A bustling city with a vibrant surrounding area, the Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau region is filled with a plethora of activities to add to your ultimate travel guide. Located in New Zealand/Aotearoa’s North Island/Te Ika-a-Māui, Auckland offers both ways to relax and to find adventure, whether it’s chilling out in the outer suburbs of South Auckland or wandering through the city of the North Shore. Pick up your Hertz rental car from the branch in North Harbour and follow this guide to make the most of your adventures in Auckland.
Relax with Nature in the North Shore
Once you’ve picked up your rental car from the North Harbour branch, it’s time to start exploring all that Auckland’s North Shore has to offer. The abundance of parks and scenic reserves in the North Shore make it a perfect spot to be explored by bushwalking along the shore. Wandering around the southern rim of North Shore, like in Kauri Point Centennial Park or Hinemoa Park, you’ll be able to discover spectacular views of Auckland city from across the water. While the bright lights and electric excitement of the CBD can be observed from across the water, the North Shore also provides you a laid-back area to relax amongst the lush shoreline and quiet beaches. 
Seaside Escape in Devonport
Only twenty-minutes’ drive from Auckland CBD, the small town of Devonport makes for a great coastal escape. This sleepy seaside haven in the North Shore is the perfect pairing of small town charm with close proximity to the city. Take a stroll down lower Victoria Road and browse the boutique shops and local sellers that have made the village a leading commercial centre of the North Shore. Discover incredible art at the iconic Depot gallery, showcasing a variety of artists both emerging and established. Devonport’s coastal location has been integral to its history, all of which can be explored at the Torpedo Bay Navy Museum. Nestled into the base of North Head, this museum not only offers significant educational information of the role of the New Zealand Navy, but also soaring views of the city skyline from across the water. To top it all off, finish your visit in Devonport with fresh seafood by the shoreline at Devon on the Wharf as you look out over the bay and take in the stunning view with a delicious meal. 
Embrace City Life in Auckland CBD
In the heart of the wider Auckland region sits the Auckland CBD, the bustling centre of all things arts, culture and adventure. To take in the vast expanse of the city and the surrounding areas, head up the Auckland Sky Tower for views of the region like you’ve never seen before. With panoramic views from its observation deck that deliver a sweeping snapshot of Auckland, the Sky Tower is a great way to gain some perspective of this beautiful city. The next stop on your Auckland CBD guide should be the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. As the largest art institution in New Zealand, the Auckland Art Gallery boasts both a wide range of rotating special exhibitions, as well as permanent displays. With a calendar full of activities and events, there are also a range of options for children and family, so everyone can enjoy a day in the gallery. For when you get hungry, check out any of the amazing dining experiences available in Auckland. Bianca is a great pick if a bowl of hearty pasta and housemade focaccia is up your alley. 
Unwind in Pukekohe
As you make your way down South Auckland, Pukekohe is a great spot to consider stopping at before the end of your trip. Embrace the small town lifestyle and unwind in Pukekohe with a wander through the historic town. Pukekohe Hill Reserve offers an ideal place to stretch your legs and see the town from new heights with panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside found at the summit of the hill. Also known as the traditional Māori name of Pukekohekohe, the Pukekohe Hill has been a culturally significant landmark over the centuries due to its high quality soil and sweeping views of the surrounding area. If you happen to be visiting Pukekohe on a Saturday, be sure to check out the local farmer’s market at Franklin Markets, offering fresh produce, local arts and crafts, and everything in between. With a Hertz rental car branch located in Pukekohe, we’ve made it easy for you to drop your car off at the end of your trip so you can save more time for exploration.
From the North Shore to South Auckland, the sprawling region of Auckland in New Zealand’s North Island has so many activities and adventures that are waiting for you to explore.
