Explore Auckland: A Week-Long Itinerary from May 15 to May 22, 2025

Day 1: City Sightseeing

Auckland, New Zealand on May 15, 2025

9:00 AM

Sky Tower

Visit the iconic Sky Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Auckland from 328 meters high. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Hauraki Gulf.
NZD32, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Auckland Art Gallery

Explore New Zealand's premier art museum, showcasing an impressive collection of national and international art, including both historic and contemporary pieces.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Breakfast at Federal Delicatessen

Enjoy a delicious brunch at this popular eatery known for its hearty breakfasts and classic New York-style deli food.
NZD25, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Viaduct Harbour

Stroll along the vibrant Viaduct Harbour, filled with restaurants, shops, and stunning views of the waterfront, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Free, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Wynyard Quarter

Explore the revitalized Wynyard Quarter, with its parks, markets, and eateries surrounded by beautiful waterfront views.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Glass Goose Bar & Grill

Dine at The Glass Goose for a vibrant atmosphere and contemporary Kiwi dishes, enjoying locally-sourced ingredients in a beautiful setting.
NZD45, 1.5 hours

Day 2: Wine Tasting Adventure

Waiheke Island, New Zealand on May 16, 2025

8:30 AM

Ferry to Waiheke Island

Catch an early ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island, enjoying gorgeous views of the harbor during the 40-minute ride.
NZD42 round trip, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Breakfast at The Peppertree Restaurant

Savor a delightful breakfast at The Peppertree, known for its stunning outdoor seating and fresh, local ingredients.
NZD30, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Wine Tour

Embark on a guided wine tour visiting 3-4 renowned vineyards, sampling some of the best wines Waiheke has to offer, surrounded by spectacular landscapes.
NZD150, 5 hours

3:30 PM

Lunch at Te Whau Vineyard

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Te Whau Vineyard, which boasts stunning views along with a fantastic menu featuring local produce.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Explore Oneroa Beach

Take a relaxing walk along Oneroa Beach, a lovely spot to end your day with beautiful sunsets and a serene atmosphere.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Casita Miro

Dine at Casita Miro, famed for its diverse tapas and incredible wine, creating a vibrant Mediterranean experience in the heart of Waiheke.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Island Hiking

Rangitoto Island, New Zealand on May 17, 2025

8:00 AM

Ferry to Rangitoto Island

Start your day with a ferry ride to Rangitoto Island, a volcanic island that offers striking views and walking tracks.
NZD30 round trip, 45 minutes

9:00 AM

Breakfast on the ferry

Bring along a packed breakfast or grab a coffee and pastry from Auckland before boarding the ferry to enjoy on your journey.
NZD15, 30 minutes

9:30 AM

Hike to the Summit

Hike the 6 km track to the summit of Rangitoto for stunning panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland skyline.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Explore Lava Caves

Discover the fascinating lava caves on the island, a unique geological feature that illustrates Rangitoto's volcanic history.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at the Rangitoto Island Café

Enjoy a charming lunch at the island café, offering light meals and cold drinks in a casual atmosphere.
NZD20, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Return Ferry to Auckland

Catch the ferry back to Auckland, reflecting on the natural beauty you've just experienced.
Included in the round trip, 45 minutes

4:00 PM

Explore the Auckland Domain

Visit the expansive Auckland Domain, home to beautiful gardens and the Auckland War Memorial Museum, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Sidart

Experience an extraordinary dining experience at Sidart, known for its avant-garde menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and stunning views.
NZD80, 2 hours

Day 4: Beach Day

Piha, New Zealand on May 18, 2025

8:00 AM

Drive to Piha Beach

Take a scenic 45-minute drive into the Waitakere Ranges to reach the stunning Piha Beach, famous for its black sand and surf.
Free, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Breakfast at The Piha Cafe

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with ocean views at The Piha Cafe, known for its fresh menu and healthy options.
NZD25, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Beach Activities

Spend your morning sunbathing, swimming, or surfing at this breathtaking beach, renowned for its stunning views and rugged coastline.
Free, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Impact Kitchen

Relax over a healthy lunch at The Impact Kitchen, serving wholesome dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Hike to Lion Rock

Take a short hike to Lion Rock for stunning views of Piha and the coastline, an iconic feature of the area.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Relax at Piha Beach

Spend some more time enjoying the beach before wrapping up the day.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Piha Refinery

End your day with a tasty dinner at The Piha Refinery, known for its casual setting and delicious menu showcasing local produce.
NZD40, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Nature Exploration

Waitakere Ranges, New Zealand on May 19, 2025

8:00 AM

Hike in Waitakere Ranges

Begin your morning with a guided hike through the Waitakere Ranges, immersed in lush forest and stunning waterfalls.
NZD50, 3 hours

11:00 AM

Breakfast at The Hiking Club

Enjoy a hearty breakfast after your hike, featuring fresh ingredients and energizing options to refuel.
NZD25, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Visit the Arataki Visitor Centre

Stop by the Arataki Visitor Centre to learn about the local flora and fauna and enjoy beautiful views of the forests and coastline.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at the cafe

Grab a light lunch at the café located within the visitor center, offering local dishes and refreshments.
NZD20, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Karekare Beach

Visit the scenic Karekare Beach, famous for its dramatic scenery and beautiful black sand.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Return Drive to Auckland

Drive back to Auckland, allowing your mind to reflect on the nature you've experienced.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Depot Eatery

Savor a local dining experience at Depot Eatery, known for its casual ambiance and seafood-rich menu.
NZD50, 1.5 hours

Day 6: Coastal Exploration

Devonport, New Zealand on May 20, 2025

9:00 AM

Ferry to Devonport

Take a scenic ferry ride to the charming seaside village of Devonport, known for its boutique shops and cafes.
NZD20 round trip, 30 minutes

9:30 AM

Breakfast at The Refuel Cafe

Start your day with a fresh breakfast at Refuel Cafe, recognized for its cozy ambiance and hearty dishes.
NZD25, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore Devonport Village

Wander through charming Devonport Village, filled with boutique shops, historic architecture, and coastal views.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Manuka Cafe

Enjoy lunch at Manuka Cafe, offering a diverse menu with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
NZD30, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit North Head Historic Reserve

Explore the North Head Historic Reserve, offering fascinating military history and panoramic views of the Auckland skyline.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Ferry back to Auckland

Take the ferry back to Auckland, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Included in the round trip, 30 minutes

6:00 PM

Dinner at Kermadec Ocean Fresh

Indulge in a delicious seafood dinner at Kermadec, known for its fresh catch and stunning ocean views.
NZD70, 2 hours

Day 7: Wrap Up Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand on May 21, 2025

9:00 AM

Auckland War Memorial Museum

Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum to learn about New Zealand's war history and its unique cultural heritage.
NZD25, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Breakfast at Ahi Restaurant

Enjoy an innovative breakfast at Ahi, famed for its seasonal menu and locally sourced ingredients.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Shopping at Queen Street

Spend some time shopping on Queen Street, Auckland's main shopping artery filled with various shops and local boutiques.
Free, 2.5 hours

3:00 PM

Lunch at Ekim Burgers

Treat yourself to a casual lunch at Ekim, known for its gourmet burgers and relaxed atmosphere.
NZD25, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Relax at Albert Park

Take a leisurely walk through Albert Park, a beautiful green space located in the heart of the city.
Free, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Grove

Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Grove, celebrated for its elegant dishes and fine dining experience.
NZD100, 2 hours