Zoe RocheDid you know that the Sky Tower in Auckland is the tallest structure in the entire Southern Hemisphere?
Walking on the ledges of its peak is actually a popular summer activity in the city, but that’s just one of many to enjoy in Auckland. In this article, we unravel the list of summer activities that capture the essence of an Auckland summer.
So, whether you’re a local seeking new adventures or a visitor eager to dive into the heart of Kiwi culture, let this guide be your compass. Auckland’s summer is calling. Let the adventures begin!
- Explore Auckland Botanic Gardens Sculpture Trail
- Ascend Auckland Sky Tower's Heights
- Discover Auckland War Memorial Museum’s Cool Retreat
- Embark on a Animal Fun at the Auckland Zoo
- Escape to Butterfly Creek's Tropical Paradise
- Conquer Enchanted Forest Mini Golf in a Picturesque Setting
- Indulge in Gourmet Delights at Giapo
- Explore Nature's Wonders at Hunua Ranges Regional Park
- Dive into Marine Marvels at Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium
- Experience Family Fun at Matakana Country Park
- Master the Waves at Muriwai Beach with Surf Lessons
- Savor Summer at Mission Bay's Sun-Kissed Shore
- Kayak Adventure to Rangitoto Island's Shores
- Enjoy an Outdoor Movie Night Under the Stars at Silo Park
- Soar to New Heights with Skydive Auckland Ltd.
- Camp under the Stars at Tawhitokino Campground
- Have the Perfect Summer Vacation at Waiheke Island
- Sail into Summer Bliss on Waitemata Harbour
Explore Auckland Botanic Gardens Sculpture Trail
Address: 102 Hill Road, The Gardens, Auckland 2105, New Zealand
Phone Number: +64 9 267 1457
Hours: Open everyday from 8 am to 8 pm
You can start your summer with a bit of art set in nature by embarking on a leisurely stroll through the Auckland Botanic Gardens Sculpture Trail. By walking on the 2km long path, you get to immerse yourself in an outdoor gallery.
This collection is made up of over 20 captivating artworks from different artists both from the city and abroad. We suggest you elevate the experience by exploring the rest of the gardens.
| Pro Tip: For a more immersive feeling, make sure you stay up to date on the many programs and events the Auckland Botanic Gardens offer. Maybe engage in workshops, family-friendly activities, or even their complimentary guided walks |
Ascend Auckland Sky Tower’s Heights
Address: Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Phone Number: +64 9 363 6000
Hours:
- Open from Monday to Thursday from 9:30 am to 8 pm
- Open from Friday to Sunday from 9:30 am to 10 pm
You can rise to the occasion at the Auckland Sky Tower, literally. It’s the tallest building in the entire Southern hemisphere of the world. You get to reach new heights at the Auckland Sky Tower, standing proudly at 328 meters.
For most people, the main event is climbing to the Observation Deck and getting treated to panoramic views of the Auckland skyline, but for dare devils, you can test your nerves on the glass floor offering a dizzying view of the busy streets below.
| Pro Tip: For an even more adrenaline-pumping experience, test how brave you are by going outside on the Sky Walk that encircles the platform or bungee jump on the Sky Jump, from 192 meters. |
Discover Auckland War Memorial Museum’s Cool Retreat
Address: Parnell, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Phone Number: +64 9 309 0443
Hours:
- Open on Monday and from Wednesday to Friday from 10 am to 5 pm
- Open on Tuesday from 10 am to 8:30 pm
- Open from Saturday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm
If you want to spend the hot summer indoors where it’s shaded and cool, then you can museum hop in Auckland. We suggest starting within the cool confines of the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Here, you’ll get to delve into New Zealand’s cultural and military history using the many items from the Pacific Island and Māori artifacts there. The collection is made up of almost 2,000 historical pieces, including the iconic Māori war canoe from a totara tree.
| Pro Tip: Make an entire day of your trip to the Auckland War Memorial Museum by dropping by the park attached to its grounds. By closing, it’ll be cool enough outside to enjoy a nice walk. |
Embark on a Animal Fun at the Auckland Zoo
Address: Motions Rd, Western Springs, Auckland 1022, New Zealand
Phone Number: +64 9 360 3805
Hours: Open everyday from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
The Auckland Zoo is renowned for its diverse animal inhabitants and is most popular with the kids during the summer months when most of the residents are active. The zoo is cut up into 7 unique habitats each containing their own animals.
There are over 875 animals and 138 species from colorful rainforest dwellers to wild beasts. You can expect to see the classics like lions, tigers, elephants, and tortoises. There are also local animals like Kiwis, Tahakes, Wekas, and Kakapos.
| Pro Tip: To make the most of your experience, you can sign up for many experiences that let you get closer to the animals. Fun ones include the Giraffe Experience where you can feed them and the Barn Owl Experience where they take off from your arm. |
Escape to Butterfly Creek’s Tropical Paradise
Address: 10 Tom Pearce Drive, Auckland Airport, Auckland 2022, New Zealand
Phone Number: +64 9 275 8880
Hours:
- Open from Wednesday to Friday from 9:30 am to 4 pm
- Open from Saturday to Sunday from 9:30 am to 5 pm
The Butterfly Creek near Auckland Airport is another great option for animal lovers who are thinking of summer activities to do. The main stars of this location is the butterfly house where you can watch them fly around the area.
