The most populous city of New Zealand, Auckland got its nickname ‘The city of sails’ from the huge popularity of sailing and watersports among its citizens. That’s why if you are in love with the water, then Auckland will be the perfect destination for you. There are a ton of activities in Auckland which will surely catch your fancy. The city has over seventy thousand boats and 120 beaches. Most of the Auckland activities and Auckland attractions surround the jade-green harbor and gulf waters of the city. However, besides the various water related activities in Auckland, there are a lot of attractions in Auckland worth visiting too. Many of these beautiful places get ignored as most of the tourists make themselves busy with the kayaking and sailing. However, if you are someone who wants to dig deeper, then here are some of the best places to visit in Auckland.

Hauraki Gulf

Named as the best experience in New Zealand by Lonely Planet, the Hauraki Gulf is dotted with countless emerald islands each beautiful in its own way. A lot of water sports and water activities are on offer here. The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is also the largest marine reserve of New Zealand. You can go on a whale or dolphin safari while you’re here. The opportunity of seeing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat makes Hauraki Gulf one of the must visit Auckland attractions when you travel to New Zealand.

Rangitoto Island

The city of Auckland resides on a volcanic field, and Rangitoto Island is the most obvious and the most beautiful reminder of that. An iconic part of the horizon of Auckland city, this island is actually a 600 years old volcano. You will get to see some incredible views of the city when you visit this Auckland attraction. Hike the trail to the top of the volcano to experience some incredible panoramic views. There are also quite a number of lava caves which you can explore.

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is home to some of the most picturesque beaches and a plethora of water activities. It is also known as the ‘island of wine’. There are a number of award winning wineries on this island. Going on a tour to one of these wineries is one of the must do activities in Auckland.

Herne Bay

An affluent suburb of Auckland, Herne Bay is a beautiful little area bejeweled with exquisite beaches. This area is one of the most expensive areas in Auckland. Each of the charming beaches of this area has its own personality. Hamilton and Cremorne beaches are one of those Auckland attractions which boast the clearest waters. The sandy shores disappear during the high tide and give you the perfect opportunity to throw your towel away and jump into the beautiful water. It’s a really nice destination to plan a family picnic.

Muriwai Beach

Muriwai Beach is a paradise for bird lovers between August and March because of the gannet colonies. You will be able to spot thousands of gannet birds breeding and nesting between the black sand dunes. Muriwai Beach can also be a brilliant destination even if you are not a bird person. There are plenty of water activities to take part in, which make Muriwai Beach a must visit Auckland attraction.