The best photography spots in Auckland aren’t just found in the city, they’re scattered all the way from the Waitākere Ranges on the West Coast to Tāwharanui in the North.
Auckland cops a fair bit of flak. It’s often treated like a jet-lag recovery stop before the “real” New Zealand begins. But after years of calling this place home, I can confidently say that there is more than meets the eye.
So, if you’re looking to capture this city and everything it has to offer, or even if you’re looking to explore a bit more, here are 22 of the best photography spots in Auckland for outdoor lovers, sunset chases, and anyone who travels with a camera permanently strapped to their hand.
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ANAWHATA BEACH AND LOOKOUT
If you want golden hour without the Piha chaos Anawhata Beach and its lookout are great options.
Anawhata feels remote, wild, and is just the right amount of inconvenience. And by that, I mean that the gravel road keeps most people away, which means a lot less foot traffic.
From the cliff-top car park it’s a quick 15–20 minute descent to the beach. The black sand, rock formations, and tide pools make it a fun location to shoot, especially when the light gets low and everything turns warm and bit more dramatic.
If you don’t want to hike back up in the dark (valid), stop at the lookout on your way out. It’s an easy detour and one of the best elevated views in the Waitākeres.
More details, I have you covered in my full Anawhata guide.
TAKAPUNA BEACH
Takapuna is one of the most popular and iconic beaches on the North Shore of Auckland so as a minimum it needed to be included as one of the best photography spots in Auckland. You’ll find that it’s a hotspot for locals and visitors – for good reason. Rangitoto is out in front, making this an incredibly picturesque walk from the onset. There’s also plenty of green spaces for relaxing and sunbathing if the beach is a little too crowded on those summer days. Also, if you plan to visit with your family and you have young children, there is a playground to keep them occupied.
For the best time to visit to capture Takapuna Beach, I tend to enjoy the early mornings. Even though this is still a busy time with joggers and people getting in their morning exercise, your photos of the beach, Rangitoto and sunrise will be *chefs kiss*.
WHATIPŪ
Whatipū is another West Coast gem that feels remote and for Auckland, it kind of is. From the city, give yourself about an hour and 15 minutes to get there thanks to coastal roads and a few tight turns.
Once you’re at the car park, walk ten minutes through dunes and you’re suddenly standing in a massive black-sand basin framed by cliffs and crashing surf. This place is a playground as it’s a massive open space. I personally loved capturing the waves here at sunset. That golden light is just *chefs kiss*.
Want to take it further? Pair it with the Omanawanui Track for a great combo.
My full Whatipū guide has all the details if you want to plan more in depth.
MERCER BAY LOOP
Short on time but want impact? Mercer Bay Loop is one of my favourite sunset walks and is an absolute must-have for the best photography spots in Auckland. Even though you’ll often find it busy here, no matter what time of day, it’s for good reason. The full circuit takes around 30 minutes, and the various lookouts hits hard with views across Piha, Whatipū, and the endless Tasman Sea.
If you’re planning your visit, check out my full Mercer Bay Loop guide — I’ve included parking tips, and more of what you can expect.
KAREKARE BEACH
One of the beaches that you’ll be able to see from Mercer Bay Loop is Karekare. It’s another wild, West Coast beach, and best known thanks to The Piano. Similarly to other beaches on the West Coast, the dunes are a place to experiment, along with framing Paratahi Island in the background.
If you night shots are more what you’re interested in, there’s a DOC campsite close by so you can shoot stars without rushing home.
Want to know more? Everything you need to plan it is in my Karekare guide.
MOUNT EDEN
You can’t talk about the best photography spots in Auckland without Mount Eden. It’s central, it’s easy, and the payoff is massive. From the summit you get an uninterrupted 360° sweep: the city, the harbour, the islands and the ranges.
Both sunrise and sunset here are perfect for softer tones and to capture all those detail. The time after sunset is also great too, as you can see the city start to glow.
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PIHA
If Auckland had a poster child for photography, this would be it. Piha’s black dunes and Lion Rock give, in every angle. It’s rugged, but honestly, so calm.
The trick? Check the tides. Low tide gives you mirror-finish reflections. One of my favourite sunset shots ever came from here in winter when the sand was glossy and the sky went full wildfire.
I’ve kept it short here, but if you’re planning something similar, my full write-up on Piha will come in handy.
MOUNT VICTORIA
Devonport’s Mount Victoria is small but mighty, making it a must addition to the list of best photography spots in Auckland. Ten to fifteen minutes of uphill walking and suddenly you’ve got some of the best city-to-harbour views in Auckland.
Sunset is peak here. You’ll have views across Rangitoto, the city and Waitematā Harbour. I’d recommend bringing a picnic blanket and a bite to eat, take your time to shoot, nibble and just enjoy the views.
Curious to know more? I’ve covered all the details on Mount Victoria here.
