Auckland South Travel Guide
Auckland South accommodation, Auckland South activities and attractions, Auckland South maps, transportation to and around Auckland South - the Jasons Auckland South Destination Travel Guide is your complete visitor guide for Auckland South.
Visit the Polynesian market
Close to the urban center,
Auckland South is a fast-growing area with a dynamic multi-cultural population. Samoan, Tongan, Fijian and Cook Islander cultures intermingle here, and together, residents of the area speak about 20 Polynesian languages and dialects, making
Auckland the largest Polynesian city in the world. Immerse yourself in the buzz at Otara Market on Saturday morning, and grant yourself a dose of colourful Polynesian crafts, food and entertainment.
Go out for a play day
At Mangere Mountain, climb one of Auckland's best-preserved volcanic cones, then roll down for head-to-head racing at Formula E Indoor Raceway. Have a day out at Rainbow's End amusement park in Manukau City or visit the beautiful
Auckland Botanic Gardens in Manurewa.
Sightsee in the countryside
As
Auckland South eases out of the central city toward the rugged Hunua Ranges, it becomes more rural, marked by villages and country towns. The
Hunua Ranges Regional Park offers tramping and shorter bush walks, mountain biking to suit all skill levels, horse riding, fishing and camping. The Hunua Falls are a popular destination for sightseers and photographers.
The rural and coastal areas of
Auckland South are dotted with craft shops, sandy beaches and rustic rural communities. Go soaring with the
Auckland Gliding Club in
Drury. Ride the steam train at the Glenbrook Vintage Railway just outside
Waiuku, or have a pint at the Kentish Hotel, New Zealand’s longest continuously licensed, with ornate verandahs overlooking the Waiku Estuary. Enjoy the country atmosphere at
Pukekohe,
Papakura and
Kaiaua, or head to peaceful Kawakawa Bay for a family picnic or summer swim.
Day trips from Auckland South
Near the Firth of Thames, the township of
Miranda has great birdwatching and hot springs. For dramatic views over the wild Tasman Sea, head into the hinterlands past Waiuku to the Manukau Heads, and climb the lighthouse at the entrance of the magnificent Manukau Harbour.
