A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) vs. Auckland for Hiking, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland?

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Auckland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a spectacular, breathtaking, and other-worldly national park. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) travel costs.

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. See Auckland travel costs.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Auckland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Uluru
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options


Is there more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Auckland than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Auckland is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is well known for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Auckland is well known for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. Also, Auckland is famous for the Sky Tower.

How is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) different from Auckland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Auckland and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

Auckland is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Auckland specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). The Cultural Center offers information on the local Anangu culture. Also make sure you visit Field of Light, which is an art installation that is impressive. Wintjiri Arts and Museum is another local spot that is worth visiting.


Is the Food Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

Dining out at restaurants in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Auckland can be an enjoyable experience.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland Better for Nightlife?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

Auckland is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Auckland has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland Better for Resorts?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Auckland is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). While there is nowhere to stay inside the park, just outside there are many resorts and hotels. Many of the options in the area are run by one or two companies. There are also campgrounds nearby.

Auckland is not a resort destination.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland Better for Beaches?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

Auckland is a very popular place for the beach. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a beach destination.

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.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a beach destination.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland Better for Hiking?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking. There are countless walks in the area that pass by stunning viewpoints and surreal rock formations. You can feel the natural beauty and the spirituality of the park as you soak up the other-worldly landscape. Out of respect for the people and nature, always stay on marked trails.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

Auckland is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Auckland is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) to go shopping. You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland More Beautiful?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's dramatic beauty and spiritual setting make this an iconic destination. It's particularly striking at sunrise and sunset.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland Better for Families?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will benefit from learning about the local Anangu culture. You can visit the Cultural Center or take an informative guided tour of the area. A visit to the Field of Lights is sure to impress as well. Other family-friendly activities include camel rides, beautiful hikes, helicopter rides and reptile shows.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland Better for Couples?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has plenty to offer. The natural and spiritual beauty of this sight make it a truly romantic destination. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. There are also romantic resorts, adventure-filled activities, and unique dining opportunities that will make this an amazing honeymoon or anniversary trip.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Auckland are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many backpackers choose to stay at a hostel or campground near the sight. There are also some cheaper tour options that cater to the backpacker crowd.

Auckland is a very popular national park 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland Better for Students?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

Auckland is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

Auckland is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). There's no public transit or taxis in the area, but there is a hop-on hop-off bus as well as private bus tours and rental cars that you can arrange.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Auckland

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.

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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting? and Is Auckland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auckland or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

How long in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Auckland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than in Auckland. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 2-3 days is enough time in Auckland.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Auckland than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Auckland.


  • How many days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4 
    Auckland 2-3

One day in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland?

The beautiful national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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.

Auckland is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A weekend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Auckland is a adrenaline-filled big city where you can fill many days. It offers something for everyone. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the big city destination of Auckland. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 national park offers something for everyone.

Auckland is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in Australia, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Auckland or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

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

  • Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Prices
    Australia Prices
    Auckland Prices
    New Zealand Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $186
    Auckland $170

The average daily cost (per person) in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $186, while the average daily cost in Auckland is $170. 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Auckland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
    Auckland $99
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
    Auckland $198
Compare Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Auckland

Looking for a hotel in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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 Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)


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: Auckland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75
    Auckland $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Also for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) to Alice Springs Coach Transfer: $171

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Auckland

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


  • Bus from Airport
    $9.47
  • Airport Shuttle
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Auckland

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

  • [PRIVATE] Airport Transfer from/to Auckland Airport: $108
  • VIP / Premium Airport Transfers: $84
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service Auckland HTL-APT (AKL): $38
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service Auckland APT-HTL (AKL): $38
  • Rotorua to Auckland - Afternoon Transfer with Waitomo Caves: $188
  • Private Transfer From Cruise Ships To Auckland Airport : $120
  • Private Transfer From Auckland City To Auckland Airport Oaks: $72
  • Private Transfer From Auckland CBD Hotels To Cruise Ship: $96
  • Private Transfer From Auckland Airport To Thames: $201
  • Private Transfer From Auckland Airport To North Shore Auckland : $120
  • Private Transfer From Auckland Airport To Hibiscus Coast: $120
  • Private Transfer From Auckland Airport To Cambridge : $180

Is it cheaper to fly into Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Auckland?

Prices for flights to both Auckland and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $81
    Auckland $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Base and Sunset Half-Day Trip with Opt Outback BBQ Dinner: $134
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $197
  • Uluru Experience with BBQ Dinner: $219
  • Mt Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock Resort inc Dinner: $258

Typical Food Prices in Auckland

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


  • Breakfast
    $4.73

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: $94
  • Auckland Harbour Sailboat Cruise Including Three Course Dinner: $102
  • Flavours of the City Walking Food Tour: $102
  • Māori Evening Dinner and Private Show Experience: $524
  • From Kiwi Bird Encounter & 3-Course Dinner Tour: $556

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Auckland $27

Tours and Activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience: $261
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $117
  • Alice Springs Highlights Tour : $120
  • Best of Alice Springs Full Day Tour: $178
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $160
  • Palm Valley 4WD Tour from Alice Springs: $174
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $73
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $73
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $70
  • Uluru Audio Tour App: $13
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $160

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)
    $119

Tours and Activities in Auckland

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

  • Auckland Best Top 5 Spots Half day Tour : $96
  • Cathedral Cove & Hot water beach -Full Day Tour: PRIVATE TOUR : $270
  • Hobbiton Lord Of Rings Movie Set tour Private Driver : $198
  • Hobbiton Movie Set Small Tour from Auckland: $249
  • 24 day Greatest Of All Tours Small Group Tour: $3,484
  • 4 hours Auckland Friday Night Tour : $78
  • 6 Hours Sightseeing Tour in Auckland: $174
  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Auckland's Hidden Stories: $12
  • AUCKLAND CITY Full Day Tour with War Memorial Museum and Mt Eden: $155
  • Half-Day CITY HIGHLIGHTS TOUR - Mt.Eden, Tamaki Dr: $87
  • Afternoon Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour from Auckland: $117
  • America’s Cup 2-Hour Sailing Experience Waitemata Harbour: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    Auckland $13

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 Island Wine Tour & Local Wine Tasting: $111
  • Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Auckland with 3-Course Vineyard Lunch: $119
  • Waiheke Island: Wine Tour + Lunch at Award Winning Venue: $146
  • Waiheke Island: The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour: $161
  • Double Decker City Tour with Wine Tastings & Food: $163
  • Kumeu Wine Tour: $165
  • From Small Group Kumeu Wine Tour with Lunch: $176
  • Small-Group Kumeu Wine Country Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch: $180
  • Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour with Platter Lunch: $184
  • City Tour with Wine Tasting and Black Sand Beach: $205
  • Shore Excursion from Auckland - Private Tour & Wine Tasting: $281
  • Waiheke Island Scenic Wine Tour: $305


When comparing the travel costs between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Auckland, we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 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. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive? and Is Auckland Expensive?.