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When backpacking in Auckland, there are many factors to consider, such as where to stay, how to use the public transport, and many more, but the most important one is: the cost of everyhting.
- In this extended guide, we’ll go through all you need to know, starting with the costs of daily basics, transport and how to save as much money as possible by using the best backpacking tips.Β
1. Daily Backpacking Costs in Auckland (NZD prices)
Hereβs a breakdown of daily backpacking costs in Auckland:
| Expense | Budget (Low-Cost) | Mid-Range | Notes |
| Accommodation | $35β$50 (dorm bed) | $80β$150 (private) | Hostels are cheapest; private rooms cost more. |
| Food | $10β$20 (groceries) | $25β$50 (eating out) | Cook to save money; cheap eats like kebabs and pies are affordable. |
| Transport | $5β$10 (bus/train) | $20β$30 (day pass) | AT HOP card saves on public transport. |
| Activities | Freeβ$20 (walks, museums) | $50β$150 (tours) | Many parks and museums are free; tours (e.g., Hobbiton) cost more. |
| Miscellaneous | $5β$10 (snacks, SIM card) | $15β$30 (souvenirs) | Consider prepaid SIM for affordable data. |
2. Tips for Saving Money While Staying in Auckland
There are plenty of things you can do for free, or you can do while staying in a low-budget.Β
- When buying food, always visit the Pak N Save, instead of the Woolworths.
- When using public transport, buy a HOP card to move around.Β
- As an alternative to cheap accommodation, you can get it for free by doing Couchsurfing.
- If you own a campervan, take advantage of freedom camping spots, but your car will need to be self-contained for this purpose.
3. FREE Activities & Things To Do in Auckland
There are plenty of things to do in Auckland city and surroundings, here is a list with 10 things you can do if staying for a week (more or less) in Auckland:
- Walk up Mount Eden β Enjoy the best views of the city from this volcanic crater.
- Relax at Mission Bay β Chill on the beach and take a walk along the waterfront.
- Explore Auckland Domain β Visit this huge park with gardens, trails, and open spaces.
- Visit Auckland Art Gallery β See amazing art (free for New Zealand residents).
- Hike the WaitΔkere Ranges β Discover waterfalls and native forests on these scenic trails.
- Stroll the Viaduct Harbour β Walk by the water and watch boats in this lively area.
- Check out One Tree Hill β Explore Cornwall Park and see the iconic hilltop monument.
- Visit Devonport β Wander through this cute seaside village and explore historic tunnels.
- Walk the Te AtatΕ« Peninsula β Enjoy coastal views and peaceful nature trails.
- See Kitekite Falls β Take a short walk to these beautiful waterfalls.
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π If you want to find out more activities, here is a more extended guide: Free Activities for Backpackers in New Zealand
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3. Backpacker Accommodation in Auckland (Where to Stay)
The most popular backpacker hostels in Auckland are the following, but it is recommended to check reviews first.Β
- Haka Lodge Auckland β Modern and clean hostel with dorms and private rooms. Great for social travelers.
- LyLo Auckland β Stylish, pod-style accommodation with a shared kitchen and common spaces.
- YHA Auckland City β Popular with backpackers, offering comfy dorms, a big kitchen, and great city views.
- Choice Backpackers β Affordable hostel with a social vibe, located close to Queen Street.
β Consider using platforms such as Booking.com or HostelWorld to get discounts and special deals.Β
4. Packing Essentials Before Your Arrival
Hereβs a simple guide to help you pack smart before you arrive in New Zealand:
π Important Documents
- Passport β Make sure itβs valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure.
- Visa β Check if you need a visitor visa or your current Working Holiday Visa is confirmed.
- Flight Details β Keep digital and printed copies of your tickets.
- Travel Insurance β Essential for medical emergencies, lost items, or trip changes.
π Clothing (For All Seasons)
- Layered Clothes β Weather can change quickly, so pack light layers.
- Rain Jacket β A must for unpredictable rain, especially in winter or on hikes.
- Warm Fleece β Perfect for chilly mornings and evenings.
- Comfortable Shoes β Bring sturdy shoes for hiking and casual sneakers for daily use.
- Swimwear β For beaches, hot springs, and outdoor adventures.
- Sun Hat & Sunglasses β Essential for sun protection, especially in summer.
π Travel Gear
- Backpack β A 40-60L backpack works well for long trips.
- Daypack β Useful for day hikes and city exploring.