KAREKARE FALLS
A short walk gets you to a 30 metre waterfall framed by moss and bush. It’s great for long exposures because there’s usually shade, meaning slower shutter speeds without blowing highlights. Although in saying that, I’d highly recommend visiting in the afternoon where there is a bit of light but it’s softer.
As you can guess, Karekare Beach is also very close so you can pair both together for a two-in-one shoot day.
MUSICK POINT
Musick Point is an underrated gem that had to be added to the list of best photography spots in Auckland. It’s a short walk to the viewpoints, the crowds are light, and the panoramic views include the Hauraki Gulf, looking out over the iconic Rangitoto Island, as well as Motuihe and Waiheke Islands. It does require a drive as it is located in East Auckland, but it’s worth it.
As this is a memorial the walk also leads you past a former radio transmission station used during WWII, adding a touch of history.
It’s perfect for sunrise, just don’t get locked in after dark as the gates do close.
More details are in my Musick Point guide.
MURIWAI
Muriwai has one of Auckland’s most iconic lookouts and beaches. The views stretch for 50km along the black sand coast, and also boasts a side of unique wildlife.
The Muriwai Scenic Lookout is the best place to park up and from there the viewing platforms are just a short walk and offer prime vantage points over the beach and cliffs. You’ll also spot the gannet colony here from August to March.
If you’re keen to touch the sand, take a 5-minute drive down Waitea Road to Jack Butt Lane.
OMANAWANUI TRACK
For a hike that doubles as a photography mission, Omanawanui is one of the best. There are a lot of stairs – over 2,400 but the views that you get at the summit and through native forestry makes it all worth it.
My recommendation would be to plan your arrival at the summit late afternoon, so you can avoid the crowds. It’s also much better lighting than midday so you’ll capture the harbour, dunes, and ridgelines in the perfect light. If you can, try make your way down for sunset at Whatipū.
If you’re wanting the full scoop, my Omanawanui guide has everything to know.
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TĀWHARANUI POINT
An hour north, Tāwharanui feels like the city’s summer holiday house. Open farmland meets turquoise coastline, and the North/South coastal trail loop gives you a full day of easy walking and constant ocean views.
It’s an ideal location if you’re also wanting to mix in a beach trip too. We did the walk early morning, followed by a tanning session afterward. This is one of the nicest locations you can find in the North, making it an obvious choice for one of the best photography spots in Auckland.
If you’d like to know more, I’ve unpacked everything about Tāwharanui here.
TE WAHA POINT
If solitude is high on your wishlist, Te Waha Point is one of the quieter spots with some of the best views. The trail is short but steep, and the lookout puts you high above Anawhata and Whites Beach – both absolute stunners.
Piha access has been inconsistent post the 2023 floods, so make sure to start from Anawhata Road. It’ll be an uphill slog on the way back, but I can say that it’s well worth it.
This section’s the highlight reel. If you’re keen for the full story on Te Waha Point, you’ll find it here.
MOUNT DONALD MCLEAN
Mount Donald McLean offers two viewpoints and a solid hike with forest, and wide-open panoramic views. It’s is a similar trail to Omanawanui (think many, many stairs) but is a lesser trodded trail. It also has a much better view of the city, but is a bit further away from Whatipū Beach.
If you don’t want to do the full trail (fair enough), there’s a shortcut car park that turns it into a ten-minute walk. It’s also the perfect spot to fly the drone, making it an easy choice for one of the best photography spots in Auckland. So, go for gold, just remember safety regulations.
If this sounds like a bit of you, I’ve got the full write up on Mount Donald McLean here.
AUCKLAND WATERFRONT
If you prefer a more urban aesthetic, the walk along Auckland’s waterfront is full of great beaches and really scenic views. This walk can extend all the way from the Silo Park to Achilles Point.
The pathways that stretch Tamaki Drive are the most popular as there is plenty of space for both cyclists, runners and walkers. You’ll find beaches, beautiful bays and great cafes along this walk, but as alluded to, it is very popular, especially during weekends.
I’d highly recommend starting at Achilles Point, sunrise here is incredible. Walk for as long as you like but make sure to stop in at Kohi Beach Eatery – their coffee and breakfast are delicious.
TE HENGA / BETHELLS BEACH
Think Piha but less crowded. Te Henga/Bethells Beach is rugged, raw, and is another incredible spot for sunset.
There are cave formations at the far left end of the beach along with great rock formations that can give you some elevation and texture to your images. Although, not really needed as this beach delivers, but still nice to have.
WAIHEKE ISLAND
This is an obvious addition to the list of best photography spots in Auckland. Forty minutes on the ferry from Auckland City and suddenly you’re in wine country. Waiheke is full of incredible vineyards, turquoise coloured waters, and walks. I’ve been here a few times, more for the wine than the photography. But as I have, spend a day here. However, I’d highly recommend more time. This will give you the chance to capture the best corners of this incredible island.
MANUKAU HEADS LIGHTHOUSE
The lighthouse at Manukau Heads sits above some incredible scenery and is worth the drive out of Auckland City to see. The view extends along the coastline, Manukau Harbour, all the way across to Whatipū Beach and the Waitākere Ranges.
If you’d like to time it right, visit the Manukau Heads Lighthouse in the afternoon, followed by a 15 minute drive to Hamiltons Gap, where you can watch the sunset.
BEVERIDGE TRACK
If you like a short walk in the Waitākere Ranges where there is easy parking and beautiful views, Beveridge Track is for you. I did this a part of a loop trail, joining Slip, Pipeline and Beveridge Track together. You’ll have views through native New Zealand bush alongside Lower Nihotupu Reservoir and the city in the distance. There’s also plenty of lookouts, and the lighting in the afternoon is stunning.
MAHURANGI REGIONAL PARK
Mahurangi is a great spot for those slower days where you just want to wander, find corners, and shoot without a strict plan. But that doesn’t mean that the views aren’t spectacular. You’ll have a lookout across Pukapuka Inlet, Mahurangi East, Moturekareka Island and Motupora Island.
I’ve only experienced this spot at sunrise. While I loved it, I’d like to spend a little more time exploring this gem.
KITEKITE FALLS
Kitekite is taller, louder, and a requires a bit more effort than Karekare but it’s also only a short, 30 minute walk. The trail will take you through regenerative bush before it opens to stacked cascades, swimming holes, and multiple viewing points.
It can be busy, especially in the summer, with people wanting to cool off but there is plenty of space to shoot. Or, as a last resort, Lightroom is great at removing background bandits.
SUMMARY
This city might not be the first place people think of when they pick up a camera, but as you’ve just seen, it delivers with some of the best photography spots in Auckland. From rugged West Coast cliffs to calm harbours, vineyards, waterfalls, and skyline views, this city gives you variety without driving half a day to find it.
Whether you’re planning a sunrise mission, a golden-hour wander, or a full-day photography adventure, these locations are a great starting point. Use them, revisit them, and let them surprise you — because Auckland looks different every season, tide, and weather pattern.
If this guide helps you discover somewhere new, let me know in the comments. I’d love to see what you capture!
And if you’re still exploring, dive into more of my Auckland and New Zealand travel guides for fresh ideas and inspiration.
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FAQs
Where to take photos in Auckland?
This guide lists 22 of the absolute best: Anawhata Beach, Whatipū, Piha, Karekare, Mercer Bay Loop, Muriwai, Bethells, Mount Eden, Mount Victoria, Musick Point, Omanawanui Track, Mount Donald McLean, Te Waha Point, Tāwharanui, Waiheke Island, Takapuna Beach, Manukau Heads Lighthouse, Mahurangi Regional Park, Eastern Waterfront, Beveridge Track, Karekare Falls, and Kitekite Falls. They cover West Coast wild beaches, volcanic lookouts, waterfalls, urban skyline views, and island vineyards.
Where to go to take nice photos in Auckland?
Start with the classics: Piha (Lion Rock + black sand reflections), Mount Eden (360° city panorama), Mount Victoria in Devonport (harbour + Rangitoto at sunset), and Mercer Bay Loop (dramatic clifftop views). For quieter alternatives: Anawhata, Te Waha Point, Musick Point, or Tāwharanui.
How do I find the perfect location for a photoshoot in Auckland?
- Decide your vibe: wild & dramatic → West Coast (Piha, Karekare, Whatipū, Bethells); city + harbour → Mount Eden, Mount Victoria, Eastern Waterfront; secluded & elevated → Te Waha Point, Omanawanui, Mount Donald McLean; island/wine aesthetic → Waiheke; waterfall + bush → Kitekite or Karekare Falls.
- Check golden-hour times (sunset is usually better light here).
- Use tide apps for the West Coast beaches – low tide = mirror reflections.
- Avoid weekends at popular spots (Piha, Mercer Bay, Muriwai).
What time of day is best for photoshoots in Auckland?
Golden hour (roughly one hour before sunset and first hour after sunrise) is king here. West Coast beaches and lookouts (Piha, Anawhata, Mercer Bay, Omanawanui, Muriwai, Bethells) are west-facing → sunset is spectacular. Mount Eden, Mount Victoria, Musick Point, and Takapuna are magic at both ends of the day. Blue hour right after sunset is perfect for city lights (Mount Eden, Eastern Waterfront).
Are these photography spots free to visit?
Yes – every single one is free (including parking). Waiheke only costs the ferry ticket (~NZ$50–60 return). Tāwharanui Regional Park is also free.
Do I need a car to visit these spots?
Most of the best ones (especially West Coast and lookouts) really do require a car because public transport is almost non-existent out there. The exceptions: Mount Eden (bus), Mount Victoria (ferry + short walk), Takapuna (bus), Eastern