Auckland's Waterfront: Viaduct, Wynyard and Mission Bay
Auckland's waterfront runs from the Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter in the central city out along the eastern bays to Mission Bay. For the City of Sails, the harbour edge is where a lot of the best of the city sits.
What is there to do on Auckland's waterfront?
The harbour edge packs in dining, walking, boats and beaches. In the centre, the Viaduct and Wynyard Quarter are the marina-and-restaurant heart, busy with yachts and people. Out east, the bays lead to Mission Bay's sand and promenade. The ferries to Devonport, Rangitoto and Waiheke all leave from the downtown terminal. It is the most alive part of the city in good weather.
The Viaduct and Wynyard Quarter
This is the central waterfront, built up for the America's Cup and still the hub of harbour life. The Viaduct Harbour is ringed with bars and restaurants and full of moored boats, and the neighbouring Wynyard Quarter adds open space, more dining and a relaxed feel. It is an easy, scenic walk and a natural spot for an evening out by the water.
Mission Bay and the eastern bays
A short trip east along the coast brings the city's favourite beach strip. Mission Bay has a calm swimming beach, a fountain, an ice-cream and cafe walk, and a long promenade, with the eastern bays continuing on. It is a classic Auckland outing, especially on a fine weekend, and easy to reach by car or bus from the centre.
Getting out on the water
In the City of Sails, the harbour itself is the attraction. Ferries from the downtown terminal cross to Devonport, Rangitoto and Waiheke, all rewarding day trips with great views back to the city. Harbour cruises and sailing trips run from the Viaduct for anyone who wants to actually get out on a boat. On a clear day, time on the water is the most Auckland thing you can do.
Make the most of the harbour edge
Guide AKL maps the waterfront, the bays and the ferry trips with the spots worth your time. Works offline.
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