Family-friendly Hotels in Auckland

Exploring Auckland

Surrounded by beautiful countryside, the Auckland volcanic field and the Hauraki Gulf, Auckland is one of New Zealand’s most popular destinations, and it is not hard to see why. It is the most culturally diverse city in the country, a status which can be seen in its variety of restaurants and cultural festivals, as well as the most populous city. Its numerous yachts that adorn the gulf and Waitemata Harbour give Auckland its nickname, the ‘City of Sails’, while its 48 surrounding volcanoes means it’s frequently referred to as the ‘City of Extinct Volcanoes’.

Auckland often makes the top of the list in quality-of-life polls as a result of its mild climate, leisure activities, parks and harbors. Its iconic landmarks, such as the Auckland Harbour Bridge and the Sky Tower, make it attractive for visitors, as do its museums, art galleries and nearby beaches. The Waitakere Ranges are an outdoor lover’s dream, while historians flock to the Maori archaeological sites at the StarDome Observatory.

Sights nearby

Auckland’s surrounding area gives visitors a plethora of options for daytrips though the city centre itself is filled with enough options to keep anyone busy. Dining, shopping, and sightseeing can all be enjoyed here, and there is a great selection of accommodation to suit all budgets.

- Waitakere Ranges

This stunning chain of hills is around 15 miles south of the city and is made up of waterfalls, beaches, and rugged coastline. The highest point in the ranges sits at 474 meters above sea level and spans for more than 16,000 hectares. It is home to numerous historical sites that date back over 700 years as well as black sandy beaches, breathtaking vistas, and the famous Scenic Drive. Drive along this picturesque route from Titirangi to Swanson and take in the sweeping views, make a stop to go surfing at Karekare, or walk along a trail from the Arataki Visitor Centre.

- Auckland Harbour Bridge

This iconic bridge stretches across Waitemata Harbour from Auckland to Northcote and is part of State Highway 1. At 1,020 metres, it is the country’s second longest bridge and the longest bridge on the North Island. It rises 43.27 metres above the water to allow ships to pass under it to access ports around the harbour. Views of the bridge can be seen by walking around Auckland’s Viaduct Basin as well as from rooms at the Copthorne Hotel Auckland, HarbourCity. Or get up close and personal by taking an organised 90-minute climb of the bridge to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the harbour below.

- Karangahape Road

Commonly referred to as K’ Road, this is one of Auckland’s main streets. It is famous for its art galleries, shopping, and bohemian culture. In the day time, it is a fashionable street lined with boutique shops, trendy cafés, and numerous heritage sites, including the modern George Court Department Store, the English Baroque Mercury Theatre, and the iconic Langham Hotel, which sits on the former site of the historical Partington's Windmill. At night, it is one of Auckland’s main social centres, with its bars, cafés, and restaurants all coming to life.

Eating and drinking and shopping nearby

One of the best places to find top restaurants in the city is in the Ponsonby area, which is just over one mile west of the city centre. The central business district is the best option or eating within the city’s limits, especially along Queen Street, Karangahape Road, and in the Skycity Entertainment Complex. The Viaduct Basin is also a great place to spend an evening out, especially while dining and taking in the harbour views from the restaurant at The Sebel Suites Auckland.

Public transport

Public buses whizz around the city every 15 minutes or even more frequently and stop at all main attractions throughout the city. Still, buses are not always reliable in Auckland though most visitors find the central business district’s City Circuit bus and the Link Bus adequate for visiting the main sights.