In Teo Reo Māori, Auckland is known as Tāmaki Makaurau — the land desired by many — and after a recent trip across ‘the ditch’ to New Zealand’s largest city it’s not hard to see why. There’s something for everyone, from fine diners to movie lovers. The sweeping scenery and short distance from Australia’s east coast might draw you in but the bustling food and wine scene, captivating attractions and deep connection to culture will keep you coming back.
Being that Auckland’s only a hop, skip and a jump (three hours) from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane — it’s an ideal escape for a spontaneous weekend or midweek break. You can take in gorgeous sights, get a feel for Aotearoa life and lock down a new passport stamp. Sans the jet lag.
I decided to test it for myself. With just two and a half days to sprint around the city, for the very first time I might add, it was my mission to solve this curiosity: How many things can you really do in a quick weekend getaway to Auckland?
Here’s every Auckland activity I squeezed into less than 72 hours. Don’t worry, there’s time for relaxation too.
What to Do In Auckland: (Less Than) 72-Hour Edition
Check In and Relax at Cordis, Auckland
Hustle-and-bustle adjacent, Cordis is just a short walk from Auckland’s busy Queen Street shopping hub. You’ll be greeted by grand chandeliers, a trio of signature restaurants, a heated pool and jacuzzi and brilliant views of Auckland’s different skylines. The Chandelier Lounge is not only a post-worthy photo opp but the perfect spot to people-watch during high tea.
Whether you’re stepping off a short plane ride with the family or long haul flight next to your partner, you’ll be glad you chose to stay here. Why? Because the beds feel like a warm hug on a Sunday morning, from your favourite person. The mattress is so comfy that you can buy one from the hotel and have it delivered to your home.
Connect with the Stories of Tāmaki Makaurau at Mount Eden
Of Auckland’s other 50+ dormant volcanos, Mount Eden (or Maungawhau) is not only the highest but also holds so much history. Trying out a hīkoi (walk) experience with local cultural advisors like Dane Tumahai will help you understand Māori stories and ways of living.
Along the shorter iteration of the trail, you’ll encounter craters, plants, and plateaus that once served a great purpose and still do today.
You won’t need to reach the peak to take in the city’s skyline. From every resting place on this mini hike, you’ll see views that seamlessly meld nature and manmade infrastructure. Looking out into the distance, you may not even realise that the other mountains surrounding you are actually other volcanos.
Once you’ve taken it all in, head over to Friends and Whau Cafe for breakfast and a walk through the Maungawhau Visitor Experience Centre.
Find Your Old & New Favourite Artists at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
Look Picasso’s “Mère Aux Enfants À L’orange” in the eye, stare down a Salvador Dali surrealist work or take in traditional Māori compositions at the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. Its principal collections, spanning a wide array of art periods, are already a sight to behold but with the renovation of the heritage building set to be complete in August 2025, there’s only more to come. Admission is free or you can book drop in sessions, yoga and art immersion or workshops.
Explore Auckland’s High Street and Shopping Precincts
Tucked away bookshops, boutique clothing stores and hole-in-the-wall coffee shops line Auckland’s High Street ready for you to browse, buy and delight. Nearby to other shopping destinations Queen Street and Chancery Square, this short but sweet street is full of charm and plenty to see.
Fill Your Tummy with French Classics at Gilt Brasserie
Established in October 2023, Gilt Brasserie is revisited time and time again by locals, foodies and lovers of long lunches. Josh Emmett’s culinary expertise and restaurant experience across London, Australia and New Zealand have encouraged his creation of a warm and inviting venue with calming interiors and delicious bites.
Located inside the elegant Chancery Chambers, Gilt is French cuisine with New Zealand heart. The first bite of the brasserie’s signature crumbed lamb chops is now firmly engrained into my mind, resting on a creamy bed of heavenly yogurt and fried sage. Similarly, the moreish mouthfuls of Zabaglione prove you find a delicate, yet exciting harmony between mascarpone and orange. I think about this meal at least once a day.
Challenge Yourself with a Walk Through the Sky
Looking to raise your adrenaline? AJ Hackett’s Auckland SkyWalk at Sky Tower will absolutely do the trick. One jumpsuit and harness fitting, a 50-floor elevator ride and plenty of safety checks later, you’ll find yourself outside — 192m above the street. No railings in sight.
The 360-degree views are spectacular. In your eye line, you’ll spot volcanos, mountains, skyscrapers, ship ports, coastlines and the all important Eden Park. But that’s not all, your instructor will encourage you to get around challenges to raise your heart rate. No spoilers but they do involve looking down at the street.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you might want to book in the Sky Jump.
Transform Into a Filmmaking Intern at Wētā Workshop Unleashed
You simply cannot visit New Zealand without doing something filmmaking related and this activity is packed full of references. Partners in business and love, Richard Taylor and Tania Rodger opened up Wētā Workshop in Wellington as special effects specialists in 1987 and have since expanded to Auckland with Wētā Workshop Unleashed.