They also have crocodiles, kiwis, and a farm area with sheep, cows, and horses. Unlike a normal zoo, the Butterfly Creek features other creatures too. The Dinosaur Kingdom lets you interact with over 50 dinosaurs, all life size and animatronic.
| Pro Tip: If you’re sick and tired of regular animals you can easily spot in the zoo, then Butterfly Creek has one last surprise waiting for you. There are dragons, giant serpents, colorful unicorns, aliens, mermaids, and even a Kraken waiting for you. |
Conquer Enchanted Forest Mini Golf in a Picturesque Setting
– Media Credit: cgkjourneys
Address: 61 Selwyn Street, Onehunga, Auckland 1061, New Zealand
Phone Number: +64 9 636 9911
Hours:
- Open from Sunday to Thursday from 10 am to 6 pm
- Open from Friday to Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm
The Enchanted Forest Mini Golf is the perfect place to go and spend a fun day with your friends. This mini golf site has 18 full length mini golf holes all within a park. That means lots of trees that provide nice cool shade which is important on the hot summer days.
Each hole is different with varying levels of difficulty. This place is great for adults, but for kids too. The 13th Hole which is aptly named The Cage is the hardest one. You need to hit the ball just right for it to collide with the target there instead of a hole.
| Pro Tip: After a long day of battling it out, bring friends back together again by packing a picnic that you can enjoy on the open fields or near the barbeque grill that anyone can use. Just make sure to clean as you go. |
Indulge in Gourmet Delights at Giapo
Address: 12 Gore Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Phone Number: +64 21 412 402
Hours:
- Open from Tuesday to Saturday from 12:30 pm to 10:30 pm
- Open on Sunday from 12:30 pm to 10 pm
No summer activities list will ever be complete for us without some recommendations for ice cream. Although Auckland is crawling with lots of great options, one stands out from the rest. Giaopo puts a bit more care and artistry in crafting their goods.
They’re completely gluten free and they only use A2 Milk from Durham Farm we never leave here fearing some tummy rumbling. They also put a lot of effort in the cones, and the presentation of the ice cream.
| Pro Tip: For those who can’t get satisfied with just a cone or a cup, we highly recommend going for their take away tubs. They offer their best flavors in different sizes. The bigger containers tend to cost less per ML too! |
Explore Nature’s Wonders at Hunua Ranges Regional Park
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Address: 203 Falls Road, Hunua 2583, New Zealand
Phone Number: +64 9 366 2000
Hours: Open everyday 24/7
You can experience the great outdoors with a visit to Hunua Ranges Regional Park, and be treated to New Zealand’s natural beauty. But, it isn’t just grass and trees either. The Hunua Ranges Regional Park has a net of hiking tracks through forests and ridge lines.
These tracks let you see the city and the Firth of Thames. Shorter walks are also available for non-hiking lovers like us. Our favorite for a short but satisfying hike is the one that takes you to Hunua Falls where you can also go for a dip.
| Pro Tip: There are many camping areas within the Hunua Ranges Regional Park, so you can bring a tent and some gear with you to make your day trip into a weekend one. You just have to book your stay with the Auckland Regional Council website first. |
Dive into Marine Marvels at Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium
Address: 3 Tamaki Drive, Orakei, Auckland 1071, New Zealand
Phone Number: 0800 805 050
Hours: Open everyday from 9:30 am to 5 pm
You can dive into the mesmerizing world of marine life at Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium, a mere 15 minutes from the CBD. Here, you see all sorts of animals from turtles and crabs to sharks and jellyfish that total over 10,000 residents.
They also have touch tanks where you can touch sea stars and special areas for King and Gentoo penguins and stingrays too. There are plenty of colorful fish living here including the crowd favorite clownfish.
| Pro Tip: The Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium lets you buy your tickets from their booths on site, but if you buy from the website, there are discounts and sales from time to time. |
Experience Family Fun at Matakana Country Park
Address:RD5/1151 Leigh Road, Matakana Country Park, Matakana 0985, New Zealand
Phone Number: +64 21 790 981
Hours: Open everyday from 6 am to 9 pm
If you’re looking for somewhere to go with the family that takes you out of the city life, then you can uncover the charms of Matakana Country Park. The site spans across 50 acres, all filled with scenic views of trees and wildlife. There’s plenty to do here too!
