Is travelling in a motorhome romantic?
There's something inherently romantic about hitting the road together in a motorhome. It's not just about the fun places to go in Auckland, but the quality time you'll spend together along the way. From a luxuriously lazy breakfast in bed to cuddling up under the stars, travelling by motorhome hire offers a unique blend of adventure and intimacy. Unlike traditional holiday accommodation, you have the flexibility to change your plans on a whim, adding an element of surprise and excitement to your romantic getaway.
Our top picks for romantic things to do in Auckland
Ready to explore the best romantic places in Auckland? Let’s dive in.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
1. Have a picnic at romantic Piha Beach
Located just 45 minutes west of Auckland's bustling city centre is romantic Piha Beach. This black-sand surf beach is framed by rugged cliffs and surrounded by native forest, making it a picturesque setting for a romantic picnic. Afterwards, you might like to take one of the many excellent walks surrounding the beach. Piha Beach is also one of the best places to visit in Auckland to watch the sunset. Make the most of your visit by staying for a night or two at the Piha Domain Motor Camp.
2. Relax at Parakai Hot Springs
For a truly relaxing romantic getaway in Auckland, we suggest a visit to Parakai Springs. Around 45 minutes drive from the city centre, these natural hot springs provide a tranquil setting to unwind and reconnect.
The thermal pools are naturally heated, offering therapeutic benefits that are perfect after a day of exploring Auckland's tourist attractions. Whether you're taking a dip in the main pool or opting for a more secluded private spa, the warm waters are sure to melt away any stress.
3. Take a horse ride on Muriwai Beach
When it comes to romantic getaways in Auckland, there’s nothing quite like a horse ride along a rugged beach. And Auckland’s Muriwai Beach is just the spot to do it. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a total novice, you’ll be in good hands with Muriwai Beach Horse Treks. Plod through the shallow water, take a gallop across the smooth sand, or explore the tree tunnels of Woodhill Forest. The combination of natural beauty and shared adventure sets the stage for a memorable romantic outing.
And with the convenience of your maui motorhome hire, you'll have the freedom to arrive early for a beachside breakfast, or stay late and catch the sunset.
4. Taste wines on Waiheke Island
A relaxing 35-minute ferry ride across the harbour, Waiheke Island is an idyllic destination for a couples retreat in Auckland. The island is famous for its variety of fantastic vineyards offering wine-tasting experiences. Many also come complete with panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and countryside. And the good news is you can take your motorhome hire from Auckland on the ferry for an extended stay.
5. Enjoy a movie in the park
One of the fun things to do in Auckland during the summer months is to head along to a movie in the park. Auckland Council's Movies in Parks offers free outdoor films from January to March, providing a magical setting for a romantic evening. As the sun sets, lay out your picnic rug and enjoy a film under the stars. The event features a range of movies, from animated flicks to recent blockbusters, ensuring there's something for every taste.
6. Have dinner at the top of the Sky Tower
For a dining experience that literally takes romance to new heights, consider heading to the top of Auckland's iconic Sky Tower. One of the most unique Auckland tourist attractions, the Sky Tower offers breathtaking views across the city. It’s also home to Orbit, a fine dining restaurant that revolves once every hour. Take in incredible 360-degree views of the city and Hauraki Gulf as you enjoy a delicious dinner from the Kiwi-inspired menu.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
7. See the sunrise from Maungawhau / Mount Eden
If you're an early riser, one of the must-do romantic things to do in Auckland is to catch the sunrise from Maungawhau / Mt Eden. As the highest natural point in Auckland, Mt Eden offers sweeping views of the city and its surrounding harbours.
Watching the sky change colours as the sun rises is a serene and intimate experience. The summit is easily accessible by a short walk, and the atmosphere at dawn is peaceful, allowing you and your partner to enjoy a quiet moment together. Note, Maungawhau / Mt Eden is vehicle-free, but you can park your maui motorhome hire in the visitor carpark and enjoy the short walk to the summit for this unforgettable experience.
8. Visit Karekare Waterfalls
Nestled in the Waitakere Ranges, Karekare Waterfalls is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil setting for a romantic getaway in Auckland. Just a 45-minute drive from the city centre, this waterfall is surrounded by lush native forest, providing a stunning scenic backdrop.
