Auckland

Backpacking Auckland

Information on Auckland, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.

Welcome to the Auckland Region, a land of volcanoes, forested hills, regional parks, beaches, islands and New Zealand’s largest city. Not only does Auckland stretch out into the waters of the Hauraki Gulf, but the whole region encompasses many different landscapes. Known as the “City of Sails”, all around the coast of Auckland you’ll see the water covered in boats. The coastline is a draw for Aucklanders and backpackers with its white sand beaches found in the suburbs. With towering buildings, it can sometimes feel like Auckland is in its own little bubble. Especially because Auckland Central has snippets of everything. There’s all the convenient services, shops, entertainment venues and nightlife, plus, plenty of squares and big green open spaces. The Auckland Domain is the largest of these green areas. A number of walks take you through wooded areas that you would never think could exist in a city! From the downtown Ferry Building, a big orange building easily spotted from the end of Queen Street, you can take a ferry ride to one of the islands of the Hauraki Gulf. Around 50 islands are dotted around the Hauraki Gulf, part of the Pacific Ocean that lies next to Auckland. A highlight is Rangitoto Island, Auckland’s youngest volcano, which offers amazing bush walks over black volcanic rock. For beaches and vineyards, head to Waiheke Island. This island is civilized with bars, activities, fun methods of transport, and relaxing beaches. Moving into the upper suburbs of Auckland, North Shore is the area you arrive in when you cross the Harbor Bridge from Auckland Central. Alternatively, take a quick ferry ride across the water from the downtown Ferry Building. With 20 beaches lining the North Shore coast, you can pretty much take your pick on what water activity you want to do. It’s not uncommon to see paddleboarders and kayakers out on the water. Take the North Shore Coastal walk to make sure you hit all of the beaches. A lot of the beaches on the east coast are especially scenic with the distinct volcanic shaped Rangitoto Island out in the distance.