You can let the younger toddlers ride around in the miniature train while older kids can enjoy some animals at the petting zoo. Adults can have a great time here too on horse and carriage rides. You can also explore the Matakana Art Gallery.
| Pro Tip: We never bother packing snacks or food when we go to the Matakana Country Park. Bramble Cafe is our go to for breakfast goodies and then grab lunch at Stables Restaurant. |
Master the Waves at Muriwai Beach with Surf Lessons
Address: 458 Motutara Road, Muriwai, Auckland, New Zealand
Phone Number: +64 09 871 0249
Hours: Open everyday 24/7
What better way to embrace summer fun than unleashing your inner surfer at Muriwai Beach. If you’re already a pro then you can enjoy the huge waves and perfect surfing conditions here. For newbies, try booking a lesson with Muriwai Surf School.
You can sign up for one on one lessons with professional instructors who will get you surf ready in 2 hours, but this might be a bit costly. To save money, they also offer group lessons everyday which are held at 10:30 am and 3 pm.
| Pro Tip: The lessons are inclusive of all necessary equipment, gear, and permits so that you won’t have to worry. Make sure you double check what kind of lesson you’re signing up for because they have ones for different skill levels. |
Savor Summer at Mission Bay’s Sun-Kissed Shore
Address: Mission Bay, Auckland 1071, New Zealand
Phone Number: 09 623 1200
Hours: Open everyday 24/7
Another iconic summer hangout spot is Mission Bay. You’ll find this packed throughout the year, just more so when the sun’s out. You can sunbathe in the sand and swim in the ocean for free.
Views of Rangitoto Island serve as your backdrop while enjoying your day out in the sun. You can bring a cooler of your own refreshments, even beer as long as it’s wrapped.
| Pro Tip: For those who want a hands free trip to the beach, just go empty handed and frequent the shops that line the waterfront. There are ice cream parlors and restaurants. |
Kayak Adventure to Rangitoto Island’s Shores
Address: 995C Kauaeranga Valley Road Thames 3577, New Zealand
Hours: Open everyday 24/7
Something we did for the first time this summer was kayaking along the Hauraki Gulf’s sparkling waters, heading towards the iconic Rangitoto Island. This exhilarating tour took just over an hour.
When we got there, we took the time to rest and fueled up with some snacks and then we walked to the island’s peak for some great views.
| Pro Tip: The Auckland Sea Kayaks offer sunset kayaking options for a more beautiful return journey. |
Enjoy an Outdoor Movie Night Under the Stars at Silo Park
Address: Corner Beaumont Street and Jellicoe, Jellicoe Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Phone Number: +44 9336 8820
Hours: Open everyday 24/7
A unique experience during the summer are the outdoor movie nights at Silo Park. Outdoor movie showings are already starting to gain popularity, but cinema nights are made more special here.
They project the movie on the side of a huge silo. Plus, entrance is absolutely free every Friday! Stay tuned for updates on which movies are showing on their website.
| Pro Tip: There are food trucks that park inside and near the park. Make sure you grab some food right when you get there before the lines get too long. |
Soar to New Heights with Skydive Auckland Ltd.
Address: 73 Green Road, Parakai 0874, New Zealand
Phone Number: +64 800 921 650
Hours: Open everyday from 8 am to 6 pm
If you want to elevate your Auckland experience, try skydiving with Skydive Auckland. You just need to make your way to their location and then undergo a safety briefing.
You can then enjoy the highest jump height in the North Island. Prices range from $300 to $595, covering all gear with optional photo and video packages.
| Pro Tip: Ensure a memorable journey by booking in advance and savor the breathtaking views during this three-hour, sky-high escapade. |
Camp under the Stars at Tawhitokino Campground
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Address: 265 Kawakawa Bay Coast Road, Ōrere Point 2585, New Zealand
Phone Number: +64 9 366 2000
Hours: Open everyday 24/7
You should experience the quintessential Kiwi summer by camping at Tawhitokino Campground. Whether you’re a camping enthusiast or prefer a more rugged adventure, you can do it all here.
It’s located on one end of the Tawhitokino Beach so you can enjoy kayaking by going on the Te Ara Moana Trail.
| Pro Tip: The campground is only accessible by foot after you leave your vehicle at the parking area, so pack light if you don’t want to carry too much. |
Have the Perfect Summer Vacation at Waiheke Island
Address: Waiheke Island, New Zealand
Hours: Open everyday 24/7
If you want a summer activity that will last a weekend, then head to the Waiheke Island for white sand beaches where you can play on the shore and in the sea.
There are also 100 km of walking and hiking trails for more active vacationers. The island is also known for its many vineyards where you can pick grapes, make your own wine and bring home the bottle.
| Pro Tip: There are bus and shuttle services to get around the island, but we suggest renting a car or bicycle if you want to stay in control of your time. |
Sail into Summer Bliss on Waitemata Harbour
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Address: Waitemata, Auckland Region, New Zealand
Hours: Open everyday 24/7
A must-do summer adventure is cruising the Waitemata Harbour. This rite of passage is one of our favorites to get our fix of sunshine and ocean breezes.
You’re treated to amazing views especially as you pass under the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Shortly after, you’ll pass the Devonport Naval Base. Once you get off, you can explore the waterfront.
| Pro Tip: We highly recommend booking the Auckland Harbor Dinner Cruise if you want an all inclusive service around the harbor. |