- Reusable Water Bottle β Tap water is safe to drink in most areas.
- Microfiber Towel β Lightweight and quick-drying for hostels or the beach.
π οΈ Practical Items
- Power Adapter β New Zealand uses Type I plugs (230V, 50Hz).
- Toiletries β Bring travel-sized essentials; you can restock locally.
- First Aid Kit β Include basic items like plasters, pain relief, and motion sickness tablets.
- Laundry Bag β Helpful for keeping dirty clothes separate.
π± Tech Essentials
- Unlocked Phone β For using a local SIM card (recommended for cheap data).
- Portable Charger β Handy for long bus rides and remote areas.
- Headlamp β Useful for camping or hostel dorms at night.
ποΈ Outdoor & Adventure Items
- Sleeping Bag (Optional) β Useful if you plan to camp or stay in budget hostels.
- Insect Repellent β Essential for sandflies in some regions.
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+) β New Zealandβs sun is strong due to low ozone.
π° Money & Banking
- Debit/Credit Card β Ensure it works internationally with low fees.
- Cash (NZD) β Helpful for smaller towns and markets.
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π Super important to have a Wise account for paying everywhere with NO fees, and if buying a car to make instant transfers, so you won’t get stuck in Auckland for a week waiting for money to arrive!
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π³ If you don’t have a Wise account yet, you can open one by using the following button, you’ll get the first transfer for FREE.
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Here are some day trips where you don’t have to travel more than 2 hours, so easily you can leave in the morning and return in the evening.
ποΈ 1. Waiheke Island β Wine, Beaches & Scenic Views
- Travel Time: 40-minute ferry ride.
- What to Do? Enjoy wine tasting at local wineries, relax on beautiful beaches, and explore coastal walks with amazing views.
β Tip: Take the Hop-On Hop-Off bus to easily visit wineries and beaches.
π 2. Rangitoto Island
- Travel Time: 25-minute ferry ride.
- What to Do? Hike to the summit for incredible views, explore lava caves, and enjoy the peaceful island atmosphere.
β Tip: Bring food and waterβthere are no shops on the island.
π³ 3. WaitΔkere Ranges & Piha Beach
- Travel Time: 45-minute drive.
- What to Do? Hike to waterfalls, visit the iconic Piha Beach, and swim at Karekare Falls or watch surfers tackle the waves.
β Tip: Check for track closures before you goβsome areas are closed for conservation.
π 4. Goat Island
- Travel Time: 1.5-hour drive north.
- What to Do? Snorkel in a marine reserve, take a glass-bottom boat tour, and enjoy seafood in the nearby town of Leigh.
β Tip: Summer is best for snorkeling, with warm and clear water.
πΏ 5. TΔwharanui Regional Park
- Travel Time: 1.5-hour drive.
- What to Do? Relax at Anchor Bay, hike the scenic trails, and spot native birds while enjoying a peaceful beach picnic.
β Tip: There are no shops, so bring your own food and water.
ποΈ 6. Hunua Falls
- Travel Time: 1-hour drive southeast.
- What to Do? Admire the 30m Hunua Falls, hike through native bush, and enjoy a quiet picnic surrounded by nature.
β Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
ποΈ 7. Muriwai Beach
- Travel Time: 50-minute drive northwest.
- What to Do? Visit the gannet colony, walk along the black-sand beach, and watch the sunset from the cliffs with stunning views.
β Tip: Donβt forget your cameraβthe sunset views are amazing!
6. Connect With Other Backpackers (TCNZ Network)
Travel Cars New Zealand (TCNZ) is here to help you connect with other backpackers! The TCNZ Network is a community of travelers where you can meet new people, share tips, and find travel buddies during your adventure in New Zealand.
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β It’s FREE, counts with 16 Facebook Groups and over 350,000 members β Find the groups and join the ones you’ll find more useful!
π§βπ» FAQs about Backpacking in Auckland
Auckland is generally a safe city for backpackers. Like any big city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. Stick to well-lit areas at night and avoid risky neighborhoods.
. Popular places to look for work include hostels, cafes, restaurants, and farms. Websites like Seek and Backpacker Board list job openings, and many hostels have job boards or staff positions.
Auckland has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and pubs. The Viaduct Harbour area and Ponsonby are popular for their bars and nightlife.
Yes! There are a number of campsites around Auckland where you can park a campervan or pitch a tent. Some popular camping spots include the Takapuna Beach Holiday Park and the Auckland Domain.
