Where to Find the Best Views in Auckland
Zoë Smith is a British travel writer, editor, and digital content creator who has lived, worked, and traveled over six continents, and is currently based near Nantes, France. She has written for Rough Guides, CNN, and Culture Trip, and is digital editor at FrenchEntrée.
Zoë Smith is a British travel writer, editor, and digital content creator who has lived, worked, and traveled over six continents, and is currently based near Nantes, France. She has written for Rough Guides, CNN, and Culture Trip, and is digital editor at FrenchEntrée.
Hi, I'm Zoë!Zoë Smith is a British travel writer, editor, and digital content creator who has lived, worked, and traveled over six continents, and is currently based near Nantes, France. She has written for Rough Guides, CNN, and Culture Trip, and is digital editor at FrenchEntrée.
Hi, I'm Zoë!Zoë Smith is a British travel writer, editor, and digital content creator who has lived, worked, and traveled over six continents, and is currently based near Nantes, France. She has written for Rough Guides, CNN, and Culture Trip, and is digital editor at FrenchEntrée.
From ocean views to soaring skyscrapers, New Zealand’s largest city has no shortage of photo-worthy vista points. Whether you'd rather climb a volcano, set sail across the harbor, or brave a jump from the city’s highest building, here are our tips for taking in the best views in Auckland.
The Sky Tower
Unbeatable city center views.
New Zealand’s tallest building affords unbeatable views over Auckland, the harbor, and the neighboring islands. Ride the elevator to the top of the 1,076-foot-high (328-meter-high) tower, where you can enjoy a drink at the Sky Lounge, take in the views from the glass-floor observation deck, or challenge yourself to a SkyWalk or SkyJump.
Auckland Harbour Bridge
Sweeping skyline views.
Connecting downtown Auckland with the North Shore, the landmark Auckland Harbour Bridge offers an impressive view of Auckland’s skyline and distant Rangitoto Island. Daredevils can climb the bridge to reach the highest viewpoint, while everyone else can take in the views while driving across.
Mt. Eden
Combine great views with an invigorating hike.
Panoramic views of Auckland await at the summit of volcanic Mt. Eden, the city’s highest peak. Tour buses and taxis will take you halfway up, but you will have to walk the final 10 minutes to the top, where the city skyline serves as a backdrop to the dramatic 164-foot-deep (50-meter-deep) crater.
One Tree Hill
Stunning views from a sacred site.
A sacred site for Auckland’s Maori people, the summit of One Tree Hill is marked by an obelisk commemorating the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. It’s possible to drive to the summit, but tackling the hill on foot is all part of the experience, with views spanning Auckland, Mt. Wellington, and the waterfront.
Rangitoto Island
Vistas that are worth the trip.
Just off the shore of Auckland, the island of Rangitoto is actually a dormant volcano, just 3.5 miles (5.5 kilometers) wide. Ride the ferry out to the island, then hike or take a 4WD tour up to its highest point, from which the views stretch across Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf.
The Parasol & Swing Company
The best rooftop views over downtown Auckland.
Among the most popular of Auckland’s rooftop bars, the Parasol & Swing Company boasts a stellar location overlooking Viaduct Harbour. Come at sunset for dinner, then stick around for cocktails against a backdrop of the illuminated waterfront.
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