Looking to study in the perfect metropolitan city which offers a mix of a lavish urban lifestyle and scenic beauty? Look no further! Auckland is the ideal city for all international students. Study at premier universities like the University of Auckland or Auckland University of Technology to kick-start your future. If you are an international student and wondering about the things to do in Auckland, this will be a good read for you.
Yum-yum!
Just like Malaysians, Kiwis are passionate about food too! As a result, you will definitely find a variety of cuisines, both local and multi-ethnic. Dining out in Auckland is an adventure by itself as there are thousands of restaurants to choose from! We have listed 2 of our favourite restaurants that offer mouthwatering food at reasonable rates.
Hello Beasty
It’s a highly rated modern-fusion restaurant serving contemporary NZ cuisine coupled with delicious Asian cuisine which is worth every penny. Drive down from the university or take a bus on a lazy Sunday afternoon with your friends, to enjoy good food, long conversations and a great ambience. We recommend you to try Hapuka fish, tuna tartar, the karaage chicken, the wagyu kushiyaki and even their charred broccolini.
Distance from Universities
- University of Auckland - Hello Beasty: 10mins drive
- Auckland University of Technology - Hello Beasty: 15mins drive
Scarecrow
A little gem located in the heart of the city, Scarecrow is a gourmet cafe and an urban farmers market, showcasing Auckland's regional artisan producers. They serve delicious vegan and gluten-free food which is worth gorging on. And, what’s more? Aucklanders love their coffee! So, this cafe is the perfect place to taste the organically sourced fresh coffee.
Distance from Universities
- University of Auckland - Scarecrow: 10mins walk
- Auckland University of Technology - Scarecrow: 8mins walk
They See Me Rollin', They Hatin'
There are numerous museums, galleries and monuments in Auckland. These places are not only popular among tourists but they are also pretty affordable and won't burn a hole through your pocket! Here are a few venues which you must visit.
Sky Tower
Located smack-dab in the middle of the city, it is also known as the adrenaline hub of Auckland. It’s just like KLCC in Malaysia, the Auckland Sky Tower is a must-visit tourist attraction in New Zealand. If you happen to have big guts, go up there and do some Sky Jump or Sky Walk. Don’t think you’ll be afraid of anything after that!
Pink Path
The Nelson Street Cycleway or popularly known as the Pink Path is a beautiful stretch for cyclists or runners. Its glass walls, LED mood lighting system and bright colours make this path a sight to behold. Don’t say we never give you tips! Visit the pink path in the evening or night time to be amazed by the lighting + it’s extra romantic too...
Bucket List Done!
Our favourite part about New Zealand is the generous stretch of picturesque landscape. No matter where you go, you are bound to fall in love with the place! Living in Auckland is no different. Right from extinct volcanoes to harbours filled with yachts, this city will never cease to amaze you.
Climb a Volcano
Image Source: https://www.newzealand.com/ie/
Please take a break from your studies and have fun sometimes. Go on a trekking expedition with your friends and climb extinct volcanoes (they are dead and won’t erupt so no worries) to experience a sight so magnificent it will take your breath away! We strongly suggest you visit the Pukekawa and the One Tree Hill volcano. By the way, don’t forget to pack some food. You’re gonna get hungryyyy!
Harbour View
Auckland is known as the City of Sails and we cannot simply agree more. You don’t have to own a yacht to enjoy the view from the harbour. Just look at the yachts owned by other people and simply walk around the harbour to look at the stunning coral green ocean that stretches across for miles.
I'm Going On An Adventure!
If you are thinking of things to do in Auckland, then adrenaline-filled activities should be at the top of your list. Also, this is probably the best time for you to experience some extreme sports since you’re still young and your mother is not around to stop you from doing so. (PS: Whatever you do, please follow the rules and don’t try to be a hero k.)
Do Dive in Head-first
The Auckland harbour bridge is the perfect spot for a Bungy jump. New Zealand has a lot of spots for bungy-jumping, but the Auckland harbour bridge is the only place where you can opt for an ocean dip. So, go ahead and dive in headfirst for an exhilarating experience.
Take the Leap
Have you ever fancied yourself leaping out of an aeroplane like they do in the movies? Then why don’t you try skydiving in Auckland? You can choose to take the leap from a whopping height of 16,500ft! Yeah, sounds pretty scary but it’s not that bad compared to when your girlfriend found out you ate without her.. The dropzone offers a clear view of the entire city and we can guarantee that you will enjoy the serenity of a beautiful parachute ride and witness the stunning landscape that spreads across in aevery direction.
Safely Out of the Jaws of Death
If you can survive your crush rejecting you, swimming with sharks is definitely nothing for you! This is in a controlled environment, keep calm and just do it. The Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium is home to several Great White Sharks! You can either choose to snorkel in a cage or scuba dive without a cage, alongside these majestic creatures. Sounds exciting right?
Overall, Auckland is not only a great place for students to study, as some of the top Universities in New Zealand are situated right here (University of Auckland & Auckland University of Technology), but it’s also one of the best places for people to be adventurous and broaden their perspectives.
