Roberta Aguirre
If you're looking for things to do around Auckland Airport, there are plenty of options to keep you entertained. For those with a sweet tooth, there's amazing ice cream to enjoy at Ambury Farm, which is also a great spot for a family barbecue. If you're looking for something more active, there's Rocket Ropes, Auckland's only urban high ropes activity park, or you can try your hand at mini golf. You can also take a shuttle to Auckland CBD or set sail on the sparkling waters of Auckland's Waitemata Harbour. For a more tranquil experience, the Auckland Botanic Gardens are home to over 10,000 plants from across the world. And, of course, there are plenty of dining and shopping options available at the airport itself.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance from the airport | Within 20 minutes' drive of the airport |
| Attractions | Auckland Botanic Gardens, Butterfly Creek, Rainbow's End, Rocket Ropes, Villa Maria Cafe and Cellar, Ambury Farm, One Tree Hill Domain, Waitemata Harbour, Sky Tower, Mount Eden, Devonport, Auckland Museum, Howick Historical Village, Nixon Road Walkway, Mangere Mountain, Treasure Island Mini Golf, JK’s World of Golf |
| Amenities | Restaurants, cafes, airport lounges, shopping, free showers, massage chairs, arcades, golf, paintball |
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What You'll Learn
Visit Butterfly Creek, home to Australasia's premier tropical butterfly house
Butterfly Creek is a fantastic family-friendly attraction located near Auckland Airport. It is home to Australasia's premier tropical butterfly house, with approximately 800 butterflies. The site is very easy to navigate, and you can expect to see everything in around 2 to 3 hours. There is something for everyone at Butterfly Creek, from cute animals to a prehistoric-themed Dinosaur Kingdom.
The park has a unique collection of animals, insects, and critters. You can see the world's most aggressive predator, the Australian Crocodile, up close, along with two giant saltwater crocodiles, alligators, and tropical aquaria. The park has also established a breeding program for the endangered Giant Wetapunga. In addition to the butterfly house, you can explore the petting zoo, where rabbits, guinea pigs, sheep, calves, and goats are well cared for by the keepers.
Butterfly Creek also offers a glimpse into a prehistoric world with its Dinosaur Kingdom. This attraction features more than 50 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. You can walk among the enormous herbivores and encounter fierce carnivores, including a T-Rex, Velociraptor, and a massive 24-metre Diplodocus. The park also features a mythical creatures exhibit, where you can meet unicorns, fairies, and mermaids.
The site offers a range of amenities to make your visit comfortable and enjoyable. These include a parent's room, toilets, and high chairs available at the cafe. You can also purchase a day pass for unlimited entry to the whole park or take advantage of their annual passes if you plan to visit multiple times. The cafe and playground are free to enter if you want to stop by for a quick coffee and play.
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Explore Auckland Botanic Gardens, spanning over 64 hectares
If you're looking for a place to relax and connect with nature, look no further than the Auckland Botanic Gardens, a mere 20 minutes away from the airport. Entry is free, and the gardens are open every day of the year, making them a must-visit destination.
Spanning over 64 hectares, the gardens showcase a diverse range of native and exotic plant species, complemented by picturesque lakes and a growing collection of large-scale outdoor sculptures by renowned New Zealand artists. The award-winning Potter Children's Garden is a highlight, offering a fun and interactive space for kids to explore and learn about nature.
The gardens provide well-maintained walkways, making it a delightful place to stroll and take in the vibrant flora. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, pack a picnic or enjoy a meal at Cafe Miko, located within the Huakaiwaka Visitor Centre, offering stunning views of the gardens. The centre also features changing displays that showcase the beauty and fascinating facts about plants, making it an informative stop during your visit.
With ongoing planting and a focus on education, the Auckland Botanic Gardens offer something for all ages. Visitors can learn about native plants, birds, and stream creatures, making it an ideal place to bring children, who will also enjoy the playground and ample space to run and explore. The gardens are a well-kept secret, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and a chance to delight your senses and discover hidden gems around every corner.
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Take a shuttle to Auckland CBD and sail on Waitemata Harbour
If you're looking for things to do around Auckland Airport, why not take a shuttle to Auckland CBD and sail on the beautiful Waitemata Harbour? Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
First, you can easily get from Auckland Airport to the city centre by taking a shuttle. Once you arrive in the CBD, you'll find yourself with plenty of options to get out on the water. You can choose from a range of sailing experiences, including relaxed harbour cruises, sailing on an America's Cup Yacht, or even dining on the harbour under sail. As you sail along, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Auckland Harbour Bridge, the city skyline, and even some volcanic peaks.
If you're feeling more adventurous, you can also hire your own yacht from the Viaduct Basin and explore the harbour at your own pace. Or, if you prefer, take a regular ferry from the lower city to old Devonport, where you'll find cafes and walks galore. For a truly unique perspective, don't miss the chance to sail under the iconic Harbour Bridge and take in the city highlights from the water.
