30 Cheap Things to Do in Auckland, New Zealand: A Guide for Budget Travelers

Auckland, New Zealand, is a vibrant and beautiful city that offers visitors a wide range of attractions and activities. However, one of the main concerns for many budget-conscious travelers is the cost of living there. Fortunately, this guide will offer you tips on how to enjoy Auckland without breaking the bank. From affordable dining options to exciting cultural experiences, there's plenty to do, and it won't break the budget.

Public Transport and Free Attractions

Auckland has a reasonably reliable public transport system, including buses, trains, and ferries. You can also use the AT Hop card to cut fares by half. Here are some free attractions:

Visit the city center or Parnell area and explore the local arts and culture. Enjoy a walk at the Domain or the waterfront of the CBD. Check out Auckland Public Library for free Wi-Fi and books.

If you're interested in movies, both Event Cinemas on Queen Street and Academy Cinemas under the city library offer films, including NZ's only IMAX screen.

Free and Cheap Activities

Here are 17 fun and affordable activities to enjoy while in Auckland:

COAST TO COAST WALK

See the best of central Auckland by foot with the coast to coast walk, which offers panoramic views of the city from parks and volcanic cones.

GET EDUCATED AT THE AUCKLAND MUSEUM

Experience the Auckland Museum, where entry costs NZ$25 for non-residents, but locals can enter for free. Explore interactive exhibitions that make learning about New Zealand culture an engaging experience.

TRY SOME TRADITIONAL MAORI SWEET TREATS

Enjoy an authentic Paraoa Parai, a traditional Maori fried bread, at Giapo for NZ$14, paired with a scoop of ice cream. This is a delightful and budget-friendly culinary experience.

GO ON A “CHEAP AS” BAR CRAWL

Join the Frenzi Bar Crawl, which includes 4 free drinks and a free hotdog at 4 bars, all for NZ$10. There are also party games with the chance to win prizes!

TAKE A FREE BACKPACKER TOUR

Get a free orientation of Auckland Central from a local guide. Learn about the best places to eat, party, and sightsee, all on a backpacker budget. This 2-hour tour is a great way to get oriented and save money.

WATCH A FREE MOVIE IN THE PARK

During the summer, attend the Silo Cinema events in Silo Park, projected onto a silo. These are held every Friday or Saturday and are a great way to enjoy the Auckland community atmosphere and local food stalls.

WALK TO SILO PARK ANYWAY!

This area of Auckland offers plenty to explore, including silos, water features, sculptures, a basketball court, and many places to sit and relax.

TASTE TEA FOR FREE!

T2 on Queen Street offers free hot tea and ice tea tastings, along with a variety of tea aromas to enjoy.

BROWSE THE AUCKLAND ART GALLERY

Check out the Auckland Art Gallery, where general admission is free for New Zealand residents, with certain exhibitions requiring a fee of NZ$20 for international visitors. Albert Park, adjacent to the gallery, provides a nice spot for a stroll.

GO TO DEVONPORT FROM AUCKLAND CITY

Take a quick ferry ride for NZ$11.50 to Devonport, where you can capture awesome city skyline photos, explore tunnels at North Head, and enjoy free entry into the Navy Museum, as well as swimming at Cheltenham Beach.

VISIT THE MARITIME MUSEUM

Discover New Zealand's relationship with the sea at the Maritime Museum. Entry fees are reasonable, and you can add a cruise for a more expensive but still affordable option.

GO OUTLET SHOPPING

Auckland is a great place for outlet shopping, where you can find great deals on clothes and other gear needed for your journey around New Zealand.

LOUNGE ON THE BEACH AT MISSION BAY

A popular spot during the summer, Mission Bay is a great place to enjoy the sun, snacks, and water activities.

CATCH A 5 MOVIE

Enjoy "Cheap Tuesday" at most cinemas, where tickets are between NZ$10-12. At Academy Cinemas, you can watch a NZ$5 flick all day Wednesday.

SAY HELLO TO THE RESIDENTS AT WESTERN SPRINGS PARK

Observe the wildlife, including ducks, swans, geese, eels, and pukeko, at Western Springs Park for free.

GRAB SOME CHEAP EATS

Look for affordable dining options in Auckland, such as food courts, cafes, and cheap eateries offering local cuisine experiences.

With these activities, you can explore all that Auckland has to offer without spending a fortune. Whether you're interested in culture, nature, or simply having a good time, there's something for everyone on this budget-friendly list.