New Zealand's largest city, Auckland, is a place with diverse landscapes like volcanoes, gulfs, forested areas and beaches. This makes backpacking in Auckland a perfect activity. It has an urban setting with the pristine beaches and trails only an hour and a half away from the main city. It is a multi-cultural hub of food, art and culture not just for locals but for visitors from all around the world. Unsurprisingly, Auckland is one of the most suitable countries for backpackers, with affordable accommodation, cheap transportation and a plethora of attractions.
Read on to discover the complete guide for backpacking in Auckland.
Five Best Things to Do While Backpacking in Auckland:
1. Sky Tower
New Zealand's tallest building at a height of 192 metres above ground level, provides a 360˚ panoramic view up to 80 kilometres in all directions. Enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities like skywalking and sky jumping, amazing views, and dining at the Sky Cafe. You can look at volcanoes, key landmarks, and historical locations from 220 metres above the street level. Kids will be very thrilled to look through the glass floor at the street far below. It will be entertaining for them to watch people skyjumping off the tower. Visit on a clear sky day for the ultimate experience.Pricing:
Adult: NZD 32
Children: NZD 13
Senior citizen: NZD 23
2. Waiheke Island
Take a one-hour ferry ride from downtown Auckland to the stunning island of Waiheke. It is known for its great vineyards, beaches, and restaurants. The white sand beaches like Oneroa, Palm, Surfdale, and Onetangi are ideal for kayaking and swimming and are favourite activities among those who want to go backpacking in Auckland. You can sip wine while lying on the beach or take on some adventure sports and hiking, it has something exciting for everyone making Waiheke a popular getaway from the bustling city life. Spend a night here to enjoy it to the fullest.
Pricing:
Ferry Prices- One way: NZD 27 Return: NZD 42 (Adult).
3. Hauraki Gulf
Surrounded by 50 islands with Rangitoto, Motutapu, and Great Barrier Island among them, Hauraki Gulf is a quick getaway for trips. Ferry rides are easily available and are exciting as well, with views of the island coastlines and dolphins popping out of the waters. Rangitoto Island is one of the popular attractions. Climb to the summit of this extinct volcano for the splendid 360˚ view of the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland city. You can also explore the lava tunnels formed due to the passage of molten lava. Going further, you can treat yourself to free thermal pools of Kaitoke at the Great Barrier Island. You can also surf in Whangapoua and Awana.Ferry from Auckland to:
Rangitoto Island: NZD 36 (Return)
Great Barrier Island: NZD 90 (One way)
Motutapu Island: NZD 39 (Return).
4. Explore the Suburbs
Auckland has 13 suburbs surrounding the city. Each one offers something interesting to backpackers. You can climb the volcanic cone on Mount Eden, the city's highest natural point, which gives incredible views of the city and other suburbs. Visit the largest forest native to Auckland - Hanua. Hanua Falls is the main attraction and is very picturesque, so much so that it features among the top 10 picture-perfect glimpses while backpacking in Auckland. Trekking and biking are quite popular too.
5. Taste Food and Wine
Enjoy Auckland’s diverse food and wine culture in the city's heart and in the farmers' market to smack on the local flavours. The famous Britomart, a casual dining area, is close to the Waitemata Harbor. There are other options too, like Viaduct Harbour, where you can enjoy eating with a beautiful backdrop of the waters and yachts. Visit some of the famous markets to get a taste of Auckland. Some of the popular ones are La Cigale in Parnell City markets, Otara market and Matakana market. Matakana is also the place for tasting Auckland's world-class wine and Kumeu, which is equally good.
Affordable Places to Stay While Backpacking in Auckland:
- LyLo Auckland
Lylo Hostel in Auckland welcomes budget-conscious backpackers with vibrant communal spaces, affordable accommodations, and a central location, fostering a social atmosphere for memorable experiences on a shoestring budget.
- Verandahs Parkside Lodge
Verandahs Parkside Lodge in Auckland is a haven for budget travelers, offering affordable accommodations with a touch of comfort. Centrally located, it provides a peaceful retreat and a welcoming atmosphere for backpackers seeking a relaxed and budget-friendly stay.
- Haka Lodge
Located in the main area of the Auckland CBD, this lodge has pod beds for those seeking privacy. It is very spacious for a hostel, with a private bathroom and a shared kitchen.
- Attic Backpackers
With an excellent location in Auckland's CBD, they offer mixed and female-only accommodations with shared bathrooms. Owing to its location, it is ideal for night outs to the Britomart. Don't hesitate to use their free Wi-Fi to keep your Instagram updated! COST: NZD 24
Tips to Save Money While Backpacking in Auckland
- COOK YOUR FOOD: Eating at restaurants and cafes can be expensive in Auckland, while cooking yourself is more economical, especially if you have a long stay. You can buy groceries from cheap supermarkets and cook yourself a delicious meal.
- WWOOFING: WWOOFING is a great way to arrange your accommodation and food. In exchange for working, you get free food and accommodation. It is quite popular with travellers since it lets you remain in a spot for cheaper and longer.
- WORK FOR ACCOMMODATION: Many people in New Zealand are open to offering a bed in exchange for cleaning, housekeeping, etc.
- AVAIL DISCOUNTS: Keep an eye on discounts while visiting a place or in newsletters and loyalty cards. Often, there are special discounts for backpackers, so make sure you do not let them go.
- PLAN YOUR ACTIVITIES: You can do many activities in Auckland, ranging from nature walks to adventure sports. If you do not plan and decide what you really want to do, your money will slip away from your bank account in seconds.
- ENJOY NATURE: All good things are wild and free! Nature is the best thing in Auckland, hands down. You can go hiking, trekking, and walking on islands in the Hauraki Gulf and enjoy nature. Have fun amidst different landscapes in Auckland, ranging from volcanoes to forests and beaches.