Auckland is an adrenaline-filled city known for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Auckland that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Auckland?
You should plan to spend around $159 (NZ$267) per day on your vacation in Auckland. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $46 (NZ$77) on meals
- $16 (NZ$27) on local transportation
- $176 (NZ$295) on hotels
A one week trip to Auckland for two people costs, on average, $2,230 (NZ$3,738). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,115
NZ$1,869
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,230
NZ$3,738
-
One Month
Per person
$4,778
NZ$8,010
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,230
NZ$3,738
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$4,460
NZ$7,476
-
One Month
For a couple
$9,557
NZ$16,020
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Auckland cost?
A one week trip to Auckland usually costs around $1,115 (NZ$1,869) for one person and $2,230 (NZ$3,738) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Auckland on average costs around $2,230 (NZ$3,738) for one person and $4,460 (NZ$7,476) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Auckland will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Auckland on average costs around $4,778 (NZ$8,010) for one person and $9,557 (NZ$16,020) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Auckland expensive to visit?
Auckland is a large and energetic city packed with things to do. You'll encounter travelers from every walk of life, all here to soak up the local charm, regardless of their spending habits. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
Auckland can certainly rack up expenses, but there are strategies to minimize costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $59 (NZ$97) per day, mid-range travelers spend $162 (NZ$267) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $484 (NZ$796) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Auckland.
Within the Pacific, which is known to be an expensive region, Auckland is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Canberra or Airlie Beach.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Auckland Expensive?
Auckland, New Zealand
How much money do I need for a trip to Auckland?
The average Auckland trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Auckland travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Auckland cost?
Auckland on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$29
(NZ$48)
|
$88
(NZ$147)
|
$307
(NZ$515)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$7
(NZ$11)
|
$16
(NZ$27)
|
$33
(NZ$56)
|
|
Food 2
|
$19
(NZ$32)
|
$46
(NZ$77)
|
$107
(NZ$179)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$12
(NZ$20)
|
$28
(NZ$46)
|
$56
(NZ$94)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$3-8
(NZ$5-14)
|
$7-20
(NZ$11-34)
|
$16-49
(NZ$27-81)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people assume they can visit Auckland on a minimal budget, but most find that style of travel to be uncomfortable. Think about what makes a vacation enjoyable for you. Do you like staying in budget hostels, regular hotels, or high-end resorts? Do you want to experience the local attractions? Do you enjoy dining out? Your budget and itinerary will be determined by your answers to these questions.
Who are Budget Travelers?
While you might think you're a budget traveler, without giving up many of your usual comforts, you'll likely need to spend more than the $59 per day that backpackers often spend.
Backpackers often work within this tight budget by staying in hostel dorms, eating fast food or street food, using public transit, and mainly visiting free attractions.
Fortunately, you'll find plenty of hostels in Auckland, such as The Attic Backpackers, Haka House Auckland K’ Road, and Frienz Backpackers Accommodation Auckland. These hostels provide inexpensive dormitory lodging and a friendly atmosphere, but amenities are quite limited. The culinary scene is also a highlight for everyone in Auckland, but budget travelers tend to eat street food or make their own meals in hostels, potentially missing out on the rich flavors of the local cuisine.
Could You Be an Average Traveler?
If you're a couple or a family on a fun getaway, you might want to choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at well-liked restaurants, and visit the key museums and attractions that come with entry fees. It's common for visitors to Auckland to seek out the major attractions, museums, and significant landmarks. Most activities are not free, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to plan on a daily budget of about $162 per person, per day.
Auckland offers a diverse selection of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with companions, you can share a hotel room with a partner, friend, or your kids, making it easier on your wallet. Families should look for hotels and restaurants that are family-friendly. Eden Park Bed And Breakfast Inn is an excellent option for kids, and The Oyster Inn is another fantastic choice. For more family and couple-friendly accommodations, check out our hotel guide for Auckland here.
Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?
If you're looking for a high-end escape with every amenity and high-quality service, be prepared for daily expenses around $484. Staying in upscale hotels, enjoying meals at award-winning restaurants, indulging in lavish excursions, and utilizing taxis or private drivers in the city will entail a more premium price tag. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private One way Transfer from Airport to / from CBD in Minivan - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Auckland
In Auckland, hotel prices can be quite surprising. Higher-end hotels offer more amenities and luxury, but come at a higher price tag, especially during the peak summer season. Off-season prices average around $92, but in peak season, they can average around $172. Prices generally range from $56 to $280, and hostels remain the cheaper option. Booking early or traveling during the low season can save you money, and you might find special deals along the way.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Auckland for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $176 (NZ$295). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $88 (NZ$147) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Auckland? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Auckland include:
- Eden Park Bed And Breakfast Inn starting at $111
- The Oyster Inn starting at $166
- Airedale Boutique Suites starting at $111
- Aristotles North Shore starting at $102
- The Great Ponsonby Arthotel starting at $92
As a large city, Auckland offers a plethora of places to stay. You can choose from affordable hostels like The Attic Backpackers, vacation rentals, or high-end hotels. Staying closer to the city center might cost you more, but you'll have easy access to public transport and tourist spots.
