We’ve had a rough run the past two years, but it feels like we’re finally breaking free from our shackles to enjoy the best that this marvelous city has to offer. Take a look at 31 of the best things to do this December 2022 in Auckland.
1. Have a bounce at MegaLand
Kickstart silly season by heading to this nostalgic pop-up obstacle course at Mt Smart Stadium between December 2 and 21. It’s New Zealand’s biggest obstacle course, for both kids and adults, and features 43 challenging obstacles spread across 300 metres. Certainly, one of the best things to do this December in Auckland. Read further about the experience.
đź“Ť2 Beasley Avenue, Penrose, Auckland 1061Â
2. Check out Red Bull Flugtag 2022
On December 10, Red Bull Flugtag will be hosted in Auckland for the first time. Watch wacky engineers and fearless pilots test out their flying machine inventions above the waters in Wynyard Quater. This can only go either bad or good, nevertheless, some entertainment for you!
đź“ŤWynyard Quarter, AucklandÂ
3. Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera: Art And Life In Modern Mexico
Auckland Art Gallery plays host to this epic exhibition until January 22. Read all about it here. Certainly, one of the best things to do in Auckland.
đź“ŤWellesley Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Christmas events
4. Go see a Christmas musical
Elf The Musical is the perfect way to get in the Christmas spirit this month. Taking place from December 8 to 11, it’s based on the famous 2003 movie starring Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf and is presented by Encore Theatre Collective. Perfect for people of all ages!
đź“ŤASB Waterfront Theatre, 138 Halsey Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
5. Coca Cola Christmas In The Park
On December 10, everyone’s favourite free Christmas party returns to Auckland Domain. Expect the likes of Ella Monnery, Lavina Williams, Gibz, dance groups and plenty more performers bringing all the entertainment.
đź“ŤPark Road, Grafton, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
6. Hop on the GVR Christmas lights train
From December 9 until 22, Glenbrook Vintage Railway will operate its award-winning Christmas Lights Train to light up Franklin. Expect beautiful light displays, an enjoyable Christmas market as well as Santa and plenty of entertainment. Tickets are from $10. Book your ticket here.
đź“ŤGlenbrook Vintage Railway – GVR, 24 Farm Park Road, Waiuku, Auckland 2681
7. Go to Santa’s Enchanted Forest
Create wonderful memories at Santa’s Enchanted Forest at Smith & Caughey’s by snapping some pictures with Santa and meeting the elves. Tickets begin at $24. Book your family meet with Santa here.
đź“Ť253/261 Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010Â
8. See Love Actually In Concert
On December 17, experience the ultimate romantic comedy live at the Civic Theatre. Read all about it here.
đź“ŤCivic Theatre, 269-287 Wellesley Street West, Auckland 1010Â
Want more christmas? Check out our guide to the best Christmas 2022 activities.Â
9. Rap with Kendrick Lamar
On December 16 and 17, multi-platinum, Grammy-award winning Kendrick Lamar will take to the stage in Auckland for his The Big Steppers Tour. With 14 Grammy wins under his belt, it’s the perfect place to bounce to rap tunes such as Bitch Don’t Kill My Vibe from one of the best international stars this summer.
Spark Arena, 42/80 Mahuhu Crescent, Parnell, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
10. Sail away on the seas
New Zealand Maritime Museum relaunched their Breeze Sailing adventure every second Saturday until the end of March. This exciting sailing experience involves a trip on a traditional wooden vessel from the 19th century. Guests must be 12 or older to sail. Prices start at $95.
đź“ŤCorner Quay & Hobson Streets, Auckland CBD, Auckland
11. Take the SkySlide
This new virtual reality attraction involves state-of-the-art technology taking you on an adrenaline-pumping slide from 186m above Auckland’s skyline. As you slide down imaginary glass tubes, you’ll feel the intensity as if it’s reality.
đź“ŤSky Tower, Main Observation Deck, AucklandÂ
12. Play at Holey Moley Golf Club
As one of the best date ideas in Auckland, you won’t get bored in this house of fun. Enjoy mini golf experience paired cocktails, scrumptious food and plenty of instagrammable moments.
đź“Ť 204 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
13. Hideaway in a secret new cocktail bar
ACS is a cosy new cocktail bar hidden above The Broken Lantern on Ponsonby Road last month. Concepted by the folks from Parasol & Swing, this beautiful bar is perfect for a late-night drink, however, you won’t get in without the password. Read further about it here.