You’ll be guided through the fantastic world of filmmaking as a Wētā intern and you’ll see everything from prosthetic construction to story building and camera trickery for horror, science-fiction and fantasy movies. Inside there are tons of photo spots, interactive exhibits and interesting insights into your favourite films.
Imagination is key and it’s pretty darn cool to see how other production designers and story builders minds work.
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Sip Cocktails with a Sunset Skyline View at Bar Albert
A local watering hole atop Voco Auckland, Bar Albert makes you feel like you’ve clocked off from work in New York. Low lit and sultry vibes at sunset, enclosed by floor-to-ceiling windows ensure that the view envelopes you no matter where you look. The atmosphere feels like the possibilities of the night are endless.
Order snacks to share while sipping on a refreshing cocktail. My choice for a long day of exploring is Bar Albert’s Parnell Rd signature cocktail. Blending together a New Zealand gin, pineapple, jasmine tea and grapefruit cordial — the taste is undeniably fresh.
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Get to Know Pasifika Flavours at Metita
After a full day of activities, this is the cherry on top. Metita sits within the SkyCity precinct near the Wētā Workshop Unleashed and Sky Tower with a focus on elevating Pasifika classics. Michael Meredith’s carefully curated menu is an ode to home with pairings that celebrate the flavours he grew up with in Samoa. His home country is embedded into the restaurant’s interiors, adorned with handwoven pieces and palm fronds throughout the venue.
Don’t skip the oysters cooked in bone marrow and paprika for a snack or the Panikeke — a Samoan deep fried donut with housemade banana ketchup. There are plenty of proteins to choose from for your main and I happily decided on the Charred Fe’e (or octopus) which was tender, delightfully salty and paired with miti, a Fijian condiment featuring coconut, lime, onion, tomato and chilli.
The main event for me? The Panipopo! Typically this Samoan dessert features a soft bread bun cooked in a sweet coconut sauce. Metita’s version takes the same principle and uses a flaky croissant-style bread with coconut inside. It’s then topped with a scoop of housemade banana sorbet and a creamy rum caramel. Yes, it’s as good as it sounds and I will be flying back over just to eat it again.
Feel the Sun and Sip Wines on Waiheke Island
40 minutes on a picturesque ferry from Auckland and you’ll find yourself on Waiheke Island. In its off season, it is home to 9,000 residents but after the Christmas period, that can climb to anywhere between 20,000 to 40,000, according to Ananda Tours’ guide, Jo. The island houses plenty of luxury properties owned by some of Aotearoa’s wealthiest citizens.
Tucked between the hills, beachsides and mansions shrouded by greenery are a plethora of boutique wineries that are sought out by tourists and locals from both the North and South Island. Despite being known as the country’s ‘Island of Wine’, Jo estimates that the Waiheke Island scene only makes up for 1% of New Zealand’s industry. Each drop is a limited edition so, it’s worth savouring.
Batch, Stonyridge and Mudbrick wineries are my picks for a good tasting. Every single cellar door has its own vibe but the atmosphere of each feels like you’re in the countryside of Europe’s wine destinations.
Drink, Eat and Taste Oils at Allpress Olive Groves
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This experience felt very unique to Waiheke Island. After the sale of Allpress Coffee, Michael Allpress decided it was time for a new gastronomical adventure — olive oils!
At this destination, you’ll try some of Allpress’ signature oils made from Waiheke-grown olives. The technique of trying these oils appears niche but if you open your mind to pulling out the subtle hints and notes in each blend, you’ll find yourself walking away with a new skill. Did I mention the technique involves dipping bread?
Find a Heartfelt Moment of Peace at Timmy Smith
I stumbled into Timmy Smith’s jewellery store while walking through Oneroa on Auckland’s Waiheke Island and found myself instantly at peace. Owner, Timmy’s jewellery making pursuits started to help her child recognise her more easily, after experiencing some vision problems. From here, she’s expanded her business into a space for connection and peace.
Timmy creates bespoke accessories using sands from special moments or places. But if jewellery isn’t your bag, you can take a moment to centre yourself by building your own signature tea in-store.
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Indulge in Comfort Foods and Cocktails at Our Land
To close out your trip, head back to the comfy beds and heated pool of Cordis Auckland then get dressed up to celebrate the end of your trip at Our Land.
One of Cordis’ in-house dining experiences, Our Land is an homage to its home country. Everything from the live moss on the walls to the cocktails shaken at the bar, is inspired by and sourced from New Zealand. The drinks go down easy while you dine-in on scrumptious comfort food — mac and cheese, beef croquettes and even a massive board of pulled pork toasties.
Take a tumbler of the Mangungu Beehive cocktail out to the alfresco area and start the plans for your next trip across ‘the ditch’.
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