Places to visit in Auckland

Tourism near Auckland Airport in New Zealand is a great way to experience the country's beauty. With stunning landscapes, lush forests, and an abundance of activities, Auckland is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Zealand.

From taking part in thrilling water sports like kayaking and sailing, exploring local markets for unique gifts and souvenirs, or simply relaxing on picturesque beaches – there's something for everyone near Auckland Airport.

There are also excellent restaurants serving delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and top-notch accommodations ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury lodges.

Please visit us at getyourguide.com if you want to learn more about exciting adventures in New Zealand.

Auckland: Hobbiton & Waitomo Bus Tour with Festive Lunch

Visit the enchanted Waitomo Caves and the set of The Hobbit films. Start the day off with a full day of sightseeing in Auckland. Prepare to embark on a southern journey aboard a luxury GreatSights coach. As you ride, take in the typical New Zealand landscape of green farmland and undulating hills.

One of the most popular tourist spots in all of New Zealand is undoubtedly the Hobbiton Movie Set. Filming locations for the blockbuster Lord of the Rings and its prequel, The Hobbit, were built on a working farm not far from the town of Matamata.

Visit famous landmarks such as the original Hobbit Holes, the Green Dragon Inn, the Party Tree, and more. If you take a tour, your guide will tell you interesting anecdotes and give you interesting facts about the making of the film.

When you've had your fill of the movies, grab a bite to eat outside the Green Dragon Inn and feast like a faithful hobbit. Then, visit the incredible limestone formations of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, a network of underground tunnels and caves.

Experience an unforgettable boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto, where glowworms sparkle and shine above you as you glide through a pitch-black cavern at the end of your 45-minute guided cave tour.

Following your day of touring these two iconic New Zealand locations, your driver guide will bring you back to Auckland in time for dinner.

Auckland: Whale and Dolphin Watching Half-Day Eco Cruise

Get on board a 65-foot luxury catamaran that's berthed right in the middle of downtown Auckland. Cruise the city's waterways on the "Dolphin Explorer" and take in the sights and sounds from a new perspective. Take a quick trip past some of the most famous companies in Auckland, including the Harbour Bridge, North Head/Devonport, and Rangitoto Island.

The city's waters are frequented by orcas and bottlenose dolphins, so keep an eye out for them. The next step is to travel to the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Experience whales, dolphins, and sea birds in their natural habitats up close.

When it comes to whale-watching, the "Dolphin Explorer" has an unparalleled closeness to the animals. Hear the captain's insightful commentary about the local flora and fauna, gleaned from his 15 years of leading daily trips in the area.

From Auckland: Waiheke Island Wineries' Tour

Beginning in downtown Auckland, a boat ride to Waiheke Island takes 35 minutes. It offers sights of historic Devonport and neighboring Rangitoto Island.

Upon arrival, you and your guide will visit four of the island's top wineries. Enjoy wine tastings at four different wineries, and spend your free time lunching at one of them.

Learn about the island's fascinating history from your knowledgeable guide, and enjoy the sights of its beautiful beaches and undulating vineyards.

After the tour, you can transfer back to the port to catch an afternoon ferry back to Auckland or hang out in the village and walk the 15 minutes back to the ferry.

Waiheke Island: Zipline and Native Forest Adventure Trip

This thrilling, state-of-the-art dual zipline flight over the native forest is offered on Waiheke Island, just 30 minutes by fast ferry from central Auckland, and lasts for three hours.

On your way to the zipline site, where you'll be prepared for one of New Zealand's most exciting eco-activities, you can enjoy a mini-tour of Waiheke's beaches, million-dollar properties, and boutique wineries.

Soar through the air on one of three parallel ziplines that are each more than 200 meters long. Take a tandem flight with a loved one over a working vineyard and beautiful stretches of untouched and regenerating New Zealand bush.

While zipping along, you can take in stunning views of Auckland, Rangitoto, and the Hauraki Gulf. After finishing the third line, you can take a beautiful interpretive stroll back to the welcome center. While doing so, guides tell tales about the Maori and European history of Waiheke and its flora and fauna.

From Auckland: Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Day Trip with Lunch

This tour departs from Auckland for a day trip to New Zealand's most well-known destinations: the Hobbiton Movie Set and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.

Picked up from your downtown Auckland hotel, you'll head south over the scenic Bombay Hills toward the Waikato Region and the Hauraki Plains.

Welcoming you to Matamata and The Shire's Rest, where the Hobbiton Movie Set is located. During your official 2-hour tour of the Movie Set, your guide will help you avoid the crowds.

Experience a guided tour of the 10-acre location and hear fascinating stories about the making of the Hobbiton Movie Set. Check out Bilbo Baggins's Hobbit holes, the Green Dragon, and the Mill. Drink on the house at The Green Dragon Inn with one of their specialty beverages.

Afterward, you'll head to the breathtaking Waitomo Glowworm Caves and have lunch in traditional Kiwi fashion at The Homestead. Interact with other travelers and swap Hobbiton tales on the road to New Zealand. Experience the magic of thousands of glowworms as you silently glide through the caves in a boat.

Most likely, your tour guide will be a direct descendant of the Maori Chief who first discovered the Caves. Admire the stunning scenery as you stroll through the acoustically renowned Cathedral Cove.

The trip back to Auckland passes through some of New Zealand's most breathtaking landscapes. Then it follows the majestic Waikato River back up north. You'll travel by the sacred Maori burial ground of Taupiri. Returning to your lodging at the end of the day marks the end of your day.

Auckland: 9000, 13000, 16000, or 20000-Foot Tandem Skydive

As you climb above Auckland, take in the sights. A door will open at 20,000 feet, 16,000 feet, 13,000 feet, or 9,000 feet (depending on which altitude option you book).

You can freefall up to 85 seconds while strapped to a tandem instructor and taking in New Zealand's breathtaking scenery. Get up to about 200 kilometers per hour, and you'll feel like you're flying. Relax in the tranquility of a gorgeous parachute while taking in the breathtaking scenery from all angles.

Experience the thrill of skydiving in a fun and secure environment. Then, you can get a personalized photo and video package on the spot to relive the whole thing whenever you want.

The 45-minute drive from Parakai to downtown Auckland is quick and straightforward. Planning on bringing along a crew to help out? Everyone on the observation deck can see you touch down safely.

Auckland Harbour 3-Course Dinner Cruise with Welcome Drink

Auckland's waterfront dining on Waitemata Harbor is an experience to be noticed. Learn about the area's history and culture on a 2.5-hour sailing dinner cruise in a casual, friendly, and exciting setting. Explore the city's skyline and other famous landmarks after dark.

Experience the city from the water while listening to the captain's insightful commentary. Help the captain or take the helm and see if you like it. Relax in the open air with a drink and plenty of room to spread out on the seating area above the deck.

Enjoy a three-course meal catered by acclaimed Viaduct eatery Degree while anchored at Westhaven Marina. Choose from a variety of high-quality alcoholic beverages made in the vicinity to go with your meal. After a satisfying meal, take in the sights of the city as the sun goes down.