Shore Excursion: Half Day Small Group Auckland Scenic Tour - 4 HOURS
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Popular Tour now released as a Shore Excursion. This is the most comprehensive Half Day Tour of Auckland available; perfect for those arriving by cruise ship. Join this half-day Auckland Scenic Tour if you want to see as much of Auckland as possible in 4 Hours with a guide steeped in the history and knowledge of Auckland.This tour will ensure you are able to see all the iconic Auckland sights. Drive along Tamaki Drive by air-conditioned Mercedes with one of our guides renowned for their knowledge; discover the quaint village of Devonport, Mission Bay and gaze over the coastal scenery from Achilles Point. Travel to the top of 2 of Auckland's volcanoes for stunning 360 degree views; North Head, a volcano with the most spectacular views over the City, inner Harbour ; also up Auckland's highest volcano, historic Mt. Eden; visit the Auckland Domain, home to the Auckland Museum and the 2 stunning Wintergardens and Fernery. This 4-hour tour includes round-trip travel from your cruise ship.
Available options
Ship To Shore Half Day Tour
Half Day Afternoon Tour: Auckland Ship to Shore Half-Day Excursion Tour that shows you all the best parts of Auckland. Morning departure at 1;00pm<br/>Pickup included
Ship to Shore Half Day Tour .
Half Day Morning Tour: Auckland Ship to Shore Half-Day Excursion Tour that shows you all the best parts of Auckland. Morning departure at 8:30am<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Cruise Terminal Pick Up and Drop Off
Local taxes
Local driver/guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Built in 1959, this affords spectacular 360 degree views and photo opportunities of Auckland as we travel across the bridge to the North Shore of Auckland
2
Stop 2
This is arguably the quaintest township in Auckland and dating back to 1850, the oldest on the North Shore that people liken to Sausilito in San Francisco. Marvel at the 5,000 old villas as we explain how to tell their age
3
Stop 3
Steeped in history and we explain this as formerly this was an underground township (during the 2nd World War and the 1880s) with a labyrinth of tunnels. Affords spectacular 360 degree views of Auckland City and the Hauraki Gulf
4
Is there any more beautiful place in Auckland than visiting the 2 stunning Wintergardens (these magnificent glasshouses) over 100 years old and our Fernery, home to our 80 endemic ferns including the most famous, our Silver Fern
5
The highest point on the isthmus of Auckland at 196 metres. Journey to the top and marvel at the most spectacular 360 degree views of Auckland.
6
Marvel at the beauty of Auckland's inner City beaches and the beautiful native Pohutakawa trees that flank the coastline
7
The richest street not only in Auckland but New Zealand that additionally offers spectacular views over Okahu Bay and Auckland Harbour
8
Marvel at the old stone cottage constructed by Bishop Selwyn in 1848 with volcanic rock as you journey through one of the quaintest coastal suburbs in Auckland as you journey to Kohimarama
9
One of the most historic places in Auckland; but also affords the most spectacular views of the Auckland Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf
10
One of 3 crater lakes in Auckland as we explain its history and significance
11
Marvel at the homes in the richest suburb of not only Auckland but New Zealand as we explain the types of timber used in their construction and how to tell their age
12
Stop 12
Marvel at the golden mile of Parnell, the oldest suburb of Auckland dating back to 1841
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Minimum age is 8 years
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
15 reviews
5★
14
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A small amount of easy walking is involved. Comfortable shoes recommended
A maximum of 14 people per booking(We can provide this tour to groups larger than 14 by discussions with Viator and ourselves)
At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
Please note that there are 2 activities that require good walking ability. Unfortunately, our tour is not recommended for those with agility/mobility issues.
Meeting point
Easily Identifiable in our bright yellow Mercedes-Benz vehicles
About Auckland
Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, known for its stunning harbor, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant multicultural scene. With over 50 trails and 22 islands, it's a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Auckland Sky Tower
The Sky Tower is Auckland's tallest structure, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
Architecture
1-2 hours
NZD 39 for observation deck, NZD 189 for SkyJump
Auckland War Memorial Museum
This museum offers a comprehensive look at New Zealand's history, culture, and natural environment.
Museum
2-3 hours
NZD 25 for adults, free for children under 15
Waiheke Island
Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves.
Nature
Full day
Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way
Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Adventure
Half day
Ferry fare NZD 18-25 one way
Auckland Zoo
Auckland Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals and offers educational programs and conservation efforts.
Family
2-3 hours
NZD 30 for adults, NZD 18 for children
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hāngī
A traditional Maori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. Meats and vegetables are cooked slowly in the earth oven, giving them a unique smoky flavor.
Dinner
Contains meat, can be vegetarian if requested
Pavlova
A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Dessert
Gluten-free, can be made vegan
Fish and Chips
A classic New Zealand takeaway food, featuring fresh fish (usually snapper or tarakihi) and chips, often served with tartare sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish, can be gluten-free if requested
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Skydiving
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Maori cultural performances
Museum visits
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor events. It's perfect for beach activities and hiking.
20-25°C
68-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Maori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Auckland is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Auckland Airport • 21 km south of the city center
By train
Auckland Railway Station
By bus
Auckland Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Auckland. The network includes local, frequent, and express services.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Ola
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
CBD (Central Business District)
Ponsonby
Devonport
Mission Bay
Day trips
Waiheke Island
35 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Full day
Waiheke Island is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Rangitoto Island
25 minutes by ferry from downtown Auckland • Half day
Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
Hobbiton Movie Set
2.5 hours by car from Auckland • Full day
The Hobbiton Movie Set is a popular tourist attraction featuring the filming locations from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies.
Festivals
Auckland Arts Festival • March
Auckland Diwali Festival • October/November
Auckland Pride Festival • February
Pro tips
- Visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cultural performances.
- Take a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day trip, and book a wine tour in advance to ensure availability.
- Explore the city's vibrant food scene by visiting the La Cigale French Market or the Auckland Night Markets.
- Hike up to the summit of Rangitoto Island for stunning panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf.
- Use the AT HOP card for easy and discounted public transport fares.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
