Auckland Domain Tours and Activities

Auckland Domain which includes a city, a garden and skyline
Auckland Domain
Auckland Domain
Auckland Domain which includes a fountain, a garden and a pond
Auckland Domain which includes forests


A park built on the site of what was once an active volcano, today is a beautiful spot with towering trees, sculptural works and even a museum.

A public garden that dates all the way back to 1860, Auckland Domain (known by locals simply as The Domain) was once a Maori 'pa' – a defended settlement where tribesmen would grow crops and store their food. The 75 hectares of volcanic landscape remains captivating, home to naturally formed amphitheatres where visitors come to play sports as well as admire the exotic trees and native bushland, fed by the rich and fertile volcanic soil.

Stroll across the exquisitely tended lawns and along the tree-lined pathways and you’ll spot all kinds of artworks on display. The Domain has its own Sculpture Walk with eight different sculptures on show. Head for the park’s Wintergarden and you’ll find even more, with marble statues dating back to the 1920s along with a more recent addition in the form of a sculpture by the Chinese-New Zealand artist Guy Ngan.

Explore the changing plant displays that can be found in the park’s stunning historic glasshouse, which has been standing for nearly a century. In the café nearby, stop off for a coffee or a bite to eat while you admire the view over a duck pond formed by the same natural springs that used to supply water to Auckland back in the 19th century.

One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Auckland War Memorial Museum, built back in 1929 in a stunning Greco-Roman design. On display inside, you’ll find military exhibits along with displays on the Maori heritage and culture.

Every autumn, the Domain plays host to an arts festival. Pay a visit at the right time and you’ll get to enjoy performances by local and global acts. Whether it’s theatre, dance, music or visual art, you’ll find something to enjoy.

Easy to reach from most parts of Auckland, you can get to the Domain by boarding the LINK Bus or Explorer Bus. If you’re driving, on-site and street parking is available which is free of charge to visitors for up to two hours.

Plan a trip to see Auckland Domain

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Top Auckland Domain Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group

Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group

5 out of 5
83 Symonds Street, Box 2771, Auckland
Cordis, Auckland by Langham Hospitality Group
The Grand by SkyCity

The Grand by SkyCity

5 out of 5
90 Federal Street, Auckland
The Grand by SkyCity
Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre by IHG

4 out of 5
Corner Wyndham & Albert Streets, Auckland
Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre by IHG
SkyCity Hotel

SkyCity Hotel

4.5 out of 5
Corner Victoria and Federal Streets, Auckland
SkyCity Hotel
Abstract Hotel

Abstract Hotel

4.5 out of 5
8 Upper Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland, Auckland
Abstract Hotel
Hotel Grand Chancellor Auckland

Hotel Grand Chancellor Auckland

3 out of 5
80 Wellesley Street West, Auckland, Auckland
Hotel Grand Chancellor Auckland
Oaks Auckland Hotel

Oaks Auckland Hotel

4.5 out of 5
40 Beach Road, Auckland
Oaks Auckland Hotel
Copthorne Hotel Auckland City

Copthorne Hotel Auckland City

4 out of 5
150 Anzac Avenue, Auckland
Copthorne Hotel Auckland City
Horizon by SkyCity

Horizon by SkyCity

5 out of 5
85-93 Hobson Street,, Auckland, Auckland, Auckland
Horizon by SkyCity
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Auckland Domain

Auckland Domain offers a variety of activities for visitors, including leisurely walks through its beautiful gardens and the chance to feed ducks. For a unique experience, explore the Odyssey Sensory Maze theme park, and for those seeking adventure, nearby ski resorts provide exciting options. Don't forget to check out local shopping spots to complete your visit!

Shopping

Check out the Queen Street Shopping District, just 1.6km from Auckland Domain, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. Westfield Newmarket, only 1.3km away, boasts family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, don't miss Victoria Park public market, located 3.2km away, for a local vibe.

Recreation

At Eden Park, immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere while enjoying a match or tour. Chamberlain Park Public Golf Course offers a relaxing outdoor experience with stunning views, perfect for a leisurely round of golf. Mt. Smart Stadium provides an energetic environment for sports enthusiasts to cheer on their favourite teams.

Adventure

Explore the Point To Point Walkway, a stunning hiking trail 8.0km from Auckland Domain, offering breathtaking scenery and adventure vibes. For water sports, Gulfwind Sailing Academy, located 3.2km away, provides thrilling sailing experiences, while Clip 'n Climb, also 3.2km away, offers exciting climbing challenges.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Auckland Domain! Catch a show at The Civic Theater, located 1.4km away, or enjoy a performance at Aotea Centre, just 1.6km from the Domain. For a more immersive experience, visit the ASB Waterfront Theatre, 3.2km away, and enjoy captivating entertainment.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Auckland Domain

Auckland Domain offers a delightful mix of attractions, from vibrant urban parks to exciting entertainment venues. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural experiences at the Auckland Museum, which is a must-see. Additionally, you’ll find family-friendly activities and beautiful beach spots nearby. For convenience, consider booking hotels close to the museum to make the most of your stay in this scenic area.

  • Sky Tower: Standing tall at 1.6km from Auckland Domain, Sky Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. It's a modern marvel, perfect for those seeking a taste of urban life while enjoying a meal at its revolving restaurant.
  • Spark Arena: Located 1.4km away, Spark Arena is a buzzing hub for entertainment. With concerts and family-friendly shows, it brings a lively atmosphere that guarantees a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
  • University of Auckland: Just 1.1km from the Domain, this historic university is steeped in culture and heritage. Wander through its beautiful campus and immerse yourself in the vibrant student life and artistic events.

Best time to go to Auckland Domain

The best time to visit Auckland Domain is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January66.7°F (19.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February67.6°F (19.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March65.5°F (18.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April62.6°F (17.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
July53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
September55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November60.3°F (15.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December64.2°F (17.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Auckland Domain

To save money on your visit to Auckland Domain, consider travelling between May and July when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and aim for a Monday stay for the best rates. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and explore eco-certified hotels. Look out for last-minute deals and consider combining your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Public transport is also a cost-effective way to get around, so plan your trips wisely to maximise your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Auckland Domain are May to July, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Auckland Domain about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Auckland Domain is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Auckland Domain is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, chosen destination, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your results from the lowest to highest prices, allowing you to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your Auckland Domain hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.