A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hong Kong vs. Auckland for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Hong Kong or Auckland?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or Auckland, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a glamorous, diverse , and compact city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Auckland

Auckland is a adrenaline-filled, thrill-seeking, and cosmopolitan city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Hong Kong and Auckland: 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 public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
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
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Hong Kong or Auckland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hong Kong than Auckland. Hong Kong is bigger than Auckland, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hong Kong is well known for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. Also, Hong Kong is famous for Victoria Peak. Auckland is well known for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment.

How is Hong Kong different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or Auckland?

Hong Kong
Auckland

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Hong Kong and Auckland.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hong Kong can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Auckland. 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.


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

Hong Kong
Auckland

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Hong Kong has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

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.

Is Hong Kong or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Hong Kong
Auckland

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Hong Kong and Auckland.

Hong Kong has a large number of nightlife venues. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

Auckland is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Hong Kong or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong
Auckland

Both Hong Kong and Auckland have excellent beaches worth visiting.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Hong Kong. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

The beaches at Auckland attract visitors from all over. 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.


Is Hong Kong or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong
Auckland

Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

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 Hong Kong or Auckland?

Hong Kong
Auckland

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Hong Kong draws large crowds to its stores. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

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.

Is Hong Kong or Auckland Better for Families?

Hong Kong
Auckland

Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong is one of the most popular family destinations. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

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 Hong Kong or Auckland Better for Couples?

Hong Kong
Auckland

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Hong Kong has plenty to offer. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Hong Kong or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hong Kong
Auckland

Auckland is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Auckland. 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.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

Is Hong Kong or Auckland Better for Students?

Hong Kong
Auckland

Auckland is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Auckland is a great city to visit as a student. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Hong Kong is not popular with students.


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

Hong Kong
Auckland

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Hong Kong has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

You'll find some public transit in Auckland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

Is Hong Kong or Auckland a more walkable city?

Hong Kong
Auckland

Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

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 Hong Kong Worth Visiting? and Is Auckland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hong Kong and Auckland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hong Kong than in Auckland. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Hong Kong, and 2-3 days is enough time in Auckland.

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

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


  • How many days in Hong Kong or Auckland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hong Kong 3-7 
    Auckland 2-3

One day in Hong Kong or Auckland?

Hong Kong is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Auckland. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Hong Kong or Auckland?

Hong Kong is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the thrill-seeking big city of Auckland. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or Auckland?

Hong Kong is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hong Kong, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the thrill-seeking city of Auckland. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Hong Kong or Auckland?

Hong Kong is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hong Kong has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Auckland is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Auckland or Hong Kong?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hong Kong is $160, while the average daily cost in Auckland is $141. 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 Hong Kong and Auckland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hong Kong $75
    Auckland $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hong Kong $150
    Auckland $178
Compare Hotels in Hong Kong and Auckland

Looking for a hotel in Hong Kong or Auckland? 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 Hong Kong


Hotels in Auckland


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: Hong Kong Hotel Prices and Auckland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hong Kong $8.73
    Auckland $16
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hong Kong

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


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.82
  • Local Bus
    $2.82
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $15

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Auckland

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


  • Bus from Airport
    $9.62
  • Airport Shuttle
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Auckland

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

  • Private Transfers to and from Auckland Airport: $74
  • Private Transfer from Auckland city to Bay Of Islands Cruise Port: $115
  • Private Transfer from Auckland Port to Auckland Airport (AKL): $55
  • Private Transfer from Auckland Cruise Port to Auckland city: $39
  • Private Transfer from Auckland City to Auckland Cruise Port: $39
  • Private Transfer from Auckland Airport (AKL) to Tauranga Port: $146
  • Private Transfer from Auckland Airport (AKL) to Auckland Port: $55
  • Private Transfer North Shore or Henderson to Auckland Airport AKL by Luxury Van: $112
  • Private Transfer North Shore or Henderson to Auckland Airport AKL by Luxury Car: $112
  • Private Transfer From Cruise Ships To Auckland Airport : $121
  • Private Transfer From Auckland Domestic Airport To Auckland City : $89
  • Private Transfer From Auckland CBD Hotels To Cruise Ship: $74

Is it cheaper to fly into Hong Kong or Auckland?

Prices for flights to both Auckland and Hong Kong 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
    Hong Kong $33
    Auckland $27
Typical Food Prices in Hong Kong

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


  • Dinner for 2
    $12

Typical Food Prices in Auckland

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


  • Breakfast
    $4.81

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Auckland

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

  • Auckland Harbour 3-Course Dinner Cruise with Welcome Drink: $90
  • Auckland Harbour Sailboat Cruise Including Three Course Dinner: $90
  • Flavours of the City Walking Food Tour: $105

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hong Kong $95
    Auckland $28
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hong Kong

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


  • Peak Tram
    $7.68
  • Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
    $24

Tours and Activities in Hong Kong

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

  • Ma On Shan Climbing Adventure: $115
  • Plover Cove Bicycling and Hiking Adventure: $110

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)
    $33
  • Waiheke Island Tour (for 2)
    $121

Tours and Activities in Auckland

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

  • 4 Hour Auckland Premium All inclusive Tour For 4 People: $215
  • “City to Surf” - private tour with German tour guide: $266
  • "City of Sails" highlights - private tour with German tour guide: $180
  • 2-Hour Stand-Up Paddle Boarding Tour to Lucas Creek Waterfall: $66
  • 3.5 hour Auckland Volcano Tour in our Electric Van: $221
  • 4 Hours Private Tour in Auckland : $245
  • 6 Hours Sightseeing Tour in Auckland: $127
  • Afternoon Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour from Auckland: $113
  • All Auckland City Hotels to Cruise Ship / Port: $48
  • All Blacks Experience: Interactive Guided Tour : $39
  • America’s Cup 2-Hour Sailing Experience Waitemata Harbour: $114
  • Auckland Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $66

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hong Kong $21
    Auckland $14

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: $93
  • Muriwai Scenic Wine Tour from Auckland: $107
  • Waiheke Island: The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour: $132
  • Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour with Platter Lunch: $150
  • Waiheke Island: Tour with Wine Tastings and Restaurant Lunch: $150
  • From Waiheke Island Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch: $153
  • Kumeu Wine Tour: $169
  • From Small Group Kumeu Wine Tour with Lunch: $171
  • Small-Group Kumeu Wine Country Tour Includes Wine Tastings & Lunch: $172
  • Piha Waitakere Rainforest Wine Tour from Auckland: $178
  • Auckland Coastal Experience - Small Group City & Beach Tour Incl. Wine Tasting: $199
  • Auckland City Tour & Kumeu Wine Country Includes Wine Tastings & Lunch : $224


When comparing the travel costs between Hong Kong and Auckland, we can see that Hong Kong is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Hong Kong is in Asia and Auckland is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or Auckland?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Auckland. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong and Auckland, 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.