The Ultimate Guide to Things To Do in Auckland (2025 Edition)
Planning your Auckland trip? Discover the best things to do in Auckland — from free attractions and family adventures to scenic tours aboard a vintage Routemaster bus.
🌆 Welcome to Auckland — City of Sails
Auckland isn’t just New Zealand’s largest city — it’s a vibrant hub of culture, history, and stunning natural beauty. Known as the City of Sails, Auckland offers something for everyone: family outings, scenic adventures, nightlife, and world-class attractions.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or exploring as a local, this guide covers the best things to do in Auckland in 2025, including free experiences, family-friendly outings, adult adventures, and must-see scenic spots.
💡 Want to see the city in style? Experience Auckland aboard our iconic 1963 London Routemaster bus, the only one of its kind in New Zealand. Book your vintage sightseeing tour at VintageViews.co.nz.
🆓 Free Things To Do in Auckland
Looking for budget-friendly fun? Auckland is packed with free attractions.
1. Climb Mt Eden (Maungawhau)
A short hike to the summit reveals panoramic views of Auckland’s skyline, harbour, and volcanic crater.
Perfect for sunrise or sunset photography.
2. Wander the Auckland Domain & Wintergardens
The city’s oldest park, home to the Wintergardens — glasshouses filled with exotic plants.
Free and open daily.
3. Mission Bay Beach
Relax on golden sands, enjoy the fountain, and take in views of Rangitoto Island.
4. One Tree Hill & Cornwall Park
A mix of Māori history, volcanic landscapes, and family-friendly picnic spots.
5. Takapuna Beach
North Shore favourite with views of Rangitoto. Ideal for walking and swimming.
✅ Snippet Answer (40 words): The best free things to do in Auckland include climbing Mt Eden, visiting the Auckland Domain Wintergardens, relaxing on Mission Bay Beach, exploring One Tree Hill and Cornwall Park, and walking Takapuna Beach with views of Rangitoto Island.
👨👩👧 Things To Do in Auckland with Family
Auckland is made for families, with activities that balance fun and education.
6. Auckland Zoo
Home to 135 species including elephants, lions, and native kiwi birds.
7. MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology)
Interactive exhibits, vintage planes, and working trams.
8. Kelly Tarlton’s SEA LIFE Aquarium
Penguin colonies, stingray encounters, and underwater tunnels.
9. Western Springs Park
Perfect for feeding ducks, cycling, or a relaxed picnic.
10. Devonport Ferry Ride
A quick 15-minute ride that kids love, with Mount Victoria waiting at the other end.
💡 For family sightseeing without the hassle, try our vintage double-decker tours at VintageViews.co.nz.
🍸 Fun Things To Do in Auckland for Adults
From nightlife to adrenaline adventures, Auckland is buzzing with adult-friendly activities.
11. Ponsonby Road Nightlife
Cocktail bars, live music, and rooftop lounges.
12. Waiheke Island Wine Tours
A short ferry ride takes you to world-class vineyards.
13. Sky Tower SkyJump & SkyWalk
Leap 192 metres or walk around the tower’s edge.
14. Craft Beer Breweries
Garage Project, Brothers Beer, and Urbanaut offer tours and tastings.
15. Spark Arena Shows
Auckland’s premier venue for concerts and comedy.
🌅 Beautiful Places in Auckland
Some spots are simply unforgettable.
16. Rangitoto Island
A volcanic island just 25 minutes by ferry. Hike to the summit for panoramic Gulf views.
17. Piha Beach
Black sand surf beach, popular with photographers and surfers alike.
18. Waiheke Island
Rolling hills, vineyards, and golden beaches.
19. Mount Victoria, Devonport
Stunning views of the harbour and skyline at sunset.
20. Long Bay Regional Park
Coastal trails and sandy beaches, perfect for a day trip.
🚌 Auckland Sightseeing Bus — A Unique Experience
For many, the best way to see Auckland is aboard a sightseeing bus. But why settle for ordinary when you can ride a 1963 London Routemaster double-decker?
At Vintage Views, we offer:
5.5-hour panoramic sightseeing tours of Auckland’s highlights.
