A day out in Wynyard Quarter: Your guide to Auckland's waterfront

Wynyard Quarter, one of Auckland’s most vibrant waterfront destinations, offers a mix of fun activities, laid-back dining, and stunning harbour views. Let’s dive into what makes Wynyard Quarter great!

Explore Wynyard Quarter

Start your day by wandering through Wynyard Quarter’s charming streets and open spaces. This area is a fascinating blend of Auckland’s past and present, where industrial heritage meets urban renewal. 

Stroll along the waterfront to admire the impressive superyachts docked in the marina or pause to snap photos of vibrant street art. This precinct boasts an art trail dotted with 16 impressive public artworks across different artistic disciplines to discover. Silo 6 is also a unique exhibition space, where the inside of these cylinders feature curated works by different artists.

On Sundays, hop aboard the historic Auckland Dockline Tram for a nostalgic ride through this dynamic precinct. The tram runs a loop around Wynyard Quarter and is a fun way to learn about the sights and history of this neighbourhood

Walk along to Karanga Plaza, a relaxing ‘urban beach’. It’s the perfect spot for admiring the city skyline, taking in views of the harbour or simply soaking up some sun and city energy. Dip your toes into the tidal steps or take a refreshing plunge into the Karanga Plaza Harbour Pool, an enclosed place to cool off for free.

Extend your waterfront visit with a walk across the Te Wero Wynyard Crossing Bridge to the Viaduct Harbour. Along the way, stop by the New Zealand Maritime Museum to learn about the country’s rich nautical heritage.

Follow the path behind the Maritime Museum and you’ll discover a hidden gem: Hobson Wharf Pocket Park. Once home to a visiting America’s Cup team, this space now features musical seesaws and plenty of room to unwind and take in views of the harbour while enjoying a picnic lunch.

For the little ones

Wynyard Quarter offers one of the city’s most popular spots for outdoor play. Head to Silo Park’s playground, where kids can climb, slide, explore and even splash in the interactive spaces. The Silo Park Playline will keep curious little adventurers entertained. It features repurposed pipes from the old Wynyard Quarter tank farm that have been cleaned up and transformed into an interactive outdoor activity.

Outdoor basketball courts provide a space for a quick game, while Amey Daldy Park offers an oasis of green space for picnics and play. Pack a frisbee, grab a coffee from a nearby café, and relax while the kids burn off energy on the rolling hills.

Dining by the sea

When it comes to food, Wynyard Quarter is a popular dining precinct, known for its laidback energy and harbour views. For seafood lovers, the Auckland Fish Market is a must-visit. Explore a sea of flavour with freshly caught fish, sushi, and other seafood delights from a range of eateries, all served in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

For a more upscale dining experience, Baduzzi is renowned for its mouth-watering Italian dishes, famous meatballs and welcoming vibe, making the perfect spot to settle in for a long lunch or a lively dinner. Onemata is also one to have on your radar, with its sleek interiors, harbourside views and utterly delicious meals making for an unforgettable dining experience. Or, if casual dining is your preference, The Conservatory offers delicious meals served with stunning waterfront views. 

And for a laid-back drink in the sun, The Good Luck Coconut serves tropical-inspired cocktails and bites that perfectly complement the waterfront setting. Craving something sweet? Happiness is… a scoop (or two) of Gelatiamo’s delectable ice cream. 

Community events and entertainment

Wynyard Quarter comes alive with events throughout the year, offering plenty of reasons to visit. The Auckland Night Market at Silo Park (held every Saturday and Sunday evening) is a feast for the senses, featuring a variety of food stalls serving sweet and savoury delights.

During the summer months, Silo Park also transforms into an outdoor cinema. Films are projected onto the giant silos against a picturesque waterfront setting. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy an open-air movie under the stars. Silo Cinema is a free event for all ages; keep an eye out to see screening dates and movies.

For arts and culture enthusiasts, the ASB Waterfront Theatre, home to Auckland Theatre Company, hosts an evolving range of performances, from plays to dance shows. The dazzling, award-winning building is hard to miss, with its twinkling exterior hinting at the entertainment within. Grab a pre-show bite at Wynyard Quarter or enjoy a drink at the theatre’s bar.