The effecient public transportation in Auckland allows for cheaper accommodations outside the city, but commuting might take a bite out of your travel budget and time.
Auckland is family-friendly, so finding a larger apartment or more spacious accommodation is ideal when traveling with children. In a city this big, it's common to find rooms that are a bit small and cramped.
If you travel during the low or shoulder season (and skip summer), you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in Auckland
Auckland's public transit system connects to several major sights. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around. To save money and travel efficiently, public transport is a good option if it's near your location, but taxis and rideshares are always around for convenience.
It's unfortunate that the walkability in most of the city is lacking. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (moderate)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $16 (NZ$27) per person, per day, on local transportation in Auckland. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Auckland is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$16
NZ$27
Be sure your hotel has hassle-free parking if you're planning to drive.
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Auckland Airport & Ground Transfers - Private Luxury Car/ Van. For $117 details
- Auckland City to Auckland Airport transfers for $120 details
- Auckland Airport Transfers and Daily Tours for $156 details
How much does it cost to go to Auckland? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Auckland will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Some typical prices for transportation in Auckland are shown below. These are actual costs from previous travelers, and are representative of the amount you'll likely spend on transportation in Auckland. Don't forget that your individual costs will vary based on how you get around, because hired cars such as taxis are often much more expensive than local public transportation.
-
Bus from Airport
NZ$16
-
Airport Shuttle
NZ$25
Food Budget in Auckland
Make sure to enjoy the fantastic food in Auckland by taking the time to savor all the local flavors. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Auckland can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Auckland is $46 (NZ$77) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$46
NZ$77
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Auckland is around $47 (NZ$77) per person, with previous travelers spending from $19 to $109. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Auckland are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $14
- Lunch: $7 to $19
- Dinner: $14 to $33
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $7
Auckland has an extensive selection of dining options that ranges from budget friendly to high end fine dining. For the cheapest options, head to a food court where you can find affordable Asian food or fast food. There are also many cafes, bars, and takeaway options that are budget friendly.
Central Auckland is a great place to hang out as there are many bars, restaurants, breweries, and nightlife. Check out this guide to some of Auckland's best bars and pubs to get some locally made craft beer.
Asian food is very common throughout Auckland and most restaurants are quite good. You will find everything including Japanese, Korean, Vietnam, and Chinese. Other ethnic foods available include Middle Eastern, Italian and Mediterranean. Vegetarian options are also quite common.
If you choose to eat at nicer restaurants for lunch instead of dinner, you can save some money. Many dining spots in tourist areas or business centers have lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' These are usually just scaled-down and cheaper versions of their dinner offerings. You might even find a full multi-course gourmet meal at a great price if you know where to look. For dinner, just opt for something light.
When you're dining out with kids, seek out restaurants that offer a kids' menu. This can help you save quite a bit since these meals are usually more affordable. Keep in mind that some restaurants might not showcase their kids' options, so be sure to ask your server before placing your order.
Many accommodations feature breakfast in their rates, while some may charge additional fees for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly from one hotel to another. Knowing this information ahead of time helps you decide if you need to spend extra money. A tasty hotel buffet could be worth the expense, or a nearby bakery or cafe might offer a more affordable choice.
Keep a water bottle handy instead of purchasing drinks everywhere. It's also better for the environment.
When planning a tour, don't forget to look into which meals are covered. You may be responsible for some of your own food, which could impact your budget significantly.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Auckland, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Auckland Harbour Sailboat Cruise Including Three Course Dinner for $96 details
- Private Street Food Tour of Auckland with a Local Guide for $156 details
- Flavours of the City Walking Food Tour for $103 details
Typical food prices in Auckland, as reported by previous travelers, are outlined below. These costs offer a snapshot of what meals might cost in the city. Your personal expenses will vary depending on the type of dining experiences you choose and the dishes you order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Auckland
It's easy to see why people visit Auckland, given its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and beaches.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Auckland typically cost an average of $28 (NZ$46) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$28
NZ$46
Some of the most interesting sights in Auckland include the Auckland War Memorial Museum, Sky Tower, Auckland Regional Botanic Gardens, and Otara Flea Market. The Auckland Zoo, the StarDome Observatory, and the Auckland Art Gallery are all worth a visit as well. Clearly, you'll find plenty of activities here, and you should plan to spend at least a day, if not two or three in this amazing city. Auckland is usually the start of a New Zealand itinerary for these reasons, too.
