If you’re exploring life in New Zealand and want to check out a relaxing, local town, look no further than Devonport! Just across the bay from Auckland, this small town is the perfect day trip from the hustle and bustle of the big city. Filled with gorgeous views, tons of activities, and a rich history and culture, Devonport is an excellent place to spend the day. A simple ferry ride across the water will take you to the town in no time, and you can pick and choose from the myriad of activities Devonport has to offer. From enjoying the water on the beach or learning about the history of New Zealand to relaxing at high tea, here are the top ten things to do in Devonport, New Zealand.
1. Head to the beach
Looking to just relax and tan? Look no further than Cheltenham Beach! Take the scenic walk from the ferry to enjoy the beautiful views along the shoreline, tan on the soft sand beaches, and cool off in the ocean. There’s even a grassy area and playground to watch your children play or enjoy a nice picnic by the sea.
Cheltenham Beach
Address: Cheltenham Beach, 0624, New Zealand
Website: Cheltenham Beach
2. Head to a museum
Want to cool off from the heat and learn about the history of Devonport? Devonport’s Torpedo Bay Navy Museum is a perfect way to learn about the town’s naval and maritime history. You can even grab a guide and have an incredibly informative tour of the museum, either as a walk-in or by pre-booking!
Torpedo Bay Navy Museum
Address: 64 King Edward Parade, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Website: Torpedo Bay Navy Museum
3. Go on a hike
With Devonport’s lush environment, it’s no wonder a perfect day hiking around the town would be great for any active traveler. Regarded as an important site of New Zealand’s coastal defense system, especially against a feared attack of Russia, the North Head Historical Reserve Trail is a great way to spend a day. Pick from a myriad of trails and see the islands of the Hauraki Gulf and Rangitoto and the various types of defenses placed on North Head to protect Auckland.
North Head Historical Reserve Trail
Address: North Head Historic Reserve Trail, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Website: North Head Historical Reserve Trail
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4. Maritime fun
Being by the ocean means having so many water activities! Go for a swim, kayak, surf, fish, and explore in this seaside town. Check out Devonport Wharf for the perfect fishing spot. Devonport Wharf is also the drop-off/pick-up location for the ferry that goes directly to Auckland, so this is the perfect activity if you are looking to do something immediately once you arrive in Devonport, or a last activity before leaving. Either take a boat tour or just the ferry ride over!
Devonport Wharf
Address: 2 Queens Parade, Devonport, Auckland 0624, New Zealand
Website: Devonport Wharf
Fullers Ferries
Address: Pier 1 Ferry Terminal, 99 Quay Street, Auckland, New Zealand
Website: Fullers Ferries
5. Experience art!
Devonport has a rich culture of artists and creative pursuits! Stop by the Flagstaff Gallery and take in beautiful works of art and support a local artist and business. Or, listen to live folk music at the famous “Bunker” on Mt. Victoria. Monday nights only, the doors open at 7:30pm for an 8pm start!
Flagstaff Gallery
Address: 30 Victoria Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Website: Flagstaff Gallery
The Bunker
Address: The Bunker, Mt. Victoria, Devonport, New Zealand
Website: The Bunker
6. Play a round of golf
Waitemata Golf Club in Devonport is the perfect spot to work on your putting, driving and all the fun that golf has to offer in an incredible location, designed like a park with easy walking paths from hole to hole or golf cart and affordable prices for a round of 9 or 18 holes.
Waitemata Golf Club
Address: 15 Derby Street, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Website: Waitemata Golf Club
7. High tea
Spend a relaxing afternoon at The Peace and Plenty Inn for a traditional Victorian High Tea. Grab your hat and gloves and head to the restored Victorian style villa to have tea, small sandwiches and snacks. Booking in advance is recommended and tea is served on Saturdays and Sundays between 12:00pm to 4:00pm. A perfect afternoon to spend with family and friends.
High Tea at The Peace and Plenty Inn
Address: 6 Flagstaff Terrace, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Website: High Tea at The Peace and Plenty Inn
8. Shopping! Obviously!
Looking to lighten your wallet? Devonport’s shops are an excellent place to buy that souvenir or gift for a friend or family member. Or, make your way to a small gem of the town, Bookmark, where you can find second hand, rare and used books from over 20,000 volumes!
Bookmark Bookstore
Address: 15 Victoria Road, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Website: Bookmark
9. Take a stroll
Devonport has so many different trails and walks to choose from, whether you’re looking for a historical trail or a walk through the downtown area, this is a place where your walking shoes will be put to work! Check out the Devonport Waterfront Walk or the Devonport Military History Trail, both you can do on your own as you stroll through town.
Devonport Waterfront Walk
Address: Devonport, Auckland 0624, New Zealand
Website: Devonport Waterfront Walk
Devonport Military History Trail
Address: Devonport, Auckland 0624, New Zealand
Website: Devonport Military History Trail
10. Take a tour
One of the best ways to get a feel for a new place is by taking a tour. Whether it is by foot, boat, or even segway, choose from a myriad of Devonport’s options of tours to see and learn about this amazing town.
Magic Broomstick Segway Tours
Address: Shop 9, Devonport Ferry Terminal, Devonport, Auckland, New Zealand
Website: Magic Broomstick Segway Tours
Devonport Tours
Address: Devonport, Auckland 0624, New Zealand
Website: Devonport Tours
Become a "daytripper" in Devonport!
If you’re looking for a wonderful day-trip while visiting Auckland, New Zealand, look no further than Devonport. Grab a ferry in Auckland and head over to the small town in less than a half-hour, and spend time in this quaint, historic town. Pick from multiple options on how to spend your day: a relaxing day at the beach, walking through the historical grounds, or shopping in the downtown area; Devonport is the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of a large city, and enjoy the finer things in life!