Though Auckland has public transportations (buses, a few trains, and Uber/taxis), they only really cover the CBD and the closest suburbs. So finding things to do without a car is sometimes a bit challenging, and definitely not the New Zealand that everyone has in mind. There are some really lush (thanks to the abundant rain) beautiful parks scattered throughout the city that make for a nice escape from city life. I’ve managed to find a few ways to keep busy without having to leave the city!
Mount Eden
Billed as the highest point in Auckland. Most sane people drive up to the top, but where’s the fun in that?? The bottom is easily reachable by bus, and the walk to the top only takes about 20 minutes. It’s a giant dormant crater that’s now covered in lush green grass, and it has a really nice view of the city skyline. There are a lot of good restaurants in the Mt Eden suburb as well, and a nice craft beer place called Hopscotch that has 30 NZ craft beers on tap. You can’t have a proper pint, but they’ll let you sample as many as you want!
Devonport
On the North Shore, reachable by bus or ferry (we of course chose the ferry for the fun factor). The shops right outside the ferry terminal are adorable, with quaint shopping and tons of good food. Northhead and Mt Victoria are easy walks and a gentle hike from the ferry, with nice views looking back towards the city.
The Domain
Once you disappear into the dense foliage of the Domain, you can definitely forget that you live in the middle of a city. With lots of beautiful walkways, a bubbling stream, and the sounds of wildlife all around you, you almost feel like you’re in a rainforest!
Takapuna
One of my favorite places to hang out outside of the city (maybe because some friends live there, so it gives me a good excuse to go there often!). Takapuna seems to be the suburb that will grow the fastest and be popular in the coming years. Lots of good food, nice restaurants, not a crazy party atmosphere. And of course the beach!
Parnell Rose Garden
Just off the main road in Parnell, this is a popular place to watch the sun set over the harbor. In the summer time, the garden is filled with roses and other plants, and even in the winter it is super green and has lots of giant old trees. From the main road, you can walk all the way down to Judge’s Bay, a tiny strip of sand outside the Parnell Baths.