Explore · Auckland
Auckland, outside.
The beaches, walks, viewpoints and quiet corners of the city — what locals do on a free Sunday, and what’s worth getting out of bed early for.
East-coast cove or west-coast surf — Auckland is two cities of coastline. A hidden harbourside cove at the end of a signposted gravel track in Stanley Point. Steep steps down to an old jetty, a rope swing at high tide, and one of the best ground-level views of the Auckland Harbour Bridge you'll find on the North Shore. A gorgeous sandy North Shore beach with pōhutukawa shade, and a tidal splash pool. Devonport's quiet neighbourhood beach with straight-shot CBD views — a historic wharf for jumping and fishing, a playground across the road, and one of Auckland's best free NYE fireworks spots. A beloved harbour beach with stunning yacht views, giant pōhutukawa shade and one of Auckland's best playgrounds right next door. Devonport's sheltered, shelly family beach with unbeatable Rangitoto views — a summer pontoon, low-tide rock pools to Narrow Neck, and the Vauxhall shops steps from the shaded Arawa Street parkin Volcanic cones, harbour lookouts and the climbs worth taking the long way to. Bastion Point, also known as Takaparawhau, is one of Auckland's most significant places — both for its sweeping view and its history. The headland looks… The highest cone on the North Shore, a steep ten-minute climb, and a 360 over the harbour, the city and Rangitoto. Free, and hard to beat. A 50,000-year-old volcanic headland at the entrance to Auckland's harbour, with a network of WWI and WWII tunnels, bunkers and gun emplacements still open to explore. Free entry, great views of Rangitoto and the city, and a local cardboard sledding tradition the kids will love. Botanical glasshouses, heritage gardens and green spaces worth slowing down for. A lakeside loop with an epic playground, endless birdlife, and a free heritage tram linking it to the Zoo and MOTAT — one of Western Springs' best free days out. A free heritage attraction in Auckland Domain — two Victorian glasshouses, an ornamental courtyard with statues and fountains, and a fernery. Lovely flowers and beautifully photogenic year-round.Where to swim
Secret Cove
Castor Bay Beach
Stanley Bay Beach
Devonport Beach
Cheltenham Beach
Higher ground
Bastion Point (Takaparawhau) | Historic Headland & City Views
Mount Victoria (Takarunga) | Volcanic Summit & Panoramic Views
North Head (Maungauika) | Historic Volcanic Reserve
Parks & Gardens
Western Springs Lakeside Park
Wintergardens