Level 2, 198 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland
14. Visit the Waterfront Container Library
Why not chillout at this quirky alfresco library? Pop on your sunglasses, lay on a bean bag and read to your heart’s content – sounds like the perfect way to pass a few hours in peace.
đź“ŤTe Wero Island, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
15. Indulge at the Food Truck Collective
Get the ultimate street food fix at this mobile food truck collective that ventures around Auckland. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for their pop-up dates in December. Read all about the business here.
đź“ŤVarious LocationsÂ
16. Visit NZ’s highest rooftop bar
Excitingly, New Zealand’s highest rooftop bar opened in Auckland. Read all about Bar Albert here.
SEE MORE: The Greatest Rooftops To Hang Out At This Summer
17. Eat viral crème brûlée crepes
These viral Crème brûlée crepes are making the rounds across social media globally. Luckily, you can indulge on them every Saturday in Auckland. Find out more here.
đź“Ť 9/56 Apollo Drive, Rosedale, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
18. Head to Rainbow’s End
Of course, this is one of the best outdoor activities to do in Auckland. Discover this unique theme park, with plenty of rides such as water bumper cars to laser tag.
đź“ŤÂ 2 Clist Crescent, Manukau City Centre, Auckland 2104, New Zealand
19. Game Over Auckland
Spend a dull day playing arcade games, electric go-karts and other thrilling activities at this ultimate house of fun in Auckland. Read all about it here.
đź“Ť35 Arrenway Drive, Albany, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
20. Attend a Candlelight concert
The globally famous Candlelight concerts have upped their game in Auckland with more tributes to contemporary artists. Expect some festive tributes this month. See the best upcoming candlelight concerts here.
đź“ŤVarious Locations
21. Go wild at Thrillzone
A perfect activity for people of all ages to take part in virtual reality experiences. Certainly, it will provoke some laughter. Plus, it’s ideal for a birthday party.
đź“ŤVarious LocationsÂ
22. Escape Rooms
Why not battle it out in an escape room some weekend day? Get tickets here.
đź“ŤVictoria Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
23. Drink bottomless boozy slushies
Dr Rudi’s rooftop has relaunched their famous summer experience, FrosĂ© Your Way, until February 29. Wow your tastebuds with bottomless fruity frose, alongside a garnish wall, where you can DIY the crap out of your drink. Read all about the experience.
 Level 2/204 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
24. T.Rex Is King
Discover the world’s most devasting historic predator – the T-Rex down at the Auckland Museum. Get up close to an incredible rare complete T-Rex skeleton for the first time ever. This experience is free.
đź“ŤAuckland Museum, Parnell, Auckland
25. Tick off a summer activity
Luckily, we’ve already listed the best summer activities to do this season 2022 and 2023. From getting up close and personal with animals to plenty of water activites…you won’t be bored. Read about the best experiences here.
26. Visit Auckland Art Gallery
Relax and wander through a beautiful and calm space. Frequently, exhibitions and events change so there is always something new and spectacular to see. Likewise, it’s one of the best free things to do in Auckland.
đź“ŤÂ Wellesley Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
27. Paint and Chill
Unleash your inner artist and paint the night away at this awesome social painting class. Excitingly, the experience is paired with an array of alcoholic beverages. Read all about it here.
đź“ŤVie Lounge & Eatery at the Auckland City Hotel
28. Waiheke Island
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, take the ferry to Waiheke Island. Get lost among the spectacular beaches, impressive vineyards, glorious coastlines and native wildlife. Additionally, dine at one of the most romantic dining eateries and take advantage of summer activities.
29. Meet and greet cute animals
Animal lovers will enjoy a day at Auckland Zoo, which hosts 144 different species, and over 1400 animals, with the biggest diversity of wildlife in New Zealand. Certainly, the perfect winter activity. Book your tickets via the Auckland Zoo website.
đź“Ť Motions Rd, Auckland 1022, New Zealand
30. Go on an instagrammable adventure
The photo lovers among us will adore the most instagrammable places in Auckland along with the most instagrammable eateries. Meanwhile, the foodies can get their hands on the most instagrammable food dishes in Auckland.
đź“Ť Various LocationsÂ
31. Indulge on all-you-can-eat chocolate
Chocolate lovers can indulge at this newly opened world-class hotel Movenpick’s chocolate hour. Indeed, one of the best things to do this month. Read all about it here.
SEE MORE: Indulge On Authentic Italian Food At This New Auckland EateryÂ