From natural beauty and historical sites to adrenaline-pumping thrills, there are plenty of unique things to do in South Auckland.
We spanned an area from Auckland’s east to the west coast, discovering the diversity of nature one expects to see on any coast-to-coast adventure, but in New Zealand we could span the course in a few hours.
Filled with natural beauty and history, the region is alive with colourful parks, waterfalls, streams, and coast views. There is a seemingly endless number of outdoor free things to do in South Auckland. This only mirrors the massive number of man-made opportunities.
In fact, it’s the region where we find the country’s biggest Polynesian-style market, the largest theme park, the most celebrated vineyard, and the location holding the longest continuous liquor license. There’s even an Olympic training ground.
On the flip side, the region also had the nation’s worst maritime disaster.
South Auckland is also home to New Zealand’s largest international airport, and it is the starting point for most international visitors arriving via air travel. So, if you are going to spend any time here, read on and discover some fascinating things to do south of Auckland city.
First, be inspired by the city…
Mapping our favourite things to do in South Auckland
The map features our favourite things to do in South Auckland divided geographically. Below we have offered a bit more on each activity, along with any discounts we have discovered. The descriptions are organized into five categories (historical beauty, adrenaline rush, regional parks, kick back and relax, and weekend markets.)
West Coast
- Manukau Heads
- Waiuku
Central
- Otara Flea Market
- Villa Maria Vineyard Estate
- Rainbow’s End
- Vector Wero Whitewater Park
- Auckland Botanic Gardens
East Coast
- Omana Regional Park
- Maraetai Wharf
- Duder Regional Park
- Clevedon Village Market
- Hunua Ranges
Places to visit in South Auckland for historical beauty
Manukau Heads lighthouse and Awhitu peninsula
With black sand on one side and white on the other, the Awhitu Peninsula is an adventure on its own, as well as one of Auckland’s most beautiful places. However, we focused on our destination, the Manukau Heads Lighthouse. Once at the end of the peninsula, we climbed the lighthouse, as it’s one of the few remaining lighthouses in NZ that is still open to the public (and free!).
Here, despite the wind, we had spectacular views, including the sandbar responsible for the wreck of the HMS Orpheus. It remains the worst maritime disaster in New Zealand’s nautical history.
If you have allocated enough time, be sure to stop for a hike through the Awhitu Regional Park on your way back down the peninsula.
Auckland Botanic Gardens
Roam through 156 acres (including 10 acres of native forest), passing 10,000 plants from around the world. The Auckland Botanic Gardens attract nearly one million visitors annually, suggesting it is the most popular of the South Auckland activities.
Opened in 1982 and run by the Auckland City Council, the gardens open daily at 8am and have an on-site cafe. We always stop here when driving south, even on longer trips, like a road trip to the Bay of Plenty.
Maraetai Wharf
Getting here is half the fun, as the drive is alongside the pōhutukawa coast. Here we enjoyed a stroll along the peaceful walking path passing a children’s playground and views out as far as the Coromandel Peninsula on a clear day. There’s an overall romantic feel, especially when there are couples cuddling together at the end of a wharf overlooking the water.
Things to do in South Auckland: adrenaline rush
Rainbows End Amusement Park
New Zealand’s ultimate theme park, Rainbows End will push adrenaline junkies to the edge of their limit with unique rides like the Stratosfear (photo above), Fear Fall, or Corkscrew Coaster. It’s the country’s largest theme park and a great day of fun for the entire family. If you are headed to Rainbows End, be sure to check for discounts and reserve your tickets here.
Vector Wero Whitewater Park
Imagine a whitewater rafting experience in the city with an adrenalin-pumping 300m Grade 3-4 course that was even used by some of our Olympians for their training. If you are ready to enjoy one of the most thrilling things to do in South Auckland. Reserve your often discounted time slot here.
Free things to do in South Auckland: regional parks
There are 28 regional parks in Auckland, each amazing, and each with its own features and highlights. About a third are in South Auckland. Three of our four favourites are listed just below, the fourth being Awhitu Region Park, which we already recommended above.
Hunua Ranges and waterfall
With hours of hiking trails and the impressive Hunua Falls, the Hunuas are easily a destination on their own. My daughter has spent more time here than I have and shares her photos above.
Ōmana Regional Park
The first stop on the east coast section of our road trip exploring things to do in South Auckland was the Beachlands Maraetai Walkway in Ōmana Regional Park. For us, it was interesting to notice that Rangitoto seems to look exactly the same regardless of which side you view it from. Historically,Ōmana park was one of the region’s first farms.
Duder Regional Park
While most visitors to Duder Regional Park come for the peninsula walk and that feeling as if you are on your own island, we went in lambing season to enjoy the spring lambs. It’s home to one of Auckland’s best walks.
Things to do in South Auckland: kick back and relax
Waiuku
The delightful town of Waiuku is home to the Kentish Hotel, which holds New Zealand’s longest continuous liquor license.
Nearby, don’t miss the black sand, rugged cliffs, and impressive waves that match the generally windy atmosphere at Kariotahi Beach.