Also consider doing a trip to the Waitakere Ranges, about a forty five minute drive from the city. This scenic drive begins in Titirangi and follows a beautiful coastline. You will see impressive waterfalls and some beautiful beaches. The town of Titirangi is an artistic suburb with many art galleries and cafes, making for a nice place to stop.
There are many activities that you can enjoy in Auckland. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or looking for something a little more cultural, then you'll likely find something you enjoy. For sports lovers there are cricket or rugby matches at Eden Park. For adrenaline junkies, do a Sky Jump from the Sky Tower or try the Sky Walk, which is a 1.2 meter wide walkway that is 92 meters above the ground and has no hand rails. For more ideas, check out this guide to things to do in New Zealand which lists plenty of activities in the area.
And why not just relax at the beach. Auckland has plenty around so find a good spot to spend the day at one of Auckland's 25 best beaches, as the weather is warm for most of the year.
Museums and Attractions:
People flock to Auckland for its renowned museums and famous landmarks. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Beaches:
Many people flock to Auckland for a serene day at the beach. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.
Shopping:
Shopping here is something you definitely shouldn't overlook. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Auckland. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Small Group Tour from Auckland for $239 details
- Zombie Bite Escape Room Experiences for $162 details
- Waitomo Glowworm & Ruakuri Twin Cave Experience - Small Group Tour From Auckland for $256 details
Listed below are some typical prices for attractions, activities, and entry fees in Auckland, sourced from actual travelers. These costs give you an idea of how much you might spend. However, your personal expenses will depend on the activities you choose, the museums or landmarks you visit, and how frequently you opt for free or low-cost options.
Nightlife Budget in Auckland
The nightlife in Auckland is vibrant and lively, with visitors reveling in evenings spent at local bars, clubs, and parties. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $13 (NZ$23) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Auckland per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$13
NZ$23
While nightlife can be a blast, skipping a few rounds can significantly lower your travel expenses.
Be vigilant if you're out at night, especially if alcohol is involved. Thieves often target distracted individuals, so it's smart to stay with trusted friends and avoid going off by yourself.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Auckland. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Auckland Coastal Experience - Small Group City & Beach Tour Incl. Wine Tasting for $210 details
- Private Tour - Muriwai Beach & Wine Tasting for $138 details
- Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Auckland with 3-Course Vineyard Lunch for $102 details
Travel cost data last updated: Feb 9, 2024
Traveling in Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland is located on the North Island of New Zealand on an isthmus between the Northland Peninsula and the other parts of the North Island. Auckland is not only a city but also a region. In 2010 New Zealand combined what had previously been four separate cities into one region. These cities include the southern city of Manukau, the western city of Waitakere, the North Shore in the north, and Auckland City. The City of Auckland is the largest city in Polynesia and is very diverse with many expatriates from elsewhere in Polynesia. This diversity becomes most apparent in Auckland's many festivals and sporting events.
Auckland is both the "City of Sails" and the "City of Volcanoes". The title as the "City of Sails" comes from the many yachts that can be found in the Waitemata Harbour as well as the Hauraki Gulf. It's many volcanoes, all of which are extinct, define its natural landscape. There are about 48 volcanoes that make up the Auckland Volcanic Field.
Auckland's climate is temperate and temperatures remain moderate throughout the year. The summer season is between December and March. This is when the sun is at its peak and temperatures are warmest. Between the months of April and June temperatures become cooler and rain is quite common from the end of June through October.
Neighborhoods & Around
There are a variety of different neighborhoods around Auckland. The Inner City, or the central business district, has the majority of the city's hotels and attractions. This is also where you'll find Viaduct Harbour. Ponsonby is a trendy cafe and artist's neighborhood about five minutes west of the central business district. This area also has lots of boutique shopping. Newmarket is the main shopping district with both local designers and international chains. Devonport is a seaside suburb on the North Shore with a quaint village atmosphere. Mt Eden offers a great view from the top of the mountain. St Lukes is a large mall with a movie theatre, bars, and restaurants.
Related
Looking for a party in
Auckland or somewhere else in
New Zealand?
Traveling
alone or with a group?
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.