Discover Auckland by Bus

Experience the best of Auckland at your own pace with the city’s flexible hop-on hop-off bus service. Whether you have a day or an entire weekend, these routes take you from the heart of the city out to essential attractions, all without the stress of navigating transport or parking. With frequent bus arrivals and clear audio commentary, you’ll leave no corner of Auckland unexplored.

Routes & Schedule

Red Inner Tour

Venture into Auckland’s cultural and historic centre aboard the Red route. Start your journey from Downtown Auckland and cruise past iconic spots with the convenience of strategic stops and an audio guide in English. Immerse yourself in New Zealand’s story at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, renowned for its Māori heritage collections and military exhibits. The Auckland Art Gallery offers exhibitions of indigenous and contemporary artworks. Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, the city’s largest, or wander the charming shops and cafés of Parnell Village on foot.

• First bus: 9am from stop #1 (Downtown Auckland)

• Last bus: 4pm from stop #1 (Downtown Auckland)

• Buses depart every 30 minutes

• Red route highlights: Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell Village, Bastion Point, SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium

Blue Outer Tour

The Blue route takes you further afield to Auckland’s relaxed western suburbs and vibrant attractions. Available from November to April, this tour features panoramic stops such as Mt Eden, an extinct volcanic crater with sweeping views of the city. Discover exotic wildlife at Auckland Zoo or step back in time at MOTAT (Museum of Transport and Technology). Sports fans can check out Eden Park and explore the lively Kingsland neighborhood.

• First bus: 9am from stop #1 (Downtown Auckland)

• Last bus: 4pm from stop #1 (Downtown Auckland)

• Buses depart every 30 minutes

• Blue route highlights: Wintergardens, Mt Eden/Maungawhau, Eden Park/Kingsland

For a detailed map of stops, boarding points and full timetable, see the official Explorer Bus Map.

How the Hop-On Hop-Off Works

Join the tour at any of the 14 designated stops across both routes and hop back on whenever you like for the duration of your pass. The buses come approximately every 30 minutes, ensuring minimal wait times and letting you maximise your sightseeing around Auckland’s best sites. Listen to commentary in English for insights and local stories as you travel.

Featured Attractions

• Sky Tower: Iconic city views and observation decks

• Auckland War Memorial Museum: History and Māori treasures in a grand setting

• SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium: Marine life close-ups and penguin encounters

• Auckland Art Gallery: Impressive collections ranging from Māori art to modern masterpieces

• Mt Eden: Views from Auckland’s highest natural point (Blue route, Nov–Apr)

Good to Know

• Routes cover the most celebrated local and cultural sites

• Buses are wheelchair accessible and suitable for families

• Carry small bags or backpacks, large luggage is not permitted onboard

• Audio commentary adds cultural insights to your visits

With Auckland known as the "City of Sails" and boasting more boats per capita than anywhere else in the world, your open-top bus ride is the perfect introduction to its portside character and diverse attractions.

Book your Explorer Bus: Auckland Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour tickets now!