And if you want to complete the day in luxury, head to Castaways Resort for a clifftop meal overlooking the water. Or, go for the ultimate in pampering, book a spa treatment and then spend the night. Book your stay here.
Villa Maria Vineyard
One of New Zealand’s most celebrated wineries is Villa Maria Vineyards. It has been awarded the New Zealand Wine Company of the Year at least 15 times in the past 20 years. With a location quite near Auckland Airport, a stop here is ideal before your next flight.
Stroll through the grounds (last time we saw hand-pickers harvesting the grapes), have a winery tour, or enjoy a snack, meal, or a glass of wine at the cafe.
Read next: 6 Cool Things to Do Near Auckland Airport
Things to do in South Auckland: weekend markets
- Otara Flea Market on Saturday
A Saturday morning flea market, Otara is the largest Polynesian-style market in New Zealand. - Clevedon Sunday Farmers Market
I think it’s the overall relaxed and rural atmosphere that makes this farmers’ market so popular in the region. In fact, this lively market is so popular that there’s even a transit option from downtown Auckland that will let you leave the car at home and simply enjoy the views along the way. Check for family discounts and book your transit here.
A bit farther away
Photo credit: Waitomo Glowworm Cave: Corin Walker Bain / 100% Pure New Zealand.
Both images are used with permission.
- Hamilton Gardens
- The surfing town of Raglan
- Hobbiton movie set in Matamata
- Waitomo Glowworm Caves
- Plus, here is a list of 75 free and mostly free things to do in Auckland
Where to stay
Our favourite getaway spot is located in the region, and you can read our full review of Quail Lodge here.
Save on your NZ trip with these resources
These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.
- Flights: we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
- Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), Bookabach (self-contained in NZ), or Hostelworld (budget). See all our personal favourite NZ hotels here.
- Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
- Motorcycles: we have heard good things about BikesBooking.
- Campervans or Motorhomes: we use Campstar where Albom Adventures readers get a 3% discount.
- Activity discounts: we check Bookme.com for discounts of up to 70% on activities.
- Private guides: we do have a go-to when we hire a private guide.
- Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.
Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel. And don’t forget to download our free New Zealand packing list when you sign up for our newsletter.
Save for later
If you enjoyed this article, please share it on social media and save it for later on Pinterest.
Do you now know what to do in South Auckland?
More from Auckland you might also like … starting with these 75 free and nearly free things to do in the city
Photo Credits:
All photos on this page are either shot by our team and watermarked as such or stock images from Depositphotos.
Krista
It looks like there are some fantastic things to do in this area for people of all ages and interests. I would love to check out some waterfalls while hiking!
Marianne
Not sure about the amusement park, but I would love to see the lighthouse and any waterfalls! South Auckland looks incredible! Hopefully, our plans work out and we will be visiting in 2024!
Nancy
I’ve always dreamed of heading “down under” to Australia and New Zealand. Your travelogues only make me want to all the more!
Mayi
I have not been to New Zealand yet but would love to someday. I want to spend an afternoon at the Auckland Botanical Garden. I have also always been intrigued by Hobbiton, which would be on my itinerary when I do go.
L. Diane Wolfe
I couldn’t resist the amusement park. Charlotte has a whitewater park, too, and it’s lots of fun.
Leah
Haven’t made it to New Zealand yet but I’ll definitely be saving for when I do! The regional parks and amusement parks will be top of my list.
Erin
This looks like a ton of fun! I especially would enjoy your Hunua Ranges and waterfall. Thanks for putting it on my radar.
Katie Caf
I haven’t made it to New Zealand or Australia yet, I’m saving it for a BIG trip since it’s so far from where I live – but this article makes me want to go now 🙂 P.S. The map you made is super helpful!
Val
28 regional parks?? That s crazy, but also exciting! Nice photos, thanks for sharing your insight!
Ildiko
South Aukland looks like a beautiful place. I’m so happy that you incorporated the interactive map so that we could get our bearings. The Hunua Falls and range look beautiful. Would also love to taste at the Villa Maria vineyards. I frequently order wine from New Zealand and always enjoy them. The Awhitu peninsula with the black and white sands also sounds very interesting.
Lisa
New Zealand is such a gorgeous place, so much natural beauty to enjoy! The Auckland Botanic Gardens look incredible.
Lenore
New Zealand looks like a dream! I’d love to visit the Hunua Ranges and Waterfalls, as well as the Rainbows End Amusement Park. This is such a great guide, I will save it for when I finally visit.
Lasma
Great article, like always! I would love to visit Botanical Garden and experience the adrenaline rush. All the parks and a vineyard look amazing as well. Will save this for my future travels!
Linda Jane
Some great suggestions for fun things to do in Auckland! I’ll save this for my next trip to NZ!
Alex J. Cavanaugh
You just know I’d have to visit Hobbiton! But also the gardens and parks.
Rose
It is wonderful to know that travelling is now a reality again as we get ahead of Covid. South Auckland is definitely on my bucket list – and now I know I have to check out those waterfalls.