Before or after your sailing adventure, be sure to explore the vibrant waterfront area. Stretching from Britomart to Silo Park, you'll discover an array of bars and restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets. Whether you're craving fish and chips or fine dining, there's something for everyone. And with kids' play areas along the way, it's a perfect spot for families too.
So, if you're looking for a blend of relaxation and exploration, a sail on Waitemata Harbour is the perfect choice. Just a short shuttle ride from Auckland Airport, you can soon be soaking up the stunning views and enjoying the unique Auckland landscape from the water.
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Visit Rainbow's End, Auckland's outdoor entertainment hub
If you're looking for outdoor entertainment near Auckland Airport, look no further than Rainbows End. Located in Manukau, Auckland, this 23-acre theme park is packed with over 20 rides and attractions for all ages. The park is easily accessible, whether you're travelling by car, train, or bus.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Rainbows End delivers with thrilling rides like Stratosfear, Fearfall, and Power Surge. If you're feeling extra daring, take on the 18-story Intamin drop ride, Fear Fall, which reaches speeds of up to 80 km/h. The Big Five is another favourite for thrill-seekers. For a magical experience, hop on the classic Enchanted Forest Log Flume, which features minor drops and a larger drop at the end. The park also offers family-friendly attractions such as Bumper Boats, Karts, and the Scorpion Karts go-kart track for older guests.
Younger visitors will delight in Kidz Kingdom, a dedicated area for children 8 years and under, with plenty of rides and indoor entertainment. Another highlight for kids is AA Driver's Town, where they can test their driving skills in miniature Suzuki Swift vehicles on a miniature town track.
The park also boasts a large up-charge arcade and gaming area called Rainbow Playlab. Here, you'll find arcades, virtual reality experiences, E-Sports gaming, and escape rooms. Rainbows End truly offers something for everyone, and with just one entry price, you can enjoy unlimited rides throughout your visit.
In addition to its exciting attractions, Rainbows End has received numerous accolades. It has won multiple awards for its employee programmes and marketing excellence. In 2015, it was a finalist in the Tourism Industry Awards and received a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence. With its variety of rides, entertainment, and recognition, Rainbows End is a must-visit outdoor entertainment hub near Auckland Airport.
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Enjoy the views from Sky Tower or Mount Eden
If you're looking for a panoramic view of Auckland, look no further than the Sky Tower or Mount Eden.
Sky Tower
The Sky Tower is an iconic part of Auckland's skyline, offering stunning 360-degree views of the city and surrounding area from 186 metres above street level. It's an impressive structure, standing at 328 metres tall and dominating the Auckland skyline for over 25 years. The tower has three observation decks, allowing visitors to spot key landmarks, 53 volcanoes, and other historical locations within the greater Tāmaki Makaurau area. The tower also offers adrenaline-pumping activities such as walking the outside of the building or jumping off it! For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the Sky Tower features award-winning dining options, including a revolving restaurant and sky-high bar, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Mount Eden
Mount Eden, a leafy suburb of Auckland, is home to Maungawhau / Mount Eden, a dormant volcano that is the highest natural point on the Auckland isthmus. The suburb boasts a range of architectural styles, from 19th-century Victorian villas to modern apartments and bungalows. The central focus, Maungawhau, has a rich history, having been used as a fortified hill pā by various Māori iwi (tribes) before European settlement. Today, it offers a great vantage point to take in the surrounding area, including views of Ambury Farm and One Tree Hill.
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Frequently asked questions
There are plenty of family-friendly activities near Auckland Airport. Butterfly Creek, a short walk from the airport, is home to Australasia's Tropical Butterfly House, giant crocs, and baby alligators. There's also a lake and park beside Butterfly Creek, which is perfect for a walk and a bite to eat. Ambury Farm is another great option, where you can see farm animals up close and enjoy a BBQ. Villa Maria Cafe and Cellar is also a good choice, offering wine tasting, platters, and a sandpit and climbing wall for kids.
For those with a long layover, the Auckland Botanic Gardens, spanning over 64 hectares, is a beautiful and tranquil setting home to over 10,000 plants from across the world. The International Terminal at the airport also has two arcades offering games and small rides, perfect for killing time. If you have at least 7 hours, you can head into downtown Auckland and visit the Sky Tower for panoramic urban views or hike up Mount Eden for stunning harbour views.
There are plenty of dining options near Auckland Airport, including international chains such as Dunkin' Donuts, Burger King, and McDonald's. For a sit-down meal, try Wondertree, Blue Marble Lane, or Ahora Cafe & Bar. Percy and Kawau Kitchen are also nice cafes in the area.
