Handpicked by a Auckland Local Expert, we bring you our guide to 'Breathtaking Locations in Auckland'.
From volcanic craters, historic reserves, stunning stretches of beach and iconic landmarks, Auckland offers an endless supply of eye-catching locations. We've chosen our favourite breathtaking locations to visit in Auckland.
Mount Victoria
Mount Victoria offers panoramic views of Auckland City, Rangitoto Island, the North Shore and the Hauraki Gulf. Starting at the top of the pretty seaside town of Devonport, the steep walk will take about 20 minutes to the summit. Alternatively, you can drive to the top where there is parking available. Mount Victoria Reserve is a great (and free) way to see postcard views of the Auckland region...
Mt Eden
Housing the highest volcano in Auckland, this large park is an icon of the city, offering superb views of the city skyline and a fantastic 50-metre deep crater to explore. Mount Eden Domain is situated just 5km south of the CBD in the suburb of the same name. At its heart is the 196m high Mount Eden volcano, from the summit of which you can get one of the best views in New Zealand, especially a...
Piha Beach
Piha is Auckland' s most famous beach. Situated on Auckland's west coast , this wild and untamed black sandy beach is a favourite with surfers of all skill levels and tourists captivated by its rugged beauty. Piha is split into two beaches by the iconic and much photographed Lion Rock. Sitting on the edge of the Waitakere Ranges, this popular stretch of sand is approximately 45 minutes drive fr...
Waitakere Ranges Regional Park
The Waitakere Ranges Regional Park hug the Auckland region's west coast, and offer a wealth of things to do outdoors. Sandy beaches, foaming waterfalls, a plethora of walking tracks plus camping facilities in the forest - it's a nature lover's paradise. Hike through the lush woodland to find the Kitekite Falls, Fairy Falls and Karekare Falls. Go birdspotting for tui, kaka and kereru, or get luc...
Oneroa Beach
Oneroa is the main town of Waiheke Island, a 35-40 minute ferry from downtown Auckland. The pretty town has a number of arts and craft shops, souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants that take avantage of the stunning beach views. The town of Oneroa also offers stunning views of the white sandy beach below and on clear days, views of the Coromandel Peninsula in the far distance. Oneroa i...
One Tree Hill Domain
Large reserve in Epsom, Auckland, with 183m volcano and historically important Maori connections, once the largest 'pa' in the city. Fantastic views from the top. One Tree Hill Domain, also called Maungakiekie, lies in the middle of the Tamaki isthmus and, excluding the mighty Rangitoto, is the largest intact crater in Auckland. From the top, you can see both of Auckland's harbours, and its ...
Muriwai Gannet Colony
August 2023 Update - due to storm damage tracks accessing the Muriwai Gannet colony are temporarily closed. Muriwai Gannet Colony is situated in Muriwai Regional Park, a 40 minute drive west of downtown Auckland. Although Muriwai Regional Park is home to many species of birds, it's the Gannet Colony that attracts the most visitors. Two viewing platforms provide excellent vantage po...
Karekare Beach
Karekare Beach gained wider attention due to its starring role in the 1993 film The Piano. The secluded black sandy beach is situated on the west coast of Auckland, 35 kilometres from downtown Auckland. The more popular Piha Beach that features the iconic Lion Rock is close by, and is a favourite amongst the surfing community is close by. However on the way to Piha beach, it's well w...
Sky Tower
Situated in central Auckland, the Sky Tower is the tallest man-made structure in the country. The tower stands at 328 metres and has stunning views across the Auckland skyline and beyond by day and a brightly lit panorama by night. Visitors will travel up the tower in a glass fronted lift and can choose to admire the view from any of three platforms. Thrill seekers can either walk around ...
North Head Historic Reserve
North Head Historic Reserve is an enjoyable and scenic 20 minute walk from Devonport Ferry Terminal. The walk is an opportunity to enjoy views of the Hauraki Gulf and the Auckland skyline. North Head is full of history and gorgeous views of Cheltenham beach, Waitemata Harbour, Auckland city, Mount Victoria Reserve and the Hauraki Gulf. The 20 minute walk to the summit includes a s...