Must-do experiences while house sitting in Auckland

Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse culture, and vibrant atmosphere. While house sitting in Auckland, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this beautiful city while also taking care of someone’s home and pets.

But it’s important you don’t forget that as a house sitter, you are responsible for taking care of the house and the pets, so make sure to set aside enough time to fulfill your house sitting duties as well. This is why planning your time well is key to making the most out of your time house sitting in Auckland. This way you can balance your responsibilities and enjoy the amazing experiences that Auckland has to offer, as well as create memories that will last a lifetime. With that in mind, here are some must-do experiences while house sitting in Auckland.

Explore the many volcanoes around Auckland

Take a hike to the top of one of Auckland’s many volcanoes. The city is built on a volcanic field, and there are several extinct volcanoes you can hike to for breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding area. The most popular volcano to hike is Mount Eden, which offers panoramic views of the city from its summit. Nearby Mount Victoria also offers excellent views and is a bit less crowded than Mount Eden.

Visit the Auckland Harbour Bridge

The iconic Auckland Habour Bridge offers a unique experience for visitors, with the option to take a guided climb to the top for spectacular views of the harbour and city. It’s a great way to get a different perspective of the city and is an experience you won’t forget. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture some breathing photos along the way too!

Auckland Art Gallery

Another must-do experience is visiting the Auckland Art Gallery. Auckland Art gallery is home to a wide range of art from across New Zealand and around the world, which makes it a great place to learn about the history and culture of the city. Here you’ll also find a lovely rooftop garden with views of Auckland city, providing a great spot to relax and take in the views of the surrounding area.

Explore the many markets in Auckland

For a taste of the local culture, head to one of Auckland’s many markets. The city is home to a variety of markets, including the popular La Cigale French Market, which features a wide range of delicious French foods and products. The Otara Market is another popular option, where you can find a wide range of Pacific Island and Maori crafts, food, and clothing.

Waitakere Ranges Regional Park

The Waitakere Ranges Regional Park is a place where pristine bush, thriving native wildlife and rugged black sand surf beaches come together. The park is located just a short drive from the city and is home to some of New Zealand’s most beautiful rainforests and waterfalls. It’s a great place to go for a hike, take a dip in a natural pool, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Take a boat trip to the nearby Islands

No trip to Auckland is complete without taking a trip to the nearby islands. The Hauraki Gulf is home to several islands, such as Waiheke Island, known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, and olive groves.

Another well-visited island is Rangitoto Island – a volcanic island home to the youngest volcano in the Auckland volcanic field. Here there are many hiking trails and scenic views, perfect for a photo op. Guided tours are also available.

Visit the iconic Sky Tower

As the 28th tallest tower in the world, The Sky Tower is an iconic Auckland landmark and offers some of the best views of the city. You can take an elevator to the top for a 360-degree view of the city, or for the more adventurous, you can try the SkyWalk or SkyJump, both offering a unique thrill and experience. Entry is not free however and costs about $25 for one adult.

Take a day trip to the West Coast Beaches

Just a short drive from the city, the West Coast Beaches offer some of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes in New Zealand. Why not take a drive along the scenic coastal road and stop at some of the famous beaches like Piha, Bethells and Muriwai, where you can enjoy swimming, surfing, and even black-sand beach. Some of the beaches here are dog friendly too, so you can bring along your furry friend too!