Scenic & Beautiful Auckland

  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...

  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 café 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 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 . 💒 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. 🏢 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. 🎖️ 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...

  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. 🌉 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 Waitematā, and the blue waters stretching to the horizon. Evening: Watch the...

  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. 🌉 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. 🗺️ Easy Day Trips Beyond the City From Auckland, some of New Zealand’s most famous destinations are just a short drive away. Coaches ar...

  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. 🏁 Conclusion Auckland is full of photo-worthy backdrops, from nature to city lights. Add the Routemaster into your gal...

  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. 🏁 Conclusion Sunsets in Auckland are a daily spectacle. See them from beaches, cones, or the Routemaster for a moving golden-hour experience. 👉 Book your golden-hour ride at VintageViews.co.nz .

  Introduction Auckland is a city between two harbours, meaning stunning coastal walks are everywhere. Here are the best coastal walks in Auckland for 2025 . Tamaki Drive Coastal Path Flat, easy walk from CBD to Mission Bay. Perfect for families and cyclists. Devonport to Cheltenham Heritage streets, calm beach views. Takapuna to Milford Beachfront path linking two lively suburbs. Te Atatū Peninsula Walkway Long, flat track with harbour and city views. Rangitoto Island Coastal Tracks Volcanic island with unique coastal landscapes. Tips for Walkers Best times: early morning or sunset. Bring water and sunscreen. Check tides for beachside walks. ❓ FAQs Q: Which walk is best for families? Tamaki Drive and Devonport to Cheltenham. Q: Which is most scenic? Takapuna to Milford for Rangitoto views. 🏁 Conclusion Auckland’s coastal walks combine fresh air with breathtaking scenery. And for a different kind of elevated view, take a Rou...

  Introduction Auckland is a photographer’s dream, with everything from volcanic summits to city skylines. Whether you’re building your Instagram or simply love landscapes, here are the most beautiful photo spots in Auckland for 2025 . 1. Sky Tower & Skyline Day or night shots with reflections on the harbour. 2. Viaduct Harbour Yachts Luxury boats and waterfront lights. 3. Mission Bay Fountain Lit up at night for colourful long exposures. 4. Piha Beach Lion Rock silhouettes and sunsets. 5. Parnell Rose Gardens Perfect for romantic portraits. 6. Mt Victoria Sunset City and harbour glowing golden. 7. Devonport Ferry Onboard shots with skyline backdrop. 8. Routemaster Bus A moving icon that’s as photogenic as the landmarks. Tips for Photography Golden hour = best lighting. Use a tripod for night shots. Don’t forget candid street photography. ❓ FAQs Q: Where’s the best sunrise photo spot? Takapuna Beach with Rangitoto in the background. Q: Can I ...

  Introduction With its mix of volcanoes, harbours, and skyline, Auckland is best enjoyed from above. Whether you’re after sunrise views, romantic sunsets, or night photography, here are the best lookouts in Auckland for 2025 . 1. Sky Tower The city’s highest vantage point. 2. Mt Eden / Maungawhau Panoramic views from a volcanic crater. 3. One Tree Hill / Maungakiekie Sweeping views over parks and suburbs. 4. Bastion Point Coastal headland with history and harbour views. 5. Mt Victoria (Devonport) Best skyline sunsets. 6. Rangitoto Summit A half-day walk to Auckland’s most iconic volcanic island. Tips for Visitors Sunrise = east coast beaches. Sunset = west coast cliffs. Night = Mt Eden and Sky Tower. ❓ FAQs Q: Which lookout is easiest to reach? Mt Eden and Bastion Point. Q: What’s the most romantic spot? Mt Victoria at sunset. 🏁 Conclusion From towers to cones, Auckland’s views are world-class. For a moving lookout that doesn’t require hiking, ...

  Introduction Auckland isn’t just about sunsets — its sunrises are spectacular , lighting up Rangitoto Island, beaches, and the city skyline. Early risers are rewarded with some of the most peaceful and beautiful moments the city can offer. 1. Mission Bay Sunrise over Rangitoto with reflections on the water. 2. Mt Eden Panoramic views of both harbours. 3. Bastion Point Peaceful headland with coastal views. 4. Takapuna Beach Sunrise with Rangitoto as a backdrop. 5. Devonport Wharf Catch the first light shimmering on the skyline. 6. Mangere Mountain Off-the-beaten-path volcanic views. Tips for Sunrise Seekers Arrive 15–20 minutes early. Best months: October–March for long days. Bring a thermos of coffee and camera. ❓ FAQs Q: What’s the easiest sunrise spot to reach? Mission Bay or Bastion Point. Q: Which is best for photography? Takapuna Beach for Rangitoto sunrise shots. 🏁 Conclusion Sunrise is Auckland at its most magical. For a different eleva...

