Of course, there’s hundreds of exciting things to do in Auckland. However, most of those activities burn a serious hole in our pockets. Consequently, we’ve listed 12 of the best free things to do in Auckland. So, you can have fun without spending money.
1. Watch a sunset or sunrise
We adore a good sunset and sunrise here at Secret. Therefore, we’ve already listed the best places to watch a sunset and sunrise in Auckland here.
📍 Various Locations
2. Explore Markets
Why not spend time exploring the various markets in Auckland. For example, Grey Lynn Farmers Market. Naturally, you’ll need to pay to indulge on delicious grub. However, prices are very cheap for belly-filling meals.
📍 Various Locations
SEE MORE: The Best Cheap And Cheerful Eats In Auckland
3. Get educated at Auckland War Museum
As one of New Zealand’s most significant museums, expect an array of permanent and ever-changing exhibitions. For instance, explore stories of life as a WWII solider or see exhibitions like Love & Loss, which showcases how the way we communicate overtime has changed. Indeed, entry is free.
📍 Parnell, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
4. Climb a volcano
Grab a friend and get your steps in by climbing one of the many dormant volcanoes in Auckland. Some examples are Mount Eden, offering stunning views of Auckland, Rangitoto which is a fantastic day trip or Mount Wellington, to name a few.
📍 Various Locations
5. Snap an IG-worthy photo
Luckily, we’ve already listed the most instagrammable places around Auckland. For example, Muriwai Gannet Colony and Achilles Point Lookout. Fantastically, most of these places are free to visit.
📍 Various Locations
6. Manukau Heads Lighthouse
One of the best things to do on a sunny day is explore this magnificent 140-year-old lighthouse with iconic vistas out to sea. Wonderfully, it makes a great picnic area with a peaceful ambience. Of course, it’s free entry.
📍 759 Manukau Heads Road, Manukau Heads 2684, New Zealand
7. Walk on the beach
All of the beaches in Auckland are free to explore. Choose from our collection of the best beaches to hangout at in Auckland.
📍 Various Locations
8. Auckland Art Gallery
Creatives and art lovers will adore one of the greatest collections of international and national art in New Zealand. Immerse yourself in rainbow hues, get updated on fashion icons and much more. Certainly, one of the greatest free things to do in Auckland.
📍 Wellesley Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
9. Have a picnic at Devonport
The North Head Historic Reserve Trail is an unbeatable place to have a picnic this summer. Perch your blanket on the hilltop, and watch as the city turns from day to night. Alternatively, there are plenty of other fantastic picnic areas in Auckland.
📍 Devonport, Auckland 0624, New Zealand
10. Explore Goat Island
Just an hour from Auckland, feel as if you’re in paradise. This island was New Zealand’s first marine reserve, so marine life is protected. Additionally, it’s a surreal place to snorkel with fish, kayak and venture on some great walkways. Bring a packed lunch, and you won’t need to spend a penny.
📍 Goat Island, Auckland
11. Hike around the bush
Auckland boasts a selection of sacred native forests that are therapeutic to explore. For example, the Waitakere Ranges on the West coast offers rugged black beaches, pristine coastline and native wildlife all in one. Certainly, one of the best things to do on a good day in Auckland.
12. See a majestic temple
Feel like you’re in Bali by visiting the peaceful Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple. As the largest Buddhist temple in New Zealand, it serves as a place of education and worship, boasting a complex with an art gallery, a tea house café, a Chinese school and stunning gardens.
📍16 Stancombe Road, Flat Bush, Manukau 2016, New Zealand