What Should You Pack for Auckland?
Auckland has mild weather year-round, so layers are your best friend! In spring and fall, pack a light sweater or jacket for cooler mornings and evenings, and short sleeve shirts for the warmer afternoons. Summers are perfect for dresses or shorts, but always have a light jacket or sweater on hand for breezy days. Winter in Auckland is cool and rainy, so a good rain jacket or umbrella is essential, along with warm layers like sweaters and long sleeve shirts. Comfortable shoes are a must for all the walking around!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting Auckland Harbour, exploring Waiheke Island, hiking in the Waitakere Ranges, and touring the Auckland Museum.
Dress Code
Auckland has a relaxed but trendy vibe, with a mix of casual and smart-casual styles. During the day, comfortable clothing like jeans, shorts, and casual dresses work well for sightseeing. For dining out or attending events like concerts or theater shows, you might want to dress up a bit more—think a nice dress or stylish pants with a blazer. Aucklanders love outdoor activities, so packing activewear for hiking and exploring the islands is always a good idea!
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Spring
55 – 70°F
(13 – 21°C
)
Summer
60 – 77°F
(16 – 25°C
)
Fall
55 – 70°F
(13 – 21°C
)
Winter
45 – 60°F
(7 – 16°C
)
Spring: Mild, with occasional rain and breezy days
Summer: Warm, with clear skies and mild evenings
Fall: Cool, with some rain
Winter: Chilly and wet, with overcast skies
Spring
3.0 inches of rain
Summer
2.5 inches of rain
Fall
3.2 inches of rain
Winter
4.3 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for warm afternoons—I loved having these for casual outings!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for cooler days or hiking.
3. Sweaters: Ideal for layering when it gets chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings.
4. Tank Tops: Great for hot summer days or visiting the beach.
5. Casual Jacket: A light jacket is essential for Auckland’s breezy weather.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Shorts: Perfect for summer sightseeing and exploring the islands.
2. Pants: Great for cooler days or evenings—I really liked these for both casual and semi-formal settings!
3. Dresses: Ideal for warm summer days or dressing up for a nice dinner.
4. Skirt: A versatile option for day trips and evenings out.
5. Leggings: Comfortable for travel days or layering with longer tops and dresses.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around the city—I really liked how practical these were for exploring Auckland’s neighborhoods!
2. Sandals: Perfect for beach days and casual outings on Waiheke Island.
3. Hat: A must for sun protection while hiking or lounging by the water.
4. Sunglasses: Don’t forget these for those bright New Zealand summer days.
5. Swimsuit: Ideal for beach outings or relaxing by the pool.
6. Sarong: Perfect for covering up at the beach or for a casual lunch by the water.
7. Beach Coverup: Great for transitioning from a beach day to exploring the city.
8. Pajamas: Lightweight and cozy, ideal for Auckland’s mild evenings.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Great for a short trip or weekend getaway.
2. Daypack: Ideal for hiking trips to the Waitakere Ranges or exploring the islands.
3. Purse: A small purse for carrying essentials while exploring the city.
4. Tote Bag: Perfect for shopping or carrying extra layers while exploring the city.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layers: Auckland’s weather can change quickly, so having layers like sweaters and jackets is key for comfort.
- Comfortable shoes: Exploring the city and nearby islands involves a lot of walking, so pack sturdy shoes or sandals.
- Rain gear: Even in summer, Auckland can get sudden showers, so a light rain jacket or compact umbrella is helpful.
- Sun protection: The New Zealand sun is strong, so always pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for outdoor activities.
Auckland Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT AUCKLAND?
February is the best month to visit Auckland because it’s summer, and the weather is warm with long, sunny days. February’s also great because it’s less crowded than the holiday season, and perfect for outdoor activities like beach visits and hiking.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN AUCKLAND?
Auckland Lantern Festival (February): A family-friendly event celebrating Chinese New Year with lantern displays, food stalls, and cultural performances.
Pasifika Festival (March): A large celebration of Pacific Island cultures with performances, crafts, and traditional food, ideal for families and solo travelers.
New Zealand International Film Festival (July/August): A festival showcasing local and international films, great for couples and movie enthusiasts.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN AUCKLAND?
Auckland is a vibrant city with both urban attractions and natural beauty. One of my favorite places is Waiheke Island, just a short ferry ride away, where you can enjoy vineyards, beaches, and stunning views. Explore the Auckland Harbour for great shopping and dining, or head to the Waitakere Ranges for hiking and waterfalls. The Auckland Museum offers insight into Maori culture and history, and a walk around the Parnell neighborhood is perfect for art and boutique shopping.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT AUCKLAND?
4-5 days is ideal to explore Auckland’s city highlights, nearby islands, and nature reserves. A weekend trip can cover the main attractions.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit Auckland Harbour, explore the Auckland Museum, and take a ferry to Waiheke Island. Spend day two hiking in the Waitakere Ranges and visiting Parnell for art and shopping.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, take a boat trip to Rangitoto Island and hike to the summit for stunning views. Spend day four wine tasting on Waiheke Island. On day five, visit the beaches of the North Shore and explore the Auckland Art Gallery.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, explore the Auckland Zoo and the nearby Western Springs Park. On day seven, visit the Howick Historical Village and spend the evening at Mission Bay.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, visit the Auckland Domain and spend the afternoon in Ponsonby. Spend day nine exploring the nearby island of Tiritiri Matangi for birdwatching. On day ten, relax at the beaches of Piha and Karekare on the west coast.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, take a day trip to the Coromandel Peninsula to explore the hot water beaches. Spend day twelve visiting the Hobbiton Movie Set. On days thirteen and fourteen, take a trip to Rotorua for geothermal wonders and Maori cultural experiences.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN AUCKLAND?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Dress
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Casual Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Casual Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Casual Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Casual Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Casual Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR AUCKLAND?
Heavy winter coats: Auckland’s winters are mild, so thick coats are unnecessary.
High heels: Auckland’s hills and outdoor activities make comfortable shoes a better option for most outings.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO AUCKLAND ?
Airfare: $500-$1,200 depending on your starting location and season. Prices are higher in summer and during major events.
Accommodation: $100-$300 per night depending on the hotel or Airbnb options. Rates increase during summer and festivals.
Transportation: $30-$70 per day for public transport or rental cars.
Meals: $30-$80 per day depending on whether you dine at casual spots or fine dining establishments.
Activities: $40-$100 per day for tours, ferry rides, and museum visits.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN AUCKLAND? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
No, tipping is not mandatory in New Zealand. However, it’s appreciated in restaurants and cafés if you feel you’ve received excellent service. Tipping in taxis and for hotel staff is also optional.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT AUCKLAND BEFORE I VISIT?
- Public transport: Auckland has an efficient bus and ferry system, so it’s easy to get around without a car.
- Weather changes: Auckland’s weather can change quickly, so always have a jacket or umbrella on hand.
- Beach safety: Some Auckland beaches have strong riptides, so always swim between the flags where lifeguards are present.
- Water activities: Auckland offers plenty of opportunities for water activities, so don’t forget your swimsuit if you’re heading to the beaches or islands.