Waterfront

Viaduct Harbour

Relax with fine food and wine or a casual meal at one of Viaduct Harbour’s popular restaurants and bars, with the superyachts moored just metres away. Indulge in five-star cuisine or simply sit back with a chilled glass of wine and watch the world go by.

Viaduct Harbour, created in the 90s when the city was gearing up to host the America’s Cup, speaks of our close ties to the sea. Go jet boating, join a sailing charter or enjoy a relaxing harbour cruise. Help sail an ex America’s Cup sailing yacht or venture out on the Hauraki Gulf for whale and dolphin spotting. Visit the New Zealand Maritime Museum to learn about New Zealand’s rich maritime history. See traditional Māori sailing waka (canoes) and modern racing yachts, and check out the fascinating exhibitions.

Wynyard Quarter

This revitalised waterfront precinct is brimming with the energy of locals and visitors of all ages.

Some are there to dine at harbourside restaurants or enjoy a few cocktails as the sun sets. Some are taking the kids to play at the funky maritime themed play space. This great inner-city playground even has a cool sand floor, a basketball court and salvaged materials with a modern twist. Take a ride on the historic tram, look out for the public piano, and grab a book at the small library in a colourful shipping container.

If you’re on a budget, or you just want a classic Kiwi experience, join the locals at the Auckland Fish Market and choose from a wide range of the freshest seafood straight off the boat. Try the delicious fish and chips for lunch in the open-air courtyard or choose a spot on the water’s edge.

In summer, check out Silo Park’s night markets and outdoor cinema every Friday. Browse the stalls for vintage clothing, contemporary art and a delicious array of food before the movie.

Mission Bay and St Heliers

These two vibrant beachfront suburbs are lined with eateries and shops.

Take a dip in the sea, hire a kayak, try stand-up paddle boarding, or just relax with a family picnic and throw a Frisbee around. Head to St Heliers boat ramp for a guided sea kayaking tour of Auckland’s harbour and nearby islands. The tours run every day and you can choose between a half-day, full-day or sunset experience.

Dive into some great food, served with seaside views and a relaxed vibe, or tuck into fresh fish and chips, a tasty bakery pastry or a delicious gelato on the beach. Walk, jog, cycle or rollerblade with the fitness fans along scenic Tamaki Drive, the main waterfront road from the city centre.

The views from Tamaki Drive alone are superb, but take it up a notch at Michael Savage Memorial, a hilltop public space at Bastion Point.

And if you’re with kids, Kelly Tarlton’s SEALIFE Aquarium is a must. See the world’s largest Antarctic penguin colony exhibit, as well as stingrays, sharks and thousands of fish in the walk-through aquarium.