A Travel Price Comparison for New Zealand Auckland vs. Tauranga for Families, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Auckland or Tauranga?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Tauranga can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a adventurous, adrenaline-filled, and thrill-seeking city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Auckland travel costs.

Tauranga

Tauranga is a relaxing, nature-filled, and coastal town. The beauty of Tauranga is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Tauranga travel costs.

Auckland and Tauranga: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Auckland or Tauranga?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Auckland than Tauranga, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Auckland is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Tauranga is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Auckland is popular for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also home to the Sky Tower. Tauranga is popular for its sandy beaches and beautiful walking trails.

How is Auckland different from Tauranga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Tauranga and Auckland. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Auckland or Tauranga?

Auckland
Tauranga

Auckland is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Auckland offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Tauranga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic buildings in town like the Elms Mission Station which dates back to 1847.


Is the Food Better in Auckland or Tauranga? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Auckland
Tauranga

Auckland is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Tauranga. You'll find a great mix of restaurants in the town's downtown area. There are international flavors as well as seafood and other local favorites.

Is Auckland or Tauranga Better for Nightlife?

Auckland
Tauranga

Auckland is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Auckland offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Tauranga. The city is known for its laid back bar scene. There are venues with casual live music as well as pubs where locals and tourists intermingle.

Is Auckland or Tauranga Better for Beaches?

Auckland
Tauranga

Auckland and Tauranga are great choices for a beach vacation.

Auckland is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Tauranga. Families and travelers head here for the sandy beaches and water activities. Surfing, kayaking, and fishing are all popular in the area. Some of the most popular beaches include Mount Maunganui Beach, Waihī Beach, and Anzac Bay.


Is Auckland or Tauranga Better for Hiking?

Auckland
Tauranga

Tauranga is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Tauranga. The Bay of Plenty is filled with hiking trails that run along the coast or head inland through the mountains. There are forest and bush walks that range in length and skill level and there really is something for everyone.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Tauranga?

Auckland
Tauranga

Auckland is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Tauranga. You'll find all of the standard shopping malls, retail outlets, and clothing boutiques around town.

Is Auckland or Tauranga More Beautiful?

Auckland
Tauranga

Tauranga is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Tauranga is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. A mix of beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and other natural environments make this a beautiful destination for travelers.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Auckland or Tauranga Better for Families?

Auckland
Tauranga

Tauranga is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Tauranga is one of the most popular family destinations. Check out the ropes courses at Adrenalin Forest or play in the water at Waimarino Adventure Park. There are also many different walking areas like McLaren Falls Park and Kaiate Falls. Kids will love hanging out at the beach around Mount Maunganui or Papamoa Beach. This is an affordable and kid-family destination for locals and international tourists alike.

Auckland is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Is Auckland or Tauranga Better for Couples?

Auckland
Tauranga

Both Auckland and Tauranga are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Auckland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Couples visit Tauranga frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic destination with great beaches and beautiful waterfalls. You can enjoy a picnic in the park or dine at one of the local restaurants. Kayaking is also a popular activity in the area.

Is Auckland or Tauranga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auckland
Tauranga

Tauranga is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Tauranga is extremely popular for backpackers. This is one of the more affordable destinations in New Zealand. There are also a number of backpacker-friendly jobs that make it a great place to base yourself.

Auckland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.


Is Auckland or Tauranga Better for Students?

Auckland
Tauranga

Auckland is a well-known place for students. However, Tauranga is not popular with students.

Auckland is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Tauranga is not popular with students.

Is Auckland or Tauranga Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Auckland
Tauranga

Visitors will find good public transit in both Auckland and Tauranga.

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

You'll find some public transit in Tauranga, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, trains, and ferries in the area.

Is Auckland or Tauranga a more walkable city?

Auckland
Tauranga

Tauranga is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Tauranga is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walking and cycling paths in the area, but you really need a car to explore the area in depth.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.


For even more information, also check out Is Auckland Worth Visiting? and Is Tauranga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tauranga or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Tauranga?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Auckland and Tauranga. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Tauranga than Auckland. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Tauranga, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Auckland than Tauranga. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Auckland that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tauranga than Auckland if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Tauranga.


  • How many days in Auckland or Tauranga? Ideal Length of Stay
    Auckland 2-3 
    Tauranga 2-3

One day in Auckland or Tauranga?

Auckland is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The beautiful town of Tauranga offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Auckland or Tauranga?

Auckland is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Auckland, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Tauranga is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tauranga, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Auckland or Tauranga?

Auckland is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Tauranga is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Auckland or Tauranga?

Auckland is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Tauranga is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, The Best 10-Day Tours in New Zealand, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Tauranga or Auckland?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Auckland is $151, while the average daily cost in Tauranga is $113. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Auckland and Tauranga in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Auckland $83
    Tauranga $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Auckland $166
    Tauranga $142
Compare Hotels in Auckland and Tauranga

Looking for a hotel in Auckland or Tauranga? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Auckland


Hotels in Tauranga


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Auckland Hotel Prices and Tauranga Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Auckland $15
    Tauranga $6.45
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Auckland

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Auckland:


  • Bus from Airport
    $9.05
  • Airport Shuttle
    $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Auckland

Also for Auckland, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Transfer: Auckland Central City Centre to Auckland Airport: $24
  • Private 1-Way Transfer to/from Airport: $25
  • Auckland:City Hotel Transfers to/from Cruise Ship in Minivan: $25
  • [Stevong] 24 HRs Auckland Airport Transfer (Hotel <-> Airport): $35
  • Airport Private Transfer: $42
  • Private Transfer From Auckland Airport Oaks To Auckland City: $55
  • Auckland Airport Private Transfers in a Luxury Minibus: $55
  • Private Transfer From Auckland City To Auckland Airport Oaks: $55
  • Auckland Airport To Auckland City Premium Transfer: $57
  • Auckland:Private 1 way Airport transfer to/from CBD Minivan: $57
  • Auckland City To Auckland Airport Premium Transfer: $57
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service Auckland APT-HTL (AKL): $58

Is it cheaper to fly into Auckland or Tauranga?

Prices for flights to both Tauranga and Auckland change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Auckland $44
    Tauranga $35
Typical Food Prices in Auckland

For Auckland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Breakfast
    $4.52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Auckland

For Auckland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Harbour Sailing Cruise with 3-Course Dinner: $91
  • Auckland Harbour Sailboat Cruise Including Three Course Dinner: $93
  • Flavours of the City Walking Food Tour: $99
  • Private Street Food Tour of Auckland with a Local Guide: $153
  • Māori Evening Dinner and Private Show Experience: $507

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Auckland $26
    Tauranga $9.84
Typical Entertainment Prices in Auckland

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Auckland's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Auckland Sky Tour (for 2)
    $31
  • Waiheke Island Tour (for 2)
    $114

Tours and Activities in Auckland

For Auckland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Maritime Museum Entry Ticket: $14
  • Explore Self Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Vibrosaun Therapy Experience: $17
  • Auckland War Memorial Museum Entry Ticket: $18
  • Skip the Line: Auckland Museum General Admission Entry Ticket: $19
  • Auckland Takapuna: Escape Game Adventure: $23
  • The Hunt for the Missing Monarch - An Auckland Adventure: $23
  • Gallery Highlights Tour and General Admission: $30
  • Auckland Sky Tower General Admission Ticket : $30
  • Scenic Harbour Sightseeing Cruise: $31
  • Auckland Harbour Cruise: $32
  • Return Ferry Ticket to Rangitoto Island: $33

Tours and Activities in Tauranga

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Tauranga are as follows:

  • 2hr Tauranga City Scenic History Tour: $32
  • 4hr Shore Excursion - History and Tasting Tour FREE Kiwifruit Tasting: $54
  • 6hr Hobbiton Movie Set Tour - Departs Tauranga: $136
  • 6hr Rotorua Geothermal Wonderland Tour - Departs Tauranga: $138
  • 7hr Waimangu Geothermal Valley & Lake Rotomahana Tour - Departs Tauranga: $142
  • Boutique tour , Mt Maunganui, NZ farm, Rotorua lakes/geothermal : $138
  • From Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise: $84
  • From Half-Day Swimming with Dolphins Tour: $85
  • Guided Māori History and Culture Tour to Rotorua and Tauranga: $127
  • Half Day Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise - Tauranga: $101
  • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Tauranga 5.5 to 6 hours CTT-17 - TRG-17: $185
  • Hobbiton movie set tour and a lot more beautiful NZ sights: $218

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Auckland $13
    Tauranga $9.74

Sample the Local Flavors in Auckland

Also in Auckland, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Waiheke Island: Scenic Wine Tour Tasting Wines on Waiheke: $105
  • Waiheke Island: The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour: $133
  • Waiheke Island: Scenic Wine Tour with Lunch: $142
  • Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour with Platter Lunch: $156
  • Kumeu Wine Tour: $160
  • From Small Group Kumeu Wine Tour with Lunch: $170
  • Small-Group Kumeu Wine Country Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch: $174
  • Piha Waitakere Rainforest Wine Tour from Auckland: $183
  • City Tour with Wine Tastings and Lunch: $187
  • Auckland City Scenic Tour with Wine Tasting + Lunch : $191
  • City Tour with Wine Tasting and Black Sand Beach: $198
  • Auckland Coastal Experience - Small Group City & Beach Tour Incl. Wine Tasting: $203


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Auckland and Tauranga, we can see that Auckland is more expensive. And not only is Tauranga much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tauranga would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tauranga and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Auckland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Auckland than you might in Tauranga.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Auckland Expensive? and Is Tauranga Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Auckland or Tauranga?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Tauranga. When comparing the sizes of Auckland and Tauranga, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.