Posts

The Best Views in Auckland: Where to See the City Shine

  Auckland is a city of views — from volcanic cones to sweeping harbours, there are endless places to see it from new angles. Here’s a guide to the best. Natural Viewpoints Mt Eden (Maungawhau) – Panoramic views of the CBD and beyond. One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie) – Expansive green space and historic obelisk. North Head – Overlooking Devonport, with old tunnels and great harbour views. Rangitoto Island Summit – A ferry trip + short hike rewards you with the best volcanic view in the region. Urban Viewpoints Sky Tower – Iconic, with observation decks and thrill activities. Harbour Bridge – Drive, walk, or climb it for epic perspectives. Hotel Rooftops – Many in the CBD offer drinks + views. A Moving Viewpoint: The Routemaster Bus While static viewpoints are amazing, sometimes the best view is when the city itself moves around you. That’s why the Vintage Views Double Decker Discovery Tour is a must-do. From the top deck of a restored 1960s Londo...

From London to Auckland — The Journey of the Routemaster Bus

  Introduction Few vehicles are as instantly recognisable as the red London Routemaster. For decades, these buses defined the streets of London. Today, only a handful remain in operation worldwide. One of them now calls Auckland home, thanks to Vintage Views . The History of the Routemaster Launched in 1956, the Routemaster was revolutionary — lightweight aluminium construction, iconic front grille, and the open rear platform that made it easy to hop on and off. They became a symbol of London life, immortalised in films, photographs, and postcards. The Global Journey As London modernised its fleet, Routemasters were retired. Many were scrapped, but some were exported to other countries. They became collectors’ items, museum pieces, and even cafรฉ conversions. Arrival in New Zealand New Zealand received a handful of Routemasters, some of which were used for tourism. Vintage Views’ Routemaster underwent extensive restoration to bring it back to its former glory — not just as a ...

Seamless Group Transport for Every Occasion: Weddings, Corporate Events & Tours

  Seamless Group Transport for Every Occasion: Weddings, Corporate Events & Tours Transport is often the last thing people think about when planning an event — until it becomes a problem. Whether you’re managing a wedding, a corporate conference, or a multi-day tour, the solution is the same: professional coach hire . ๐Ÿ’’ Weddings Without the Stress Kiwi Coaches provides seamless wedding transport, keeping guests together and on time. No parking issues, no late arrivals, and no worries about safety after the reception. ๐Ÿข Corporate Conferences & Staff Events Businesses across Auckland rely on Kiwi Coaches for reliable, eco-friendly transport to conferences, retreats, and airport transfers. One coach keeps your team together and on schedule. ๐ŸŽ–️ Multi-Day Touring with Honour Bound When it comes to longer journeys, Honour Bound takes group travel to another level. Their 20-day Military Heritage & Scenic Tour is powered by Kiwi Coaches, combining luxury transport w...

The Top 5 Views in Auckland You’ll See from Our Routemaster

  Auckland is called the City of Sails for good reason. Surrounded by sparkling harbours, volcanic hills, and a skyline that blends modern and historic, it’s one of the most scenic cities in the Southern Hemisphere. But while you can discover Auckland on foot, by car, or even by ferry, nothing compares to seeing the city from the top deck of a vintage 1960s Routemaster double-decker bus . With an elevated perspective and wide, open views, the Double-Decker Discovery Tour takes you past the city’s most photogenic spots in just 90 minutes. Here are the top 5 views you’ll enjoy from aboard our Routemaster . 1. ๐ŸŒ‰ The Auckland Harbour Bridge & Skyline Few views are as thrilling as crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge . From the top deck, the city skyline stretches out across the water, with the Sky Tower rising high above the CBD. Daytime: See the bustle of the harbour, sailboats dotting the Waitematฤ, and the blue waters stretching to the horizon. Evening: Watch the...

Touring Auckland Without the Stress: Why Coaches Work Best

  Touring Auckland Without the Stress: Why Coaches Work Best Auckland is a city of contrasts — sparkling harbours, volcanic cones, vibrant culture, and stunning day trips nearby. But exploring it as a group can quickly turn stressful. Parking is limited, traffic is busy, and public transport doesn’t always go where tourists want to go. That’s why coach hire is the best way to tour Auckland — comfortable, stress-free, and perfect for groups of all sizes. ๐ŸŒ‰ Stress-Free City Touring A coach takes your group directly to the city’s highlights, including: Mission Bay — perfect for seaside strolls Parnell & Ponsonby — boutique shopping and dining Auckland War Memorial Museum — a cultural and historical gem Auckland Harbour Bridge — iconic views No need to worry about parking, maps, or splitting groups into multiple taxis. ๐Ÿ—บ️ Easy Day Trips Beyond the City From Auckland, some of New Zealand’s most famous destinations are just a short drive away. Coaches ar...

Top 7 Photo Spots in Auckland for Instagram in 2025

  Introduction Auckland is a dream for photographers and content creators. From volcanic cones to harbourside sunsets, here are the best Instagram spots in Auckland for 2025 . 1. Mission Bay Beach Palm trees, fountain, Rangitoto backdrop. 2. Mt Eden Summit Panoramic views of city + harbour. 3. Sky Tower Observation Deck 360-degree skyline. 4. Auckland Harbour Bridge Best captured at sunset. 5. Devonport Waterfront Colourful villas and harbour reflections. 6. Ponsonby Murals Street art backdrops for portraits. 7. The Routemaster Bus The ultimate Instagram prop — vintage, red, and eye-catching. Tips for Photographers Golden hour = best lighting. Bring a tripod for skyline shots. Hashtags: #AucklandViews #VintageBusNZ ❓ FAQs Q: Which spot is best at sunrise? Mission Bay. Q: Which is best for couples? Devonport or the Routemaster. ๐Ÿ Conclusion Auckland is full of photo-worthy backdrops, from nature to city lights. Add the Routemaster into your gal...

The Best Sunset Spots in Auckland (2025 Guide)

  Introduction Sunsets in Auckland are unforgettable, whether over beaches, volcanoes, or the city skyline. Here are the top sunset spots in Auckland for 2025 . Mission Bay Beachfront sunset with Rangitoto silhouette. Mt Eden Elevated volcanic cone with panoramic views. Piha Beach Rugged west coast waves and Lion Rock. Mt Victoria (Devonport) Harbour skyline glows at dusk. Sky Tower Observation Deck City lights flicker on as the sun sets. Bonus: Routemaster Views Sunset rides give golden-hour light for incredible photos from the top deck. ❓ FAQs Q: Which spot is best for couples? Mission Bay or Mt Victoria. Q: Which is easiest to reach? Sky Tower and Mission Bay. ๐Ÿ Conclusion Sunsets in Auckland are a daily spectacle. See them from beaches, cones, or the Routemaster for a moving golden-hour experience. ๐Ÿ‘‰ Book your golden-hour ride at VintageViews.co.nz .