Private Auckland City Highlights Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
“Rated 5★ on TripAdvisor – new to Viator!”
Experience Auckland through the eyes of a local guide who knows the stories behind the views. This private tour combines famous sights with the small surprises—quiet beaches, dramatic lookouts, volcanic peaks, historic neighbourhoods, and the little spots you’d never find on your own. No rushing, no crowds, no fixed scripts. Just a relaxed, personalised journey shaped around what you’re most curious about. Ride in a modern, air-conditioned SUV vehicle and enjoy thoughtful commentary that brings Auckland’s landscapes, history, and culture to life. It’s a genuine Kiwi welcome to the City of Sails.
Available options
Private Auckland City Highlights Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Scenic photo stops — Multiple opportunities to capture Auckland’s best views and landmarks.
Bottled water
Mount Eden summit walk — Includes a short guided walk to the crater rim for panoramic views.
Travel in comfort with your personal guide in a modern, air-conditioned SUV vehicle.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
We begin by passing the Auckland Ferry Building, a distinctive 1912 waterfront landmark that overlooks the harbour and marks the heart of the city’s transport and trading history.
2
Follow Auckland’s iconic coastal road with wide views across the Waitematā Harbour as we make our way toward Mission Bay.
3
A beautifully landscaped clifftop reserve offering sweeping views across the Waitematā Harbour. Explore the memorial to Michael Joseph Savage and and learn why this is one of Auckland’s most significant viewpoints.
4
Stop to enjoy one of Auckland’s favourite beaches. Feel the sand beneath your toes, admire the pōhutukawa trees along the shoreline, or take a moment to photograph the view across to Rangitoto Island.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Once a volcanic crater and now Auckland’s oldest park, with the War Memorial Museum at its centre. We pass the impressive museum building before continuing into the peaceful gardens to visit the historic Winter Gardens.
6
Explore the heritage glasshouses, including the Tropical House and Cool House, before walking down into the tranquil Fernery tucked into an old quarry beneath the gardens.
7
Stop 7
Take a short walk to the summit for sweeping 360-degree views over Auckland’s skyline, twin harbours, and volcanic landscape.
8
Once a Māori walking track along the ridge and later one of Auckland’s busiest shopping streets. Today, as we drive through, you’ll see a vibrant mix of heritage buildings, street art, LGBTQ plus culture, and the colourful nightlife the road has long been known for.
9
Stop 9
Pass by
The heart of Auckland’s CBD, where 19th-century architecture meets busy retail, theatres, and business life. As we drive through, you’ll see how the city has grown from its early colonial beginnings to the modern metropolis it is today.
10
Stop 10
Pass by
We pass this 1911 Edwardian Baroque landmark beside Aotea Square, known for its clocktower and beautifully restored concert hall.
11
Stop 11
Rising 328 metres above the city, it’s hard to miss. We pause here for photos and a brief look at how the tower was built and the part it plays in Auckland’s skyline today.
12
Stop 12
Pass by
We pass St Patrick’s Cathedral, a Gothic Revival landmark with origins dating back to the 1840s and the centre of Catholic life in Auckland’s CBD.
What's not included
Meals, snacks, and beverages are not included unless specifically mentioned.
Personal expenses — Any purchases made during the tour are not included.
Airport pick ups or drop-offs are not included in this tour.
Child car seat (must be provided by parents/guardians for all children under 7)
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children are welcome on tour. New Zealand law requires an approved child restraint for all children under. Parents/guardians must bring their own child seat. We do not carry spare seats.
Travellers must be able to safely enter and exit a standard vehicle without assistance.
Important notes
Please present your mobile ticket to your guide at pickup.
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