  Introduction Two harbours, 53 volcanoes, and endless coastlines make Auckland one of the most scenic cities on earth. Whether you’re into sunsets, skyline photos, or just relaxing, here are the best Auckland harbour views for 2025 . Sky Tower Day and night panoramas. Mt Victoria Sunset with skyline and harbour lights. Mission Bay Waterfront strolls with Rangitoto views. Westhaven Marina Reflections of masts and city lights. Devonport Ferry Best $9 view of Auckland’s skyline. Bastion Point Scenic headland overlooking the harbour. ❓ FAQs Q: Where’s the best sunset? Mt Victoria or Mission Bay. Q: Best budget harbour view? Devonport Ferry. 🏁 Conclusion Auckland’s harbour views are unforgettable. For the ultimate moving lookout, ride the Routemaster bus. 👉 Book your elevated seat today at VintageViews.co.nz .

  Introduction Military heritage tourism isn’t just about bunkers and battlefields. It’s about remembering, learning, and connecting with history in a way that books alone cannot provide. For New Zealand, it’s a story of identity. Preserving Memory Every site is a reminder of those who served and sacrificed. Touring them keeps memory alive. Education Through Travel For veterans, families, and younger generations, visiting heritage sites makes history tangible. Scenic Context New Zealand’s military history is set against breathtaking backdrops — harbours, mountains, islands. This fusion makes heritage touring unique. Honour Bound’s Role We blend history with travel: Guided commentary Access to lesser-known sites A respectful, reflective journey ❓ FAQs Q: Is military tourism just for veterans? No — it’s for anyone curious about history and culture. Q: What makes NZ unique for heritage tours? The combination of military history and stunning landscapes. 🏁 ...

  Introduction Auckland is a city built for Instagram. From volcanic cones to coastal sunsets, every angle seems camera-ready. Here are the top 10 Instagrammable spots in Auckland for 2025 . Sky Tower Day or night, this is the city’s icon. Best view: sunset. Piha’s Lion Rock Wild west coast waves and sunsets. Mount Eden Crater A natural amphitheatre with skyline backdrop. Auckland Harbour Bridge Dramatic at night with city lights behind. Parnell Rose Gardens Romantic blooms in summer. Mission Bay Fountain Lit at night for colourful water shots. Devonport Ferry Classic harbour views from the boat. Oneroa Beach, Waiheke Golden sand + blue sea = perfect contrast. Viaduct Harbour Luxury yachts and reflections. Vintage Views Routemaster Bus A moving photo backdrop, unique in NZ. ❓ FAQs Q: What’s the best time for Instagram shots? Golden hour (sunrise/sunset). Q: Which spot is best for couples? Parnell Rose Gardens or Mission Bay at sunset. 🏁 Conclusion Fr...

  Introduction Auckland is nicknamed the “City of Views” for a reason. With volcanic cones, seaside cliffs, and tall towers, there’s no shortage of lookouts where you can see the city spread out before you. This guide covers the best lookouts in Auckland for 2025 , perfect for photographers, couples, and anyone who loves a good view. 🌋 Mt Eden / Maungawhau The city’s highest volcanic cone, offering a 360° view. The summit crater adds drama to the scene. Tip: Visit at sunrise to avoid crowds. 🏞️ Mt Victoria (Devonport) Overlooking the harbour and CBD, Mt Victoria also features WWII tunnels and gun emplacements. 🌳 One Tree Hill / Maungakiekie A culturally significant site, One Tree Hill provides sweeping views of both harbours and the surrounding parks. 🌅 Bastion Point / Takaparawhau Overlooking Mission Bay, this spot offers a mix of cultural history and stunning sea views. 🌌 Sky Tower A paid attraction, but worth mentioning. The observation deck at 220m provid...

  Introduction Golden hour transforms Auckland into a photographer’s dream. With its mix of harbours, volcanic cones, and beaches, the city offers countless places to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Here are the best sunset spots in Auckland for 2025 . 1. Mount Victoria (Devonport) A short ferry ride from the city, Mount Victoria offers one of the best panoramic views of Auckland’s skyline. As the sun sets, the harbour lights begin to sparkle. 2. Mission Bay Popular with locals and tourists, Mission Bay is the perfect blend of casual and scenic. Grab fish and chips and watch the sun drop behind Rangitoto Island. 3. Piha Beach The wild west coast delivers dramatic sunsets. Lion Rock makes a striking silhouette, and the black sand glows gold as the sun dips low. 4. Mount Eden / Maungawhau Central and iconic, Mt Eden gives you views of both harbours. It’s popular, but the vistas are worth it. 5. Westhaven Marina A more relaxed option, Westhaven offers reflections ...