The waterfall is easily accessible via a short five-minute walking track. In summer, the pool at the base of the falls is perfect for a refreshing dip, or you can simply enjoy a picnic while listening to the soothing sounds of cascading water.
9. Kayak to Rangitoto Island
For adventurous couples, kayaking to Rangitoto Island is simply unbeatable. Located in the Hauraki Gulf, Rangitoto Island is a top Auckland tourist attraction.
This volcanic island is just a 75-minute kayak ride from the mainland. The journey itself is a bonding experience, as you paddle through calm waters with the city skyline gradually giving way to natural landscapes. Once you reach the island, you can hike to the summit for panoramic views that make the effort well worth it.
10. Park up and explore Takapuna Beach
Takapuna Beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. And good news for campervan travellers, this vibrant suburb has one of Auckland’s best campsites. Park up your campervan hire at the Takapuna Beach Holiday Park – it’s right by the beach and within walking distance of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Grab an ice cream from the beachside café and take a walk along the sand. Stroll down nearby Hurstmere Road for a spot of shopping. And for dinner, there’s a fantastic range of restaurants to choose from. Afterwards, head back to your cosy motorhome for a glass of wine as you take in the view across the water to Rangitoto Island.
11. Explore Auckland Botanic Gardens
Fancy walking among the roses or picnicking under a tree? Auckland Botanic Gardens is the place to do it. Located in Manurewa, the gardens span over 64 hectares and feature more than 10,000 plants from around the world. From the Magnolia Garden to the Spring Blossom Valley, there’s something amazing to see at any time of year.
12. See the penguins at Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium
One of the most unique Auckland tourist attractions is Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium. Located in Orakei, the aquarium offers a range of exhibits, but the star attraction for couples is undoubtedly the Antarctic Ice Adventure, home to New Zealand's only colony of sub-Antarctic penguins. Watching these adorable creatures waddle around and interact in their icy habitat is both entertaining and endearing, making it a memorable outing for couples. The aquarium also offers other exhibits like the Shark Tunnel and Seahorse Kingdom, adding variety to your visit.
13. Have a go at Lilliput Mini Golf
For a playful and light-hearted date, head along to Lilliput Mini Golf. Located on Tamaki Drive in the city, this popular Auckland tourist attraction offers a fun setting with its creatively designed golf course. With the perfect balance of challenge and fun, Lilliput makes for an ideal outing for couples of all ages. Whether you're competitive or just looking for a laugh, a round of mini golf is a great way to spend quality time together.
14. Take a whale and dolphin cruise
Head out onto Auckland’s sparkling harbour for the chance to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. Auckland Whale & Dolphin Safari’s 4.5-hour whale-watching cruise is one you’ll both remember for years to come. The tour departs from the Viaduct Basin in downtown Auckland. From there, you’ll cruise out to the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, one of the most abundant and diverse in the world. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and wait for the whales. There’s also a good chance that you’ll spot fur seals, sharks, manta rays, turtles, and seabirds too.
15. Take a cooking class
For couples who love to cook—or simply enjoy good food—a cooking class is a great thing to do in Auckland, New Zealand. Located in the heart of the city, Sachie's Kitchen offers a variety of Asian cooking classes, from the flavours of Japan and Thailand to Vietnam and India.
The classes are hands-on and interactive, making it a fun and educational date idea. You'll not only learn to prepare delicious dishes but also gain insights into the cultural significance of the ingredients and cooking techniques. Whether you opt for a sushi-making class or delve into the secrets of umami, the experience is sure to spice up your relationship.
Love is in the air in Auckland. Keen to visit?
From horse riding on a rugged West Coast beach to creating culinary masterpieces in the city, Auckland has it all on offer for couples. Exploring Auckland in a motorhome hire adds an extra layer of intimacy to your romantic getaway. With the freedom to roam, you can tailor your trip to include a mix of outdoor adventures and city luxuries, all while enjoying the comforts of your home on wheels.
Ready to make these romantic dreams a reality? Book your motorhome hire online today and set the wheels in motion for an unforgettable romantic getaway in Auckland.