Private charters for weddings, events, and corporate outings.
Flexible packages starting from $1,580.
✨ From Mission Bay to the Sky Tower, you’ll experience Auckland in style, elevated above the crowds with sweeping views from the upper deck.
👉 Book your seat at VintageViews.co.nz.
Why a Classic Routemaster Bus Is the Ultimate Wedding Transport in Auckland
Planning your dream wedding is all about creating moments that last a lifetime — from the grand entrance to the joyful celebrations with your guests. One detail that can transform your wedding day is your choice of transport. While most couples think of limousines or vintage cars, more and more brides and grooms in Auckland are choosing something truly unforgettable: a classic 1963 London Routemaster double-decker bus.
At Vintage Views, we specialise in wedding transport that turns heads, delights guests, and creates one-of-a-kind photo opportunities. Here’s why our Routemaster wedding bus is becoming Auckland’s favourite wedding day experience.
1. Make a Grand Entrance
Arriving at your ceremony in a towering red double-decker is a moment your guests will never forget. With space for your entire bridal party, or even a group of excited guests, our Routemaster combines the charm of vintage style with the impact of a truly unique arrival.
2. The Perfect Wedding Photo Backdrop
Weddings are full of magical photo opportunities, but few props can match the visual appeal of a classic Routemaster bus. Whether it’s the bridal party waving from the top deck, a romantic kiss by the front grille, or the entire guest group gathered outside, the bus guarantees wedding photos that stand out in every album.
3. Practical Guest Transport
Auckland weddings often involve multiple venues — a ceremony, a photo location, then a reception. Coordinating guests can be stressful, but our Routemaster solves the problem. With seating for up to 64 people, you can keep friends and family together, on time, and relaxed. It’s stylish, fun, and practical all at once.
4. Customised to Match Your Day
Our Routemaster isn’t just transport — it’s part of your wedding story. From elegant ribbons and personalised signage to full bus dressing, we tailor the experience to match your theme. Couples can also choose half-day or full-day packages, with options that include photo sessions, personalised décor, and even extra coaches for larger groups.
5. A Unique Experience for Guests
Your wedding isn’t only about the couple — it’s also about creating memories for everyone who attends. Guests love climbing aboard a piece of British history, and the atmosphere on the bus sets the tone for a day filled with celebration and joy.
Why Choose Vintage Views for Your Auckland Wedding?
At Vintage Views, we’re proud to offer Auckland’s only Routemaster wedding bus. Restored to its classic glory, our 1963 London double-decker is as reliable as it is beautiful. With professional drivers, flexible packages starting at just $1,580, and a focus on making your wedding day seamless, we help you add that extra sparkle to your big day.
Ready to Book Your Wedding Bus?
Availability is limited — especially on weekends and peak wedding months. Don’t miss your chance to make your wedding day unforgettable.
Picking Up ‘Dorothy’: Our Vintage Routemaster’s Grand Journey from Christchurch to Auckland
It’s not every day that history rolls into town—yet there she was: our cherished Routemaster, poised in Christchurch, ready for the epic road ahead. Built in the heyday of British design, this iconic red double-decker has travelled far from her London roots and found herself driven north through New Zealand’s South Island.
A London Legend Reborn
When London’s last Routemasters rolled away in 2005, few could have predicted they’d one day traverse Aotearoa. Yet here she is—operational, majestic, and undeniably timeless. Picking her up in Christchurch wasn’t merely a handover; it was a reclamation of history, restored by enthusiasts who knew instantly she belonged again on the road.
From Earthquake to Elegance
Christchurch’s scars were fresh. Buildings stood silent, roads bore cracks, and yet amidst this rebirth, our Routemaster stood proud. Handshakes were exchanged, paperwork signed, and our journey North began—not just a drive, but a moving tribute.
Scenic Stopover: Kaikōura’s Coastal Beauty
Our first real pause came in Kaikōura. Against a backdrop of jagged cliffs and Pacific waves, the Routemaster glowed – a vintage relic framed by nature’s grandeur. Tourists paused, cameras clicked, and history met geography in a single breath.