  Why Auckland is Perfect for Families Auckland isn’t just New Zealand’s largest city — it’s also one of its most family-friendly. With beaches, volcanoes, museums, and parks, there’s something to keep every age group entertained. The challenge is pulling it all together into a single day that keeps kids happy, parents relaxed, and everyone creating memories. That’s where a little planning — and a unique way to travel — makes all the difference. Here’s our complete 2025 guide to family sightseeing in Auckland . 🐘 Morning Adventures: Animals, Science & Play Start your day with activities that excite children and engage parents too. Auckland Zoo : Home to over 135 species, from elephants and giraffes to native kiwi birds. The zoo is compact enough for little legs but diverse enough to keep teenagers interested. MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology) : Vintage trams, interactive science exhibits, and a historic aviation hall. Perfect for kids who love pressing butt...

   The Dawn of Remembrance On 25 April each year, thousands gather before sunrise. Bugles echo, silence falls, wreaths are laid. The ANZAC tradition is a living link between modern New Zealanders and those who served at Gallipoli, France, and beyond. 🏛️ Where to Experience ANZAC Day Auckland War Memorial Museum — the country’s largest dawn service. Pukeahu National War Memorial (Wellington) — central to national ceremonies. Local Cenotaphs — almost every town has one. 🚍 Honour Bound ANZAC Tours We design itineraries around ANZAC Day, ensuring guests attend dawn services while also exploring museums, bunkers, and memorials across both islands. Travelling by coach allows for shared reflection with others who understand the meaning of the day. ❓ FAQs Q: Is ANZAC Day a public holiday in NZ? Yes, nationwide. Q: Can overseas visitors attend? Yes, services are open to all. Q: Do tours sell out? Often — book well in advance. Q: What makes Honour Bound ...

  Every traveller wants the perfect photo. Here are Auckland’s top Instagrammable spots : Sky Tower – Snap the skyline from above. Mission Bay Fountain – Colourful night shots. Piha’s Lion Rock – Iconic at sunset. Mount Eden – The crater + city view. Waiheke Vineyards – Rolling green hills and ocean. Auckland Harbour Bridge – Night cityscape from below. Vintage Routemaster Bus – A piece of London on Auckland streets. 📸 Your best photo will be from the top deck of our Routemaster bus — book your tour at VintageViews.co.nz .

  The ANZAC Legacy On 25 April every year, New Zealanders gather at dawn to remember the ANZAC soldiers who fought at Gallipoli and beyond. But ANZAC heritage lives on year-round through memorials across the country. Here are New Zealand’s most powerful ANZAC memorials and tours . 1. Auckland War Memorial Museum Iconic cenotaph and galleries honouring New Zealand’s military. 2. Pukeahu National War Memorial Park (Wellington) Central to ANZAC Day commemorations. 3. Local Cenotaphs & Town Memorials Every community has one, symbolising national sacrifice. 4. ANZAC Day Tours with Honour Bound Special itineraries timed for dawn services. ❓ FAQs Q: Where is the biggest ANZAC service in NZ? Auckland Museum and Pukeahu in Wellington host the largest dawn ceremonies. Q: Can I join a guided ANZAC tour? Yes. Honour Bound runs ANZAC-themed itineraries every April. 👉 Commemorate the ANZAC spirit with expert-guided tours at HonourBound.co.nz .

  One of the best ways to see Auckland is from the window of a bus. Here are the most scenic bus routes and tours : Auckland to Devonport – A quick hop to a charming seaside town. Auckland to Mission Bay – A beautiful waterfront drive. Auckland to Piha – Wild west coast cliffs and surf. CityLink (Red Bus) – A budget-friendly central city loop. Vintage Routemaster Tour – The most iconic way to see Auckland, aboard a 1963 double-decker. 🚌 For the ultimate sightseeing ride, climb aboard Auckland’s Routemaster at VintageViews.co.nz .

  When planning a trip to New Zealand, many travellers struggle to decide between cars, trains, or tours. But the truth is: coach tours remain the most complete way to explore the country . Here are the Top 5 Coach Tours in New Zealand for 2025 : Honour Bound — 20-Day Military Heritage & Scenic Tour The most comprehensive military + scenic tour in New Zealand. Covering ANZAC sites, WWII bunkers, Māori battlefields, and stunning attractions like Milford Sound and Rotorua. Tailored for veterans, history buffs, and those who love guided storytelling. South Island Scenic Explorer Mountains, lakes, glaciers — the classic South Island postcard tour. North Island Cultural Highlights Rotorua geothermal wonders, Waitomo glowworms, Māori heritage. Coach & Rail Combo Tours Combine iconic NZ rail journeys with coach access to remote spots. Luxury Small Group Tours Boutique experiences, often paired with wine & food adventures. 💡 The Ho...

  For breathtaking scenery, Auckland doesn’t disappoint: Rangitoto Island – volcanic summit views. Piha Beach – iconic west coast surf. Waiheke Vineyards – rolling vineyards by the sea. Mount Eden – panoramic city skyline. Mission Bay – sunset on the waterfront. 🌅 For the most beautiful way to explore Auckland, ride the top deck of the vintage Routemaster bus at VintageViews.co.nz .