About Auckland
Kia ora, neighbours! ASBHM 2025 will be held in Auckland, New Zealand. Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, located on the North Island. Known as the “City of Sails,” it is surrounded by two harbors and boasts a vibrant mix of natural beauty and urban culture. With its volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and diverse population, Auckland offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cosmopolitan living. It serves as a major economic and cultural hub for the country and is a gateway for international travel.
Top Things to do When Visiting Auckland
A trip to Waiheke Island offers a perfect escape from the hustle of city life, just a short ferry ride from Auckland (40 minutes). Known for its stunning beaches, boutique vineyards, and relaxed atmosphere, the island is ideal for a day trip or weekend getaway. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting at award-winning wineries, explore scenic walking trails, or simply unwind by the sea. With its artistic community, local markets, and breathtaking coastal views, Waiheke provides a memorable blend of nature, culture, and indulgence.
The Auckland Sky Tower is an iconic landmark and the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere, standing at 328 meters. Located in the heart of the city, it offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Auckland and its surrounding harbors, islands, and skyline. Visitors can dine in the revolving restaurant, enjoy panoramic observation decks, or experience an adrenaline rush with the SkyJump or SkyWalk. Day or night, the Sky Tower is a must-visit attraction that showcases Auckland from a truly spectacular perspective.
Hobbiton, located near the town of Matamata in New Zealand’s Waikato region ( 2-hour drive from Auckland), is a magical movie set that brings the world of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films to life. The picturesque village features charming hobbit holes, the iconic Green Dragon Inn, and lush gardens that look like they’ve stepped straight out of Middle-earth. Visitors can take guided tours to learn behind-the-scenes stories and immerse themselves in the fantasy world created by Peter Jackson. Hobbiton is a must-see destination for fans of the films and anyone enchanted by storytelling and scenic beauty.
The Waitomo Caves, located in just 2.5 hours from Auckland, are famous for their stunning glowworms and impressive limestone formations. Visitors can take guided tours through underground caverns, marvel at stalactites and stalagmites, and enjoy a magical boat ride beneath thousands of twinkling glowworms. The caves offer a unique and unforgettable natural experience, blending adventure with wonder.
The Mount Eden walk in Auckland is a popular and scenic route that leads to the summit of a dormant volcanic cone, the highest natural point in the city. The gentle climb rewards walkers with panoramic views of Auckland’s skyline, harbours, and surrounding landscapes. At the top, you’ll find a large, grassy crater and informative displays about the area’s geology and Māori history. It’s a peaceful and rewarding walk, perfect for both locals and visitors wanting to experience nature and culture close to the city.
The Auckland Harbour Bridge walk offers a unique way to experience the city from above the water, with sweeping views of the Waitematā Harbour, city skyline, and beyond. Guided tours, such as the Auckland Bridge Climb, take visitors along specially constructed walkways on the bridge’s superstructure, combining a bit of adventure with stunning scenery. Along the way, participants learn about the bridge’s history and engineering, making it both an exciting and informative experience. It’s a memorable way to see Auckland from a whole new perspective.
Tiritiri Matangi Island is a wildlife sanctuary and nature lover’s paradise located in the Hauraki Gulf, just off the coast of Auckland. Renowned for its successful conservation efforts, the island is home to rare and endangered native birds such as the takahē, kōkako, and tīeke, thriving in a predator-free environment. Visitors can enjoy beautiful walking tracks through regenerating forests, guided tours by knowledgeable volunteers, and peaceful beaches perfect for a picnic. A visit to Tiritiri Matangi offers a unique opportunity to experience New Zealand’s natural heritage and biodiversity up close.
West Auckland is home to some of New Zealand’s most dramatic and beautiful coastal landscapes, with black-sand beaches and rugged cliffs shaped by the Tasman Sea. The Mercer Bay Loop Hike near Piha offers breathtaking cliff-top views, native bush, and a glimpse into Māori history with interpretive signs along the trail. Nearby, the Lake Wainamu Walk is a scenic and family-friendly route that winds past giant sand dunes and leads to a peaceful freshwater lake perfect for swimming. These walks showcase the wild, natural beauty of West Auckland and are perfect for outdoor adventurers.