Auckland is a banger for a romantic trip away! You could forgive many Aussies and Kiwis for overlooking their neighbouring city – after all, it’s not as obvious as Bali or Thailand – but the romance of the city lies in its alternative offering of natural experiences and cultural delights.
Fresh produce, sun-drenched vineyards and rugged coastline offer an alternative flavour to a romantic getaway. If you plan on venturing south, fuel up in the city before venturing to Middle Earth.
Not sure where to start? Here are the top 12 romantic things to do in Auckland.
1. Go wine tasting at Waiheke Island
2. Geek out on the Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves tour
3. Sailing experiences
4. Gaze at the stars
5. Watch the sunrise
6. Dine on fresh produce at Viaduct Harbour
7. Take a stroll through Auckland Botanic Gardens
8. Discover nature on the Auckland Highlights & West Coast Tour
9. See dolphins and picnic on the Bay of Islands & Waitangi tour
10. Take in the views from Auckland’s Sky Tower
11. Learn something new together at the Auckland War Memorial Museum
12. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Mission Bay
And if you're travelling to Queenstown, check out the cutest date ideas in Queenstown.
1. Go wine tasting at Waiheke Island
Toast your romance and go wine tasting at Waiheke Island! Hop aboard a catamaran, and experience a luxury 40-minute ferry ride between Auckland City and Waiheke Island.
Explore the island's walking trail or just relax and stroll around the beautiful white sand beach!
2. Geek out on the Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves tour
You’re never too old to believe in fantasy, and visiting Hobbiton will keep you in touch with the inner geek in ya! It’s well known that The Hobbit trilogy was filmed entirely in New Zealand, so if you and your other half want to walk in the footsteps of Frodo and Bilbo Baggins then the Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves tour is a unique idea for a date.
A must-do excursion for Lord of the Rings geeks, this day trip includes coach transfers and a guided tour of Hobbiton to see multiple ‘hobbit holes’, the mill and double-arch bridge. You’ll also pop into the famous Green Dragon Inn where you can sample a glass of cider or ginger beer. Lunch includes a Hobbit-themed buffet before heading off for a guided tour of the Waitomo Caves. The cave tour is a magical 45 minutes through a network of underground caverns where you’ll see awesome limestone structures, stalagmites and stalactites.
Or if you prefer to just check out Hobbiton on its own:
3. Sailing experiences
Wining and dining is great, but for a unique date idea jump onboard a yacht sailing tour! There are plenty of trips available on Auckland’s Waitemata Harbour to add to your book of cool experiences.
Many cruises include a guided tour, so you’ll be able to pick out some of Auckland’s famous landmarks along the way. Or, you relax into a dinner cruise experience if you prefer to a relaxing evening on the waters.
4. Gaze at the stars
Although the South Island is famous for its clear night skies, Auckland is an amazing place to gaze at the stars. There are lots of date ideas to try including Tawharanui, a fine beach spot just 90 minutes from the city. As the night draws in, the sky is strewn with stars, so lay back on your blanket and enjoy. The beaches of Piha and Awhitu are also great stargazing beach venues.
If you fancy a night of camping, Te Haruhi Bay campground in the dunes of Shakespear Regional Park provides the perfect venue to snuggle up beneath a blanket of stars. If you’re short on time, Auckland’s very own Stardome Observatory Planetarium in Cornwall Park offers a host of interactive shows and experiences.'
5. Watch the sunrise
Is there really an activity more romantic than watching the sunrise together with your significant other? Auckland has a variety of spots that offer spectacular points to watch the sunrise, so pack a breakfast picnic, set down a blanket and snuggle up to watch Mother Nature do her thing!
For the best early-morning light shows, head to the east coast to spots such as Bucklands Beach, Eastern Beach or Murrays Bay. Another great place to watch the sunrise is Bastion Point, where the reflection of light on Waitemata Harbour offers spectacular photo moments. One Tree Hill is another popular vantage point. Not only is this one of Auckland’s 48 volcanic cones, it also offers epic 360-degree views of the city.
6. Dine on fresh produce at Viaduct Harbour
Cosy meals and candlelit suppers are key in any relationship so be sure to enjoy Auckland’s excellent dining scene. Auckland is a foodies’ paradise and is home to world-class producers, winemakers and chefs. This is reflected in its classy yet authentic gastronomy that prides itself on using the best local ingredients, lovingly prepared.
When you’re looking for a relaxed yet elegant place to eat, Viaduct Harbour is the place to be. With more than 30 bars and restaurants to choose from, it’s one of Auckland’s most popular eating and entertainment hubs.
Viaduct Harbour offers the perfect venue for dining, whatever your budget – you’ll find funky rooftop cocktail bars with harbour views as well intimate bistros. It’s also a great place to plan your day with a selection of harbourside cafes, perfect for a mid-morning coffee and cake as well as tasty breakfasts.
