Harbour Bridge & Devonport

The Auckland Harbour Bridge has spanned the Waitematā Harbour since 1959, connecting the city with the North Shore. The 1,020-meter-long structure — affectionately called "Coathanger" by Aucklanders — was expanded in 1969 with the infamous "Nippon Clip-Ons," two Japanese-made extensions that widened the roadway from four to eight lanes. The AJ Hackett Bungy and the Bridge Climb offer two adrenaline-pumping experiences with unbeatable views.

The Auckland Bridge Climb leads over ladders and walkways under and on the bridge — a 1.5-hour adventure with views of the skyline, the harbor, and the Hauraki Gulf. The guide tells the story of the bridge and the city. For the ultimate thrill, AJ Hackett offers the Bridge Bungy (40 meters over the water, 165 NZD) — a gentler bungy than the Kawarau Bridge in Queenstown, perfect for beginners or as a warm-up jump before the Nevis.

On the other side of the bridge lies Devonport — a charming harbor town that feels like an English fishing village by the sea. Victorian wooden houses in pastel colors, antique shops on Victoria Road, cozy cafés, and two volcanic cones offer the perfect contrast to bustling Auckland. Mount Victoria (Takarunga, 87 m, 15-minute climb from the main street) offers the best panoramic view of Auckland — the entire skyline with Sky Tower, the Harbour Bridge, the Hauraki Gulf, and Rangitoto in a perfect line. At sunset, with the skyline in golden light, this is Auckland's most photogenic viewpoint.

North Head (Maungauika) next door is a historic military fort with underground tunnels, gun emplacements, and bunkers from the 19th century — free to access. The tunnels are walkable (bring a flashlight!) and lead deep into the volcanic cone, past restored cannon positions that once protected Auckland's harbor. The view from the top over the entrance to the Waitematā Harbour is spectacular.

Devonport can be reached by Fullers Ferry in just 12 minutes from Downtown Auckland — the shortest and most beautiful ferry ride in the city. The main street (Victoria Road) offers cozy cafés (the Corelli's Café has been an institution since 1994), excellent fish & chips at Catch by the water (22 NZD), a Sunday Craft Market, and the best chocolate cake in Auckland at Devon on the Wharf.