The best things to do near Eden Park

Auckland is a vibrant city with plenty of popular activities to pack into a weekend, from world-class dining to urban green spaces and cultural experiences. With a whole weekend at your disposal, take advantage of the nearby attractions that offer a mix of nature, history, and adventure.

Soak in the stadium atmosphere

Immerse yourself in the pre-game buzz well before kick-off or the first chord strikes with the Eden Park Tour. Go behind the scenes of this iconic stadium, walk through the players' tunnel, imagine the roar of the crowd from the coaches' box, and even step onto the hallowed turf and get a sense of what it must feel like to be surrounded by fans. 

For a bird's-eye view and a dose of adrenaline, try the Sky Sport Rooftop Walk, offering a unique perspective of the sporting ground from the stadium’s roof. Those daring enough to don a harness will be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the city’s skyline, while learning about Eden Park’s 118-year history from guides.

Learn what’s on at Eden Park and around Auckland during your stay so you can plan your weekend in advance.

And if you want to learn more about New Zealand’s rugby history, culture and legends of the game, head to the All Blacks Experience. You’ll explore interactive zones where you can put your own skills to the test, and learn more about what it takes to pull on the Black jersey.

Fuel up near Eden Park

Kingsland and Morningside, the vibrant neighbourhoods surrounding Eden Park, offer a selection of fantastic places to eat and drink. You'll find everything from casual pubs to award-winning restaurants, all within easy walking distance of the stadium. Here are some of our top local recommendations:

• For breakfast or brunch, head to Crave, a charitable cafe doing good in the neighbourhood, with all profits given back to the community. It has a dynamic menu that changes weekly, but you’re guaranteed fresh seasonal ingredients, creative dishes and exceptional coffee.
• Kingsland Social offers a mouth-watering all-day menu. From light lunch options and salads through to pastas, burgers and toasted sandwiches, it’s a great place for a midday feed.
• A local institution, Morningside Tavern has a vibrant atmosphere and a wide selection of beers on tap, hearty pub food and delicious pizzas. Enjoy a cold drink in their large outdoor courtyard, or catch some live sport on one of the many big screens. Just a 7-minute walk to Eden Park, it’s a great spot to get in the spirit before a game or show.
• For a taste of something different, explore the diverse culinary scene on Dominion Road, offering everything from authentic Vietnamese pho to delicious Turkish kebabs.
• If you can’t get enough sports, grab a quick bite to eat at Full Time Sports Bar and Eatery in Kingsland. There are both small plates and mains to choose from, and a range of sporting codes always on the big screen.

If you’re keen to explore a range of Auckland’s culinary offerings, try The Big Foody Food Tours, designed to showcase Auckland’s food scene through the eyes of a local. These fun guided tours take you on an urban food safari, where you can sample delicious local delicacies, meet passionate food producers, and uncover some of Auckland’s favourite flavours that you might otherwise miss.

Visit Auckland Zoo

Home to over 135 species, Auckland Zoo offers an immersive experience where you can connect with native New Zealand wildlife and animals from around the world. Discover the lush high canopy habitat and you may see orangutans and agile gibbons traversing 25-metre-high aerial pathways, or visit the Africa Safari track, where lions, zebras, and rhinoceros roam.

The Zoo takes pride in its dedication to conservation and sustainability, working on initiatives to protect threatened and endangered species, both locally and globally. Find their free keeper talk schedule at aucklandzoo.co.nz or on the back of your Zoo map to gain fascinating insights into animal behaviours, diets, and habitats.

Explore Auckland’s historical and cultural highlights

Delve into New Zealand's rich history and cultural heritage at Auckland War Memorial Museum. Located in the Auckland Domain, you’ll find everything from Māori and Pacific artefacts to exhibitions on natural history and New Zealand’s role in both World Wars. 

With more than 17,500 artworks in its collection, the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is a must-see for art enthusiasts. You’ll find works by New Zealand artists alongside pieces from around the world, including incredible works by Māori and Pacific Island artists. The gallery often hosts rotating exhibitions, including major touring exhibitions, so there’s always something new to see.

MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology) is a unique attraction that showcases New Zealand’s innovations in transport and technology. From vintage trams and cars to interactive displays on aviation and telecommunications, you can journey through time and explore how technology has shaped history. The museum also has regular events and special programmes, so check out what’s on during your visit. 

Get outdoors

After exploring the museum, wander around the beautiful Pukekawa Auckland Domain, one of the city’s oldest and largest parks. It’s a popular space for locals to walk, or play sports like cricket or rugby. The native forest walk is a short but beautiful track that gives you a taste of New Zealand’s native flora and fauna. Take a leisurely stroll, admire the blooming flower gardens, and visit the Wintergardens, a Victorian-era glasshouse filled with exotic plants. 

Also just a short drive from Eden Park, Cornwall Park is one of Auckland’s most beloved green spaces. With picturesque walking trails through rolling hills, picnic areas, and stunning views from iconic One Tree Hill, it’s a relaxing spot to get some fresh air. There are also flower gardens and native trees to explore, offering the chance to spot native bird life. Grab a bite at the Cornwall Park Bistro or pack a picnic and enjoy the lush surroundings. 

Find indoor fun

For an adrenaline rush, challenge yourself at Clip N Climb, an indoor climbing centre designed for adventurers of all ages and abilities. With more than 30 themed climbing walls, each offering a different challenge, this isn’t your average rock climbing gym. The vibrant, colourful walls are designed to test both physical and mental agility, with challenges that range from traditional rock climbing styles to innovative obstacle courses.

Where to stay near Eden Park

For those looking to stay close to the action Auckland offers a wide range of accommodation options near Eden Park to suit every budget and preference. For a truly memorable option, try Staydium Glamping, right at Eden Park itself. Imagine spending the night under the stars in a cosy, beautifully furnished tent equipped with plush bedding and modern amenities, all while being just steps away from one of the world’s most famous playing fields. 

Here are some of our top hotel picks to plan your stay near Eden Park:

• Hotel Fitzroy curated by Fable: This luxury boutique hotel in Ponsonby provides a sophisticated 5-star atmosphere with a touch of old world charm. With beautiful interiors and a convenient location in one of Auckland’s social hotspots, it’s a great choice for those seeking a refined play to stay close to Eden Park
• Parkside Hotel & Apartments: With spacious, apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes, this hotel is ideal for those planning a longer stay or who appreciate the convenience of self-catering. Centrally located, it’s well-positioned for access to Eden Park, and Auckland’s attractions.
• Abstract Hotel & Residences: Contemporary in design, this hotel in the heart of Auckland has beautifully curated rooms, from studio suites to full apartments, making it suitable for a range of budgets and preferences.