Onward, To Auckland
With coastal charm behind us and horizons ahead, that iconic engine rumbled on. She’s more than a bus—we’re not just moving wheels but chapters of nostalgia across the North Island. Stay tuned for photos and stories of her triumphant arrival in Auckland.
Let’s Keep Rolling
Want behind-the-scenes glimpses of her journey or the restoration stories that brought her back to life? Let me know—I’d be happy to share.
Step Back in Time – Hire Auckland’s Only Vintage London Double-Decker Bus
It all begins with an idea.
Introduction
There are buses, and then there are icons. Our 1963 London Routemaster double-decker isn’t just transport—it’s history on wheels. Vintage View brings a slice of London charm to Auckland, offering unforgettable journeys for weddings, events, tours, and private charters.
Why Choose a Routemaster?
A timeless classic: Built in 1963, our bus carries decades of stories.
Unique in New Zealand: The only Routemaster of its kind available for hire in Auckland.
Perfect for special occasions: Weddings, corporate events, birthdays, and sightseeing.
Wedding & Event Hire
Imagine arriving at your wedding in a red London icon or hosting guests on a rolling celebration with panoramic views of Auckland. Our Routemaster adds character and charm that no standard coach can match.
Tours with a Twist
Whether you’re planning a private Auckland tour, a scenic charter, or a group outing, Vintage View transforms a journey into an experience.
Book Your Vintage Experience
Spaces are limited—our Routemaster is in high demand.
Why a Vintage Double-Decker Bus Is the Perfect Wedding Transport in Auckland
It all begins with an idea.
Introduction
Your wedding day deserves more than ordinary. With Vintage View’s 1963 London Routemaster, your transport becomes a show-stopping feature that guests will talk about for years.
Stand Out in Style
Forget the limos—imagine pulling up in a gleaming red double-decker, a symbol of romance, nostalgia, and fun. Perfect for:
Bridal party arrivals
Guest shuttles
Post-ceremony photo shoots
Practical Meets Magical
Our Routemaster isn’t just beautiful; it’s practical too:
Seats 60 passengers comfortably
Keeps your guests together
Offers vintage charm
Iconic Photos Guaranteed
From sweeping Auckland harbour backdrops to intimate wedding gardens, our Routemaster doubles as the perfect prop for your wedding photography.
Book Your Wedding Bus Today
Availability is limited for peak wedding season.
Corporate Events with a Twist – Hire Auckland’s Vintage Routemaster Bus
It all begins with an idea.
Introduction
Corporate transport doesn’t have to be dull. Vintage View offers companies in Auckland a way to make an impression with our vintage double-decker bus—perfect for team events, brand activations, and client entertainment.
Why Businesses Choose Vintage View
Memorable branding opportunity: Wrap the bus in your company’s colours or message.
Team bonding: Create an atmosphere of fun and camaraderie.
Unique client experience: Impress partners with a ride on an international icon.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Conferences & expos
Staff parties & Christmas events
Product launches
Film & advertising shoots
Showcase Your Brand on the Move
Our Routemaster draws attention wherever it goes—making it the ultimate moving billboard during your event.
Ready to Book?
Make your next corporate gathering stand out.
Auckland Sightseeing – Experience the City on a Vintage Double-Decker
It all begins with an idea.
Introduction
See Auckland like never before—aboard a piece of history. Vintage View offers private charters and tours on our restored 1963 London Routemaster, blending nostalgia with modern comfort.
The Ultimate Auckland Experience
Ride past:
The Sky Tower and Viaduct Harbour
Mission Bay’s beaches
Historic Parnell & Ponsonby
The Auckland Domain and War Memorial Museum
Why Choose Vintage View for Sightseeing?
Elevated upper-deck views
Spacious seating for groups
Unforgettable atmosphere and photo opportunities
Ideal for Groups & Visitors
Whether it’s family reunions, school outings, or international visitors, our Routemaster turns a city tour into a memory-making adventure.
Book Your Private Tour
Create your own custom Auckland route or let us guide you through the city’s highlights.