Devonport Activities and Attractions You Can’t Miss
Just a 12-minute ferry trip or a 20-minute drive from Auckland city, Devonport feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Auckland city centre. This maritime village is rich in history which is evident in its charming buildings and historic landmarks found within just a short walk from the ferry terminal. The town has multiple sandy beaches, hills to climb with epic views, and stylish shops to browse. Devonport is the perfect Auckland day trip, so take a look at the things to do in Devonport below to start planning your itinerary.
Devonport is situated in the North Shore suburb of Auckland, which you can learn more about in our Auckland North Shore – Guide for Backpackers.
1. Walk to the Summit of Mt Victoria
Just a 10-20 minute uphill walk, the summit of Mt Victoria is a must-do so get some of the best views of Auckland city! You’ll see across the Auckland North Shore and the Hauraki Gulf, as well as epic views of the Auckland city skyline. There are also remnants of the Kawerau tribe fortifications.
Location: Kerr Street.
© NZPocketGuide.com2. Visit North Head
More more great views and a bit of history, visit North Head! Explore military tunnels, bunkers and gun emplacements and go on your own underground adventure. The walking tracks around North Head also capture amazing views of Auckland city and out to Rangitoto Island.
Location: Takarunga Road.
© Michal Klajban on Flickr3. Relax on Cheltenham Beach
Just a 1.6km (1-mile) walk from the Devonport ferry terminal and you will be on the long-stretching sandy Cheltenham Beach. It’s a great place to go for a swim, walk along the beach and do general beachy things!
Location: Cheltenham Road.
© NZPocketGuide.com4. Check Out Victoria Road
Victoria Road is where you’ll find most of Devonport’s cafes, craft shops and fashion stores so take some time to look around and see what you discover. Plus, it’s only a quick walk from the ferry terminal.
Location: Victoria Road.
© Sids1 on Flickr5. Take a Walk Around Cambria Reserve
The grassy and picturesque reserve is all that remains of a volcano that was quarried away between 1883 and 1985. Much of the volcanic scoria can be found around Devonport today. The reserve is a great place for a picnic or a walk.
Location: Church Road and Vauxhall Road.
© Heather Katsoulis on Flickr6. Watch Chocolate Being Made at Devonport Chocolates
Step into chocolate heaven at Devonport Chocolates where you can watch chocolatiers handmaking their sweet treats. There’s a wide range of chocolates and truffles for sale so treat yourself or pick up a gift.
Location: Wynyard Street
© NZPocketGuide.com7. Visit the Royal New Zealand Navy Museum
This free-entry museum is a great way to spend an hour in Devonport. Learn about New Zealand’s rich naval culture and history. You’ll get a great insight into the Royal New Zealand Navy, as the Devonport has its own Naval Base which is home to all operational departments of the Royal New Zealand Navy
Location: King Edward Parade, Torpedo Bay.
© Royal New Zealand Navy on Flickr8. Catch the Devonport Craft & Fine Food Market
Held every second Sunday of the month, the Devonport Craft and Fine Food Market is a must-visit to pick up some unique items! Browse over 50 stalls of local crafts and vintage pieces, as well as food stalls where you will get to sample some exceptional treats.
Location: Wynyard Street.
© NZPocketGuide.com9. Catch a Movie at The Vic
Showing both mainstream and arthouse movies, The Vic is a boutique cinema experience where watching a movie is more than just watching a movie. Sit down with delicious ice cream or treat form the cafe in a comfortable small cinema setting. There are even movie and ferry combo deals available so keep that in mind if travelling by ferry.
Location: Victoria Road.
© Pexels10. Explore Devonport by Bike
Either bring your own on the ferry or hire a bike from the ferry terminal and start exploring some of the highlights mentioned above by bike! Even the trails on North Head and Mt Victoria are great for bikes so start exploring! For more bike trails in Devonport, head over to Mountain Biking in Auckland.
Location: Devonport.
© Tourism New ZealandMore Things to Do Near Devonport
