Why Auckland is Best Seen From Above — A Guide to City Views

 

Introduction
Auckland is a city built on volcanoes, hills, and harbours. That means views are everywhere — from mountaintops to bridges, from iconic towers to rooftop bars. The city is as much about its skyline as it is about its culture, and there are dozens of vantage points waiting to be explored.

Natural Vantage Points

  • Mt Eden (Maungawhau): A dormant volcanic cone with 360-degree views of the city and both harbours.

  • One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie): A place of cultural significance with sweeping views.

  • North Head: Overlooking Devonport and the Hauraki Gulf, with old military tunnels to explore.

Urban Vantage Points

  • Sky Tower: The tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere offers unparalleled views.

  • Rooftop Bars: The Glass Goose and Dr Rudi’s pair cocktails with cityscapes.

  • Auckland Museum Steps: A surprisingly good skyline backdrop.

A Different Angle — The Routemaster Experience
While natural and urban lookouts are fantastic, they require travel or entry fees. A Vintage Views double-decker bus offers an elevated, mobile perspective. From the open top windows, you see the city as it unfolds — the Sky Tower, Ponsonby, the Harbour Bridge — without needing to stop at multiple locations.

Tips for Capturing the Best Views

  • Golden Hour: Early morning and late afternoon light make for the best photos.

  • Harbour Bridge Crossing: Sit on the upper deck for sweeping views back over the CBD.

  • Skyline Shots: Ponsonby and Mission Bay provide postcard-worthy angles.

Conclusion
Auckland’s beauty is best appreciated from above. By combining natural summits, urban towers, and a double-decker city loop, you’ll experience the city from every angle. Book a Double-Decker Discovery Tour and see Auckland the way it was meant to be seen — with views from the top.


See more at: 

www.vintageviews.co.nz/tours

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

How to Plan a Kid-Friendly Auckland Day (Hint: Start With the Vintage Bus)

  Travelling with kids is a balancing act: you want fun, they need excitement, and everyone wants it to be stress-free. Auckland is one of the best cities in New Zealand for family adventures, with parks, museums, and beaches all within easy reach. Here’s a perfect family day itinerary — built around the ultimate kid-pleaser: a ride on a vintage double-decker bus . Morning: MOTAT + Western Springs Start with a visit to the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) . Kids can climb on vintage planes, learn about science in interactive exhibits, and see historic vehicles. Next door is Western Springs Park , ideal for picnics and scooter rides. Midday: Double-Decker Discovery Tour After lunch, it’s time for the highlight: the Vintage Views Routemaster tour . Kids love running up the stairs to the top deck, waving to pedestrians below, and seeing the city from above. Parents love that the 90-minute loop hits all the highlights without long walks or endless planning. Mission B...
Read more

Rainy Day Guide: What to Do in Auckland with Kids Indoors (2025)

  Introduction Rain doesn’t have to spoil your trip. Auckland is full of indoor attractions designed for kids and families. Here’s the 2025 rainy-day guide for Auckland with kids . MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology) Hands-on exhibits. Perfect for curious young minds. SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Penguins, sharks, and underwater tunnels. Engaging and educational. Auckland Museum Discovery Centre Interactive exhibits for children. Covers science, culture, and history. Indoor Playgrounds & Trampoline Parks Options across the city (GravityNZ, Uptown Bounce). VR & Gaming Centres Teen-friendly fun with interactive tech. Bonus: Routemaster Tour Even in the rain, the enclosed lower deck keeps families dry while enjoying the city. ❓ FAQs Q: Are museums free for kids? Often discounted or free for residents. Q: Does the Routemaster run in the rain? Yes — rain or shine. 🏁 Conclusion Rainy days in Auckland can still be fun-filled...
Read more

5 Reasons the Double-Decker Discovery Tour is Perfect for Families

  Introduction Family days out should be fun, stress-free, and memorable. In Auckland, there are plenty of choices — from zoos to museums , ferries to parks . But one activity is rapidly becoming a family favourite: riding Auckland’s only vintage 1960s London Routemaster bus with Vintage Views . The Double-Decker Discovery Tour offers the perfect mix of excitement for kids, convenience for parents, and affordability for the whole whānau . Here are five reasons why this experience stands out. 1. It’s a Real Adventure for Kids 🚍 Children love novelty — and the Routemaster delivers it in spades. The chance to: Climb the narrow staircase to the top deck. Grab the coveted front seat with its “driver’s eye” view. Wave at passersby from above. For many kids, the bus ride itself is as memorable as the sights outside. 2. Stress-Free for Parents πŸ‘¨‍πŸ‘©‍πŸ‘§ No parking, no navigating, no trying to keep kids entertained while you drive. Parents can sit back, relax, and e...
Read more