Auckland is a large metropolitan and the most populous city in the North Island of New Zealand. Facing the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Tasman Sea, Auckland is best known for its stunning natural beauty and a lively city atmosphere. Therefore, the city can be considered as one of ideal tourist destinations for those seeking relaxing getaway from life's hubbub.

Going on a vacation to Auckland may be expensive, but you would always have a choice to spend your holiday periods with free things to do. Auckland is a home to many beautiful natural landscapes and spots you can always visit without any admission fee, they are:

With more than 18,000 artworks and collections displaying New Zealand historic, modern, and contemporary art, Auckland Art gallery Toi O Tamaki aims to provide visitors with fresh ways to think about art, participate in creativity, and expand their cultural horizons. It also holds various exhibitions, events, and educational programmes for the visitors.

Cornwall Park is an urban oasis with rich history, nature, farm life, and other spots to explore. You can go around the park’s farm to see many livestocks and bird species, gardens where thousands of plant species grow, and historic buildings: Acacia Cottage and Huia Lodge Discovery Hub. There are also loads of spaces where you can play your favorite games and sports.

Mount Eden is the highest volcano in Auckland. It’s only a short walk to reach the top of the mount. As you reach the summit, you can enjoy spectacular views of the city and its harbors. You can also find a well-preserved large crater contained in the summit cone. This is the perfect opportunity to take great photos!

Only a 10-minute drive from Auckland city center, Mission Bay is a little piece of paradise on the city’s waterfront away from the daily hustle and bustle. Relax and unwind with your families or friends by savoring various Italian and Asian dining options alongside the beach, or stop by Selwyn Reserve to view the stunning Waitemata Harbour and iconic Trevor Davis Memorial Fountain.

Located in West Auckland, Bethells Beach is a coastal community best known for its ideal spots for some water activities, like surfing, sunbathing, picnics, skimboarding, etc. You are also encouraged to bush walk with boardwalks, yet make sure to always obey the safety rules while on the beach, since it has strong rips and currents.

Nestled on Hill Road, Manurewa, Auckland Botanic Gardens is a unique landscape with over 9,000 plant species from around the world. You can be engaged with plants and gardens through workshops and drop-in sessions they regularly run. To admire the sculptural artworks, visit Botanic Gardens East and West Sculpture Path.

Wishing to stroll around Auckland’s city center? Stop by Queen Street. It’s the city’s major commercial area where lots of significant historic buildings and shopping malls are available. This area has become the main highlight of Auckland for shop addicts, foodies, and fun-loving travelers.

Also known as the Dove Myer Robinson Park, Parnell Rose Garden would please your eyes with over 5,000 colorful roses blooming throughout summer and autumn. This is one of the popular attractions in Parnell, not far from downtown Auckland. Its beautiful white garden is a famous venue for weddings.

Hauraki Gulf is a coastal feature of the North Island of New Zealand. The pristine blue waters provide countless water activities and island adventures, such as jet boating, kayaking, fishing, sailing; picnicking at Kawau Island, birdwatching at Tiritiri Matangi Island, or taking trips to Rotoroa island for its rich cultural tours, beautiful beaches, and walking trails.

Auckland Domain Wintergardens are 100-year-old glasshouses, a home to a myriad of rare plant species and botanical displays. The various spectacular plants, including corpse flowers and chrysanthemums, are exhibited in Victorian style glass houses facing out onto an extensive courtyard and sunken pool.

Besides several free things to do in Auckland, you can also set aside a budget for paid trips to vary your vacation. Several paid things to do in Auckland are:

Looking for an adrenaline-fueled activity? Go skydiving with your friends/families and jump from a plane from up to 13,000 feet. Paired up with an instructor in safety gear, you would enjoy a scenic flight to 13,000 to 18,000 ft before your instructor opens the parachute and glides you safely back down to earth. Keep your eyes open to take delight in the coasts, rainforests, and beaches stunning panorama!

Geothermal Valley Te Puia is the most well-known geothermal wonderland in New Zealand, featuring dramatic geysers and bubbling mud pools. It’s also a home to the state’s Maori Arts and Crafts Institute and live kiwi enclosures. Hence, being here, you wouldn’t only discover the natural wonders, like the largest active Pohutu Geyser, but also immerse yourself in the diverse Maori culture.

Are you wondering where The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogy were set? The answer is in Auckland, specifically at Hobbiton Movie Set. Within a 2-hour guided journey, you would start from Waikato countryside where mighty rivers and lush farmlands stretch out. Then, in the green pasture of Shire, you would stroll around 44 hobbit holes, enchanting gardens, and hear behind-the-scenes stories. Before ending the journey, make sure to enjoy a cold and refreshing beverage at the famous Hobbiton pub.

Discover Auckland, a city where urban thrills meet breathtaking nature. Explore lively parks, crystal-clear beaches, and enchanting islands, all free of charge! Encounter diverse wildlife and immerse yourself in rich history. For a touch of excitement, take to the skies with skydiving or embark on a unique city sightseeing tour (at an additional cost). Observe more activities and book your Auckland escape on Traveloka today!