Auckland Hop-On Hop-Off Explorer Bus Ticket

Viaduct Harbour and the Sky Tower

The route passes through the heart of Auckland, where the waterfront of Viaduct Harbour has cafes, restaurants and superyachts, and the harbour has hosted America's Cup sailing races. Close by, the Sky Tower rises 328 metres above the city and is the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere. Its observation decks give a wide view of the city and the sea.

These stops make a natural start to a day with a hop-on hop-off bus in Auckland, because they sit in the centre where most visitors stay. Hop off to walk the waterfront, watch the boats or visit the tower, and rejoin the next bus. Entrance fees to the Sky Tower and other attractions are not included in the ticket.

Auckland Domain and the museum

Auckland Domain is the city's oldest park, set on the crater of an extinct volcano, with wide lawns, old trees and a Wintergarden. The Auckland War Memorial Museum stands at its top, in a Greek revival building from the 1920s with fine views over the harbour. The museum houses Māori and Pacific collections and natural history displays.

Allow at least an hour and a half if you hop off here. The building itself is worth seeing even if you skip the galleries, and the surrounding park is pleasant for a picnic. The museum charges entry for some galleries, which is not part of the bus ticket, and opening hours change through the year.

Parnell and the eastern waterfront

Parnell is one of Auckland's oldest suburbs, with heritage buildings, boutique shops, cafes and a rose garden. It is a good place to hop off for a coffee and a stroll along the main street. From there the route follows the waterfront along Tamaki Drive, with views across the harbour to Rangitoto Island.

Mission Bay, along the drive, is a popular beach with a promenade, cafes and ice cream stands, and it is best on a sunny day. Stops and routes can change, so check the route map in your app or voucher. If you plan to visit only a few places, choose them first and the rest of the day will run more smoothly.

Using your ticket and planning the day

Your ticket is valid for one day from first activation, and you board at any stop on the route. The bus gives live English commentary, and multilingual audio is available through an app, so bring headphones if you want it. Complimentary Wi-Fi is on board for maps and photos.

Best time to ride is in the morning when the buses are less crowded, and a warm day lets you sit on the open upper deck. Wear a hat and sun protection, and bring a light rain jacket, because Auckland's weather changes quickly. Food, drinks and entrance fees are not included, and hotel pickup is not included either.