Things to do in North Island, New Zealand: The Best City Tours

April 29, 2022 Layne Dawes

Discover the best top things to do in North Island, New Zealand including Wellington Waterfront Bike Tour, "City of Sails" highlights - private tour with German tour guide, 60-Minute Napier Deco City Tour by Vintage Car , Half-day Discover Auckland City Sightseeing Tour, Hawke's Bay Wine Tour Including Pick Up From Napier or Hastings, Wellington Sightseeing Tour, Auckland Hidden Gems Tour- A personalised introduction to Auckland, Twilight Progressive Winery Tour Including 3-Course Meal and Matching Wines, Small Group Best of Napier Tour, Guided 10am Morning Art Deco Walk From Napier Art Deco Trust.
Restaurants in North Island

1. Wellington Waterfront Bike Tour

Adventure Capital, Ground floor, West Wing Wellington Railway Station, 2 Bunny Street, Pipitea, Wellington 6011, New Zealand Adventure Capital
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5.0 based on 9 reviews

This privately guided bicycle tour, starts from our base located inside the Wellington Railway Station conveniently located near all the major hotels, ferries and cruise terminal. View the Houses of Parliament and the Beehive, before heading on to the waterfront cycle lanes passing plenty of public artwork and buildings of significance, including Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand. Once past the golden sands of Oriental Bay, the route then heads towards the wild south coast, home to Little Blue Penguins and the unique Victorian architecture of Wellington. Visit the Meridian Energy Wind Sculpture Trail before heading back to the beachside village for an ice-cream or barista made coffee. Before returning to our base in the railway station, two more stops will help explain the conservation story of Wellington and a nice photostop. The route is flat and follows cycle lanes. Wind can be a significant factor in Wellington; some fitness and a good level of bike confidence needed.

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Local taxes, Local guide, Use of bicycle, Use of helmet

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Reviewed By KRobinson83

The guides were fantastic, any bike issues we resolved before we left. They even provided a rain jacket (which thankfully we didn't need, even though the ride started wet) We set off, with many stops to ensure the group stayed together, constantly checked how people were going. Felt very safe when we were guided to follow the road side for the tour around the heads. Lots of information and time for questions to be asked. Then it was time to ride back.... Well didn't the weather turn it on... The group was split as the return trip was into 45kmh wind gusts, but the guides were able to keep with the split groups and still provide info and answer questions until we were re-united as one group. Highly recommend the tour, even if you are not fully into cycling.

2. "City of Sails" highlights - private tour with German tour guide

Beautiful Nature Tours Auckland
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

German / English speaking City highlights and an insight into the history of the Maori On this half-day tour you will experience the impressive volcanic world of Auckland, sniff Maori history and experience firsthand how it is in the “City of Sails”. Discover the harbor with its impressive super yachts before we visit Bastion Point and get an insight into the history of the Maoris. From here it goes to a cozy beach district, far from mass tourism with a great view of Rangitoto, the largest volcano in Auckland and Browns Island. Afterwards we visit Maungakieke, the third largest volcanic mountain in Auckland. It is an important memorial for both Maori and other New Zealanders. Maungakiekie offers a magnificent view of the Hauraki Gulf, Auckland City and Rangitoto and rounds off the eventful morning. I am happy to comply with individual wishes and the process can be designed flexibly.

Inclusions: Local taxes, Bottled water, Driver / guide, Local guide, Hotel / port pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By c1119

We loved our private tour with Gesa. On our way from downtown Auckland to the beautiful west coast black sand beach she helped us understand the lay of the land and local culture. The walk through the forest was beautiful and she pointed out the differences between the different vegetation at different elevations as we made our way to see the Gannet birds and beach. If we had another day we would have booked another tour! Highly recommend this company. She will alter the trip based on what you’d like to see.

3. 60-Minute Napier Deco City Tour by Vintage Car

Napier i-SITE Visitor Information Centre, 100 Marine Parade, Napier South, Napier 4110, New Zealand Hooters Vintage and Classic Vehicle Hire
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5.0 based on 21 reviews

An enjoyable light-hearted introduction to Art Deco Napier. This one hour tour is a great chance to experience the splendour of travelling in a beautifully restored vintage car. Sit back and imagine you are being driven through Napier in its heyday of the 1930's, with it's immaculately maintained buildings and your chauffeur dressed in their Art Deco finery. Learn about Napier's remarkable history of devastation and rebirth; the earthquake that shaped the city we live in today and the stories of the people who make it such an interesting little city to visit. Our guides are passionate about what they do and have free rein to design their own tours so that you get the very best of them. There is also limited flexibility, meaning that if you wish to visit a certain area or wish to stop somewhere to take photos then you simply ask your chauffeur. The time is yours, and should you wish to extend then that can usually be arranged.

Inclusions: Private transportation

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By Wolfam123

From the time we were picked up to drop off,we had a ball.A stunning day with the best guides.Great chance to sit back and enjoy the sights.I cannot recommend this tour more highly.From the older people in our group to the teenager.It was a highlight of our holiday up the coast.Keep up the great job and again thankyou KIM

4. Half-day Discover Auckland City Sightseeing Tour

Auckland 1010, New Zealand Auckland City Tours
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4.9 based on 304 reviews

Enjoyable, informative and a great day out... Explore Auckland in small groups for a more personalised experience. An exceptional value, we offer a very comprehensive tour covering all the best sights, with plenty of stops for photos. • Discover our sparkling harbour, stunning beaches, historic buildings, leafy parks, Victorian suburbs, and bustling shopping areas. • Enjoy fantastic views from the top of our volcanoes. • Travel over the Harbour Bridge for great views of our city. • Learn about Auckland, the geography, history, and our way of life.  • Comfortable air-conditioned Mini-Bus takes you to a greater variety of sights.  • Choice of Morning or Afternoon Tour. 3.5 hours - 4 hours.  • Hotel pick-up from Central City Hotels, or from our convenient downtown departure point.  

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Professional guide with live commentary, Hotel pick up & drop-off (Inner city hotels only)

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By sarahlynnsan

soon after arriving in Auckland we got in the van to see the city. The guide/owner was so friendly and was a wealth of knowledge. we saw a number of sites in a very comfortable van. we learned alot about the city in a short period of time

5. Hawke's Bay Wine Tour Including Pick Up From Napier or Hastings

Bay Tours and Charters
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4.9 based on 21 reviews

The Classic Afternoon Wine Tour is the perfect way to get out of the small cities, see the famous countryside and taste the wines that have made this region iconic. You will travel with like-minded tourists from NZ and overseas and we guarantee you will have fun, learn about Hawke's Bay and taste some amazing food & wine. Bay Tours is Hawke's Bay's longest running wine tour company. We are family owned with a number of wine tour hosts that all share the same passion for Hawke's Bay, its wine and showing our region off to visitors.

Inclusions: Hotel pickup, Certified guide

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Reviewed By melanie-taylor89

Just wanted to say we had a great experience with Murray as our driver last night... we used your service for us to get to six60 and we highly recommend and use your service again

6. Wellington Sightseeing Tour

Wellington, Wellington, Greater Wellington, North Island Xplor Tours
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4.9 based on 208 reviews

Must See and Fun Tour of Wellington Where your Wellington adventure begins … Features include: • Downtown entertainment area of Wellington • Mt Victoria • Rugged Coastline • Weta Cave • Southern Hemisphere’s largest roundabout • War Memorial park • Cable Car • Lady Norwood Rose Gardens • Southern Hemisphere’s largest wooden building • Parliament Grounds • Old St Paul’s Cathedral

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Hotel pickup and drop-off, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Tour escort/host, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, Air-conditioned vehicle, Transport by private vehicle

Exclusions: Drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By Neverbefore21

We were picked up from our overnight stay by an amazing guide. She was friendly, chatty and so informative. As first time visitors to Wellington with limited time, this tour was ideal. The history of various suburbs, most important places and great photo stops made this tour memorable. This is highly recommended.

7. Auckland Hidden Gems Tour- A personalised introduction to Auckland

SkyCity Auckland, Victoria Street &, Federal Street, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010, New Zealand Toru Tours
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4.8 based on 173 reviews

Small-group personalized 3-hour tour, showing you the highlights of what makes Auckland so special. From the diverse eateries and best shopping to the many volcanoes, working farms and Auckland's beautiful gardens. Along the way, you will learn about the Maori culture and settler history.

Inclusions: Local guide, Hotel or port pickup (Morning tour only) and drop-off at centrally-located drop off points, Air-conditioned vehicle, Free limited Wifi offered on request.

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Entrance fees (not specified)

Reviewed By RyanYMelb

I did the Auckland Three Hours Express Tour hosted by Paul. Paul gave an excellent overview of Auckland with beautiful pit stops along the way. I really enjoyed myself, especially since I only had one full day in Auckland. Whilst the tour was only 3 hours long, in no way did it ever felt rushed. We had ample time to explore at each stop, and any other potential attractions of interest were recommended to us along the way. Paul was also really patient and passionate in sharing both his city and culture, which made the whole tour really informative and enjoyable. Overall, I would strongly recommend the express tour, and definitely look forward to joining any of Paul’s other offerings when I do come back to visit. Thanks mate! Ryan

8. Twilight Progressive Winery Tour Including 3-Course Meal and Matching Wines

Bay Tours and Charters
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4.8 based on 4 reviews

The Twilight Progressive Winery Tour is your chance to dine at 3 of the world class restaurants and enjoy the very best wines of Hawke's Bay all in one memorable evening. A typical twilight tour includes stops at Craggy Range, Mission Estate & Elephant Hill or Urban Winery. As well as sunset views at the top of Te Mata Peak - on the peak you will find out first hand what makes it the regions #1 sightseeing destination. You will travel with like-minded visitors from NZ and overseas and we guarantee you will have fun, learn about Hawke's Bay and taste some of the best food & wine in New Zealand. Bay Tours is Hawke's Bay's longest running wine tour company. We are family owned with a number of wine tour hosts that all share the same passion for Hawke's Bay, its wine and showing our region off to visitors. Each tour will either be in our Luxury BMW 7 series sedan or EVM Mercedes Sprinter van. Restaurant venues are subject to availability.

Inclusions: 3 course progressive dinner at 3 different world class restuarants., Each course is expertly matched with at least 2 different premium wines, Air-conditioned vehicle

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Reviewed By melanie-taylor89

Just wanted to say we had a great experience with Murray as our driver last night... we used your service for us to get to six60 and we highly recommend and use your service again

9. Small Group Best of Napier Tour

56 Marine Parade, Bluff Hill, Napier 4110, New Zealand Tour Napier
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4.7 based on 15 reviews

Small group tour by minibus in air conditioned comfort with a friendly, knowledgeable local driver/guide to show you all the highlights of Napier and the surrounding areas. This very popular tour with live commentary includes • the world-famous Art Deco City of Napier • fantastic scenery including Te Mata Peak • treat yourself to some local wine or beer in picturesque gardens • try locally-produced ice cream (seasonal) • explore the visitor centre at the largest beekeeping business in the Southern Hemisphere - try NZ's unique Manuka honey and watch live bees at work. • fascinating art gallery & sculpture garden • traditional-style sweet shop  • Art Deco homes at Marewa, Napier's Art Deco suburb • Bluff Hill Lookout • the historic fishing village of Ahuriri

Inclusions: Driver/guide providing live commentary on board, Air-conditioned vehicle, Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting point, Free courtesy shuttle buses provided between the meeting point and the Port of Napier, Complimentary honey tasting at Arataki Honey Visitor Centre

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Any purchases you may choose to make during the tour

Reviewed By Lynette W

We did a vintage car tour. It was 1 hour in a lovely old car called buttercup. We loved it. I booked it because my 87 year old Dad came to visit us in Napier. I’m not sure who enjoyed it more my 87 year old Dad or my 12 year old Son. Definitely recommend this trip.

10. Guided 10am Morning Art Deco Walk From Napier Art Deco Trust

7 Tennyson Street, Napier South, Napier 4110, New Zealand Art Deco Trust
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4.7 based on 58 reviews

Discover the fascinating story of Napier’s heritage on this easy walking tour. Check in for the walk, watch a 20- minute film about the earthquake then take an hours walk around the city centre to see the Art Deco architecture.

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Local guide, Professional guide

Exclusions: DVD (available to purchase), Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Reviewed By SophieAM12345678910

The short film was very informative and our guide was pleasant but the tour lacked depth and seemed centred around looking at the information boards that are readily available for everyone to look at for free! Perhaps better to go in the morning when you can enter the foyers of some of the buildings if you’re very keen, as although many buildings were pointed out I did not see or find out anything of interest other than what I was able to observe walking along Emerson and Tennyson without a guide! I certainly won’t be recommending this tour!

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