Free things to do are scattered round the city for you to find. Learn how to master painting with watercolours at the Maritime Museum or witness the bright rainbow lights of Queen Street reflect off the road, there is a memorable activity for every age and occasion.
Stroll along the waterfront
Soak in the atmosphere along Auckland’s waterfront and marvel at some of New Zealand’s finest yachts and wooden vessels. Make it a stroll worthwhile by taking your smartphone along and scanning the QR codes scattered along the wharf, to learn more about the beautiful buildings you are passing.
Admire art at Auckland Art Gallery
With sights to entertain everyone, from children, to adults to groups, the Auckland Art Gallery is a place for creativity, collaboration and community. Hosting activities that provide significant art experiences for their diverse audience, the tasteful and upbeat destination hosts a variety of art that appeal to all ages and cultures. It’s free to visit for NZ residents (just make sure to have proof of residency with you).
Attend the Next Level Art Exhibition | October 12, Silo Park
Part of Artweek, this exhibition will be showcasing designs created by digital artists from all around the world and will feature the winners of the Next Level instagram competition as well as six other elite artists whose work are a must-see. This year, the event is featuring artists Kelogsloops, Loretta Lizzio, Mark Conlan, Mateusz Witczak, Nosego and Paul Braddock. Bring the great vibes of the night back home with you, as all art will be available for purchase.
Visit the Maritime Museum
Free for Aucklanders, the Maritime Museum is packed with events, exhibitions and galleries that tell the story of how early European settlers braved the ocean to build new lives. Indulge in kiwi history and learn about the nation’s love for the coast. For something a bit more interactive, try the watercolor classes for adults or take the kids to a painting class to celebrate Artweek.
Take the kids - both young and young at heart to play at Silo Park
Sit and gaze upon the harbour’s sparkling ocean while the kids play in the many different activity areas in Silo Park. Built on a mound of sand, the play area boasts climbing features, swings, sculpture, hopscotch, foursquare as well as a basketball court. If that’s not exciting enough, there’s also a water area so the kids can get hands on with the fun.
Eat lunch in Takutai Square
Surround yourself with greenery and water features in the heart of Britomart. Home to downtown Auckland’s green space, soak up the sun and recharge for the afternoon. Lie out on the lawn and stretch your legs while you enjoy a packed lunch from home (or if you haven't been quite so organised there are cult favourite eateries nearby and smoothie stalls around the corner). Listen to the trickle of the Pipi Beds sculpture and water installation to ease off the tension.
Relax and read at the Container Library
Take it easy and explore the simple container which has been upgraded into Auckland waterfront’s very own open library. Set in a picturesque corner of the Viaduct, looking towards the Te Wero Bridge, the small and sweet library has plenty of beans bags and couches that are there for your comfort. Play librarian and borrower with the ‘take one, leave one’ swap system, so that you’ll never get bored with the same books.