Whether you are travelling solo or in a group, there are always interesting things to do in every country. In this case, we have Auckland, the most cosmopolitan city in New Zealand. Thus, how can it be boring over there even if you are alone? Here is a list of interesting things to do if you intend to go solo in cosmopolitan Auckland.
Run, Bike Or Walk Along Nelson Street Cycleway
A pink cycling-cum-walking pathway in the middle of Auckland’s central motorway junction? This revamp of a redundant highway has promoted active living amongst locals and encouraged the appreciation for urban design aesthetics. The intricate Maori designs, fancy LED lights and eye-catching pink path should also be able to lure plenty of people to head there for insta-time. It’s the ideal place to take a load of pictures, go for a solo bike ride or just admire the cityscape in peace. At night, the path even glows, which adds on to the insta-factor.
Lounging At Mission Bay Beach
An idyllic and beautiful waterfront suburb about a 20-minute drive out of central Auckland, one of the main things to do in Mission Bay is literally nothing at all. At Mission Bay Beach, all you need to do is just relax and revel in the luxury of doing nothing but gaze at the pristine waters and city buildings which are around four miles away. The amazing aspect about Mission bay Beach is that you can lounge all day on the beach — occasionally heading into the ocean to take cooling dips before coming back out to sunbathe again — but if you want to head back to the city in the evenings, you can take a leisurely walk along the coast and end up on Queen Street. You also get an unparalleled view of Rangitoto from your sandy vantage point. Rangitoto Island, Auckland’s youngest and largest volcano formed unexpectedly about 600 years ago, can also be seen. The fascinating symmetrical cone against the cerulean-blue sea, makes this backdrop truly exceptional.
Climb Mount Eden
Standing at a height of 196 metres, this is Auckland’s highest point and the views will most likely leave you on a high too. From the summit, you will get unparalleled and unobstructed 360-degree panoramas of Auckland and beyond. What’s more, it’s only a ten-minute hike up to the top. Once at the summit, you can see a giant crater. Myth claims that some kind of deity lives within it and guards the secrets of the Earth.
Catch An Outdoor Movie At Silo Park
Silo Park is located at Wynyard Quarter on Auckland's waterfront. It's host to amazing events and exhibitions. But the main highlight of the park is the Silo Cinema: Auckland’s favourite outdoor cinema, in which every year it will feature an interesting lineup of food trucks, vibrant music, entertainment and movies. To enjoy some quality solo time, go ahead and catch an outdoor movie here for the ultimate outdoor theatre experience. Remember to bring a blanket and arrive as early as possible in order to secure yourself an ideal spot!
Shopping At Queen Street And Britomart
From luxe to bargain finds, and the best souvenir shops in town, Queen Street tops the list of shopaholics. This is a good place to start when on a shopping mission in Auckland’s CBD. These days, Queen Street has to compete with modern malls and city-edge hubs for the attention of shoppers. Just a few steps away from the waterfront and decorated with fresh architecture, Britomart is an attractive shopping place. On top of that, it is also the home of New Zealand fashion. If you intend to pick up some local fashion pieces, this is the street to check out in Auckland. You will have an abundance of quality brands to choose from.
To all solo travellers out there, travelling alone does not and will never take away the many interesting aspects of vacationing. Trust me on that and consider trying out a few of the above recommended activities for a more fun-filled solo trip if you happen to visit Auckland in the near future.