7. Take a stroll through Auckland Botanic Gardens
Don’t bother sending your other half a beautiful bouquet – instead, take them to the beautiful Auckland Botanic Gardens where a kaleidoscope of colourful plants and flowers await.
The gardens is located about 25km out of town but it’s well worth the effort. You’ll find themed gardens showcasing more than 10,000 species of plants from around the globe. Whatever time of year you visit, there’s always something in bloom – and romance in the air! For a sensory feast, the Camellia Garden, with its petal-strewn paths, cheerful birdlife and fabulous scent, will delight. And what could be more romantic than a stroll through the Rose Garden, with its rambling rose-covered arches, pathways and heady aromas?
Combine your day with lunch at Café Miko in the Huakaiwaka visitor centre, which offers garden views and sources all its fresh ingredients from the edible garden.
8. Discover nature on the Auckland Highlights & West Coast Tour
Find yourself in awe of the majestic waterfalls and lush rainforests
If you want to use your time wisely, organised trips are a must, and the Auckland Highlights with West Coast Experience tour is a great-value all-rounder. Spend a full day experiencing the best of Auckland with time basking in the natural landscapes of the jaw-dropping West Coast.
You can expect views of the magnificent Hauraki Gulf and exotic islands on this tour! Included in the tour is time spent in Parnell, the location of many early Maori and European settlements. You'll see remarkable rainforests, waterfalls and kauri trees along the way, and you’ll learn about native birds and plants at the Arataki Visitor Centre. Offering a mix of city highlights, natural wonder and culture, this tour is a must for on your Auckland wish list.
9. See dolphins and picnic on the Bay of Islands & Waitangi tour
When it comes to romantic day trips from Auckland, it doesn’t get much better than the Bay of Islands and Waitangi tour. This action-packed day starts with some show-stopping scenery along the North Shore and Hibiscus Coast.
The first stop is the Waitangi Treaty House, this building has immense historic significance- It was here the Maoris and Europeans signed a treaty formalising New Zealand’s separation and independence from the British Empire.
After this, you’ll enjoy a cruise to Bay of Islands, including Motukokako, where you’ll pass through the famous 210-foot hole in the rock formation which forms the base of this mini islet. And keep your eyes peeled for bottlenose dolphins while you’re out there! The trip includes your transfers, cruise, admission fees to attractions and a picnic lunch.
10. Take in the views from Auckland’s Sky Tower
Dominating the Auckland skyline is the cloud-piercing Sky Tower. At 328 metres high, it’s the tallest structure in the southern hemisphere and offers an array of date ideas. With stunning views from the viewing deck, award-winning restaurants and a gift shop, this is a city landmark not to be missed.
Adventurous couples can up the ante with a SkyJump. You’ll get 11 seconds of adrenaline-pumping fun as you descend 53 floors at speeds of around 85kph! Alternatively, walk the external perimeter with safety harnesses, but no handrails, on a walk that’s definitely not for the faint-hearted. If the thought of high-altitude high jinks is making your palms sweaty, a more relaxing experience can be had at Orbit 360° Dining at SKYCITY Auckland. This is Auckland’s only 360-degree revolving restaurant, with cuisine from top fusion chef Peter Gordon.
11. Learn something new together at the Auckland War Memorial Museum
For art and history lovers, Auckland provides plenty of food for thought – the best way to keep your relationship fresh and intellectually stimulating. The Auckland War Memorial Museum is a fascinating space packed with interactive experiences and galleries reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The museum is situated in Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park. Make sure you spend an hour or two at the Auckland Art Gallery Toi O Tamaki, too – it’s a cool space brimming with paintings, sculptures and sketches old and new. With more than 15,000 works, it’s a must-see attraction, and the café is the perfect spot to enjoy an afternoon coffee and cake. The TSB Wallace Arts Centre, located in the Pah Homestead in Hillsborough’s Monte Cecilia Park, is also worthy of your time and offers a mix of art gallery and museum exhibits.
12. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Mission Bay
If you want to chill out with your loved one and reminisce, it’s time to head to Mission Bay. This is the most accessible beach resort from downtown Auckland and serves up a white-sand beach, grassy picnic spots and plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes. If you fancy a stroll, head up to the Michael Savage Memorial.
Its hilltop location is the ideal spot for a moment of reflection and from here you can enjoy spectacular views across Waitemata Harbour and Rangitoto Island. If you’re feeling adventurous, hire a pair of Mission Bay Waterbikes to escape the crowds. Alternatively, hire a bike or rollerblades to explore the sights of Mission Bay.
Tick off your bucket-list date ideas in Auckland
Visiting a new destination can strengthen relationships. Shared experiences are what romance is all about – plus, the memories you make during a trip to Auckland will last much longer than the dozen roses you got her for Valentines Day! Offering something for foodies, thrill-seekers and good old-fashioned romantics, it’s little wonder Auckland remains a top destination for couples.
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