Alberton House
Located on the slopes of Mt Albert this beautiful 5 star mansion was built in 1863. Explore the house and garden. This is a really unique place to visit in Auckland and see how Auckland’s wealth elite used to live.
Highwic House
This stunning Newmarket mansion was built in 1862. It’s now open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday for a small fee. This is a perfect place to visit on a Sunday afternoon.
Mansion House (Kawau Island)
It’s a little bit hard to get to this one – but totally worth the effort. Mansion House is located on Kawau Island. It’s an hour’s drive to Sandspit then a short ferry to Kawau for the day. The Luxury Mansion was once owned by one of New Zealand’s first Governors, George Grey. The house was modified and expanded several times but dates from the early 1860’s. Visiting this place is a full day’s activity.
Otuataua Stonefields
Archaeological evidence of early Māori occupation dating back to 1200 AD is clearly evident within Stonefields reserve. There’s remnants of stone and earthwork structures all over this volcanic landscape. Whare (Maori dwellings) were built on the terraces. Rua (food pits) were dug to store kumara. In addition to the Maori settlement remains there are also some old settler homesteads from the mid 1800s and a number of stone walls built by settlers to contain stock. Located in Mangere near Auckland Airport.
Couldrey House
Located in the stunning Wenderholm Regional Park looking out towards the blue waters of the Hauraki Gulf, this historic homestead is open to the public for tours. The rest of the park is beautiful too. Bring your walking shoes and combine it with a trip to the historic Puhoi Pub.
Puhoi Pub
The historic Puhoi Pub is an Auckland Icon. It’s located to the north of Auckland CDB and is a popular destination for motorbike rides. It’s also very popular with tourists heading north out of Auckland. It’s a great spot for lunch before or after visiting nearby Wenderholm Regional Park.
North Head Historic Reserve
North Head is a must visit for the view alone. The tunnels are also awesome. Built to defend Auckland during World War II. You can walk through many of the tunnels, bring a torch (flashlight).
Auckland University Heritage Trail
This is a great walk around the University in Auckland’s CBD. Highlights include Old Government House and the surrounding gardens.
Stony Batter Historic Reserve Waiheke Island
Similar to North Heads tunnels but on Waiheke so you can combine with wine tasting. The tunnels are currently closed to the public due to safety concerns, however the views from here are well worth the walk, even if you’re not that interested in the WWII tunnels.
Tired out from all that walking? Book a night or two in a luxury hotel on Waiheke.
Pah Homestead (TSB Wallace Arts Centre)
This historic Mansion built in the 1870s has been converted into an Art Gallery. It’s well worth a visit. Located halway between Auckland Airport and the CBD.
Visit Museums in Auckland
Auckland War Memorial Museum
This is one of the top places to visit in Auckland for tourists and local families. It’s without a doubt Auckland best Museum and highly regarded around the world.
M.O.T.A.T.
Spend a day at the Museum of Transport and Technology. Located close to the CBD at Western Springs if you love old machines this is the place for you.
Torpedo Bay Navy Museum
THis is one of the best free places to visit in Auckland. The museum itself is small but full of interesting stuff (If you’re into naval history). Even if you’re not a history buff this is on the waterfront in Devonport with a beatiful cafe and park. It’s a nice place to visit for all.
The Maritime Museum
If old boats are your thing then this Viaduct Harbour attraction is the place for you. For the best experience book in to go sailing on one of the heritage yachts. It cost’s a little extra but it’s the best part.
Howick Historical Village
Experience colonial Auckland as it was in the mid 1800’s at Howick Historical Village. It’ll make even a 3 star hotel seem like luxury.
Auckland Art Gallery
This magnificent building is one of my favorite places to visit in Auckland CBD. It’s ever changing always interesting exhibits are a great mix of modern and historic art.
Huia Settlers Museum
This tiny museum in Huia is a great stop on the way to Whatapu or on the way to or from the beach at Huia. It’s one of the many interesting places to visit around West Auckland.