit differently when they’re taken from above. The Routemaster’s top deck offers elevated angles of Auckland’s skyline, bustling streets, and harbour views. Whether it’s the glass towers of the CBD or leafy Parnell lanes, you’re shooting from the best seat in the house.

3. Mission Bay’s Waterfront Magic 🌊

As the tour cruises along Tamaki Drive, Mission Bay unfolds — sandy beach, swaying palms, Rangitoto Island rising in the distance. Capture a wide shot of the coast or a selfie with the waves behind you. Mission Bay is one of Auckland’s most photogenic stops, and the ride there is just as scenic.

4. Ponsonby Style 🎨🍸

Ponsonby isn’t just a neighbourhood; it’s an aesthetic. Colourful villas, murals, chic boutiques, and bustling cafes make for the perfect backdrop. Snap a street-style shot from the bus window, or use Ponsonby’s creative vibe as the canvas for your Instagram story.

5. The Thrill of the Harbour Bridge 🌉

Crossing the Harbour Bridge is a highlight in itself, but doing it from the top deck of a Routemaster? That’s once-in-a-lifetime. Panoramic shots of the skyline, reflections in the Waitematā Harbour, and the adrenaline of rolling across in vintage style make this a golden moment for reels and stories.

6. Parnell & K Road Contrast 🖼️🎶

The leafy charm of Parnell and the eclectic energy of K Rd couldn’t be more different — but both shine from the top deck. It’s the perfect chance to capture Auckland’s diverse character in a single tour: elegant galleries one moment, neon lights and street art the next.

7. A Ride That Turns Heads 🚍📸

Let’s be real: people on the street will stop and stare. The Routemaster is impossible to ignore, and when you’re on board, you’re part of the spectacle. Passengers waving from the top deck? That’s Instagram gold, and it feels as fun as it looks.

More Than Just a Pretty Picture 📲

While it’s easy to focus on the photos, the experience itself is what makes the shots shine. The laughter of your group, the feeling of history under your feet, and the excitement of seeing Auckland differently all come through in your content.

It’s no wonder travellers say this tour feels like stepping into both the past and the future: nostalgia on wheels, rolling through a modern city.

Make Your Day Complete 🌟

The Double-Decker Discovery is just the beginning. Pair it with other top Auckland experiences for a full day of fun:

• Morning coffee at Britomart ☕

• Afternoon exploring the Auckland War Memorial Museum 🏛️

• Evening drinks in Viaduct Harbour 🍸
  For even more ideas, check out our Things To Do in Auckland guide.

Weddings & Events: Instagram Heaven 💍🎉

It’s not just about sightseeing. Our Routemaster is also available for weddings and private hire. Imagine your wedding photos with a double-decker bus as the backdrop, or your team sharing selfies on the way to a corporate event.

👉 More here: Vintage Views Weddings & Events

Practical Info 📍

• Tour Name: Double-Decker Discovery

• Duration: 90 minutes

• Departures: 4 daily

• Tickets: Adults $49 | Children $19

• Pick-Up Point: Customs Street, Auckland CBD

• Book Now: Vintage Views Tours

FAQs

Q: Is the Double-Decker Discovery tour Instagram-friendly?
Absolutely — the Routemaster, Auckland skyline, and key stops like Mission Bay and Ponsonby make it one of the city’s most photogenic tours.

Q: Can I book the bus for a photoshoot or private event?
Yes — it’s available for weddings, branding shoots, corporate hire, and more.

Q: Do you offer family pricing?
Yes — at just $19 per child, it’s one of the best-value family sightseeing options in Auckland.

Q: Where does the tour depart from?
The corner of Customs and Queen Streets in the CBD, just minutes from the cruise terminal.

Conclusion

Instagram photos fade, but the memories last forever. With Vintage Views, you don’t just see Auckland — you experience it in style, share it with the world, and become part of something iconic.

Step aboard, strike a pose, and see the city differently. 🚍✨

👉 Book your seat today: www.vintageviews.co.nz/tours