Auckland Explorer Bus (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Auckland Explorer Bus?
What makes it 76% Kids-Friendly: Child tickets, money-saving family pass, and kid-centric stops like Auckland Zoo and MOTAT hold 5-12s’ attention. Lack of onboard toilets or entertainment screens demands extra planning by parents.
Positives:
- Multiple Hop-on Stops: Stops at 14 attractions let families explore at their own pace.
- Child-Friendly Seating: Top deck benches give kids clear views; infants travel free on laps.
Challenges:
- No On-Board Toilets: Plan toilet breaks at stops; many attractions have public facilities.
- Weather Exposure: Upper deck is open to sun and rain; carry raincoats and sun protection.
What is Auckland Explorer Bus?
- A sightseeing bus network that operates open-top double-decker coaches on two color-coded circular routes linking urban, coastal and park precincts
- A scheduled transport service connecting 14 major landmarks such as Mount Eden, Auckland Zoo and waterfront districts with live driver commentary
- A hop-on, hop-off system providing regular departures from central city stops and panoramic upper-deck seating
What is so special about Auckland Explorer Bus for with kids?
- Hop-on hop-off bus covers 14 family-friendly stops across the city.
- Kids love SEA LIFE tunnels, the zoo, Sky Tower glass floor and volcano run-around.
- Family pass includes 2 adults + 2 children; under-5s travel free on laps.
- Online combo passes save up to 20% on top attractions.
- Open-top deck offers 360° city and harbour views that thrill kids.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 days
Why 1-2 days visit duration is ideal for with kids: A one-day pass covers key stops; two days let kids explore at a relaxed pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Auckland Explorer Bus
SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton's:
Walk through underwater tunnels to see sharks, rays and penguins up close.
Tip: Buy the bus-pass + aquarium add-on online to save up to 20% on entry.
Auckland Zoo:
See native kiwi, tuatara and exotic animals in themed habitats.
Tip: Catch the daily keeper talks—check the schedule at the entrance for times.
Sky Tower:
Feel the thrill on the glass floor at 220 m with sweeping city views.
Tip: Book your Sky Tower add-on with your bus pass for a discount and visit at sunset for colorful skies.
Mount Eden (Maungawhau):
Climb the volcanic cone for 360° views of city and harbour.
Tip: Use the paved path from the bus stop; let kids run around the crater rim.
Bastion Point:
Let the kids play on the grassy headland and enjoy open harbour views.
Tip: Pack snacks for a picnic—there are limited shops nearby.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Auckland Explorer Bus
- Buy Online Combo: Purchase bus pass + attraction add-ons online to save up to 20%.
- Start Early: Catch the first morning bus to avoid crowds at popular stops.
- Plan Your Route: Map key attractions for kids to minimize travel time between stops.
Reviews of Auckland Explorer Bus
David Adair
I can’t speak more highly of this hop on hop of bus tour of Auckland. The commentary on the bus was very informative. The bus goes to all the places that you should see. And yes you just hop off and when the next in comes hop back on. All the staff I deal with were excellent.
Neil “Neilb”
Only the red route was available in April which had 8 stops. The buses were easy to identify but the timetable was not reliable.the commentary was a little limited . The route took us to places we had not explored
Shosanna Rayss
Wifi mostly wasn’t working. The explanations weren’t always timed correctly, but I really liked the staff. They were all really nice, friendly and helpful! Still a good way to get around the city and get to know everything a little. But, there’s room for improvement.
Gator Tex
The buses are nice enough. The tour commentary is prerecorded and contrived. I liked the tour well enough but thought it's over priced.
Lynne Thomson
Great day with the easy to use hop on hop off system. We have used this in other countries around the world and have thoroughly enjoyed it in Auckland too. Totally recommend for an easy and safe way to see the city.
When is the best time to visit Auckland Explorer Bus (Auckland, New Zealand)?
In summer (Dec–Feb), bring water, sun hats and start early. In winter (Jun–Aug), carry a raincoat for sudden showers. Spring and autumn offer mild weather—ideal for outdoor stops like Mt Eden and Bastion Point.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 24-hour family bus pass | NZD 190 |
| SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s family add-on | NZD 100 |
| Auckland Zoo family entry | NZD 90 |
| Sky Tower family add-on | NZD 120 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 500 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Auckland Explorer Bus
Address: Stop 1/23 Customs Street East, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
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About Auckland Explorer Bus
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+64 800 439 756Explore Popular Things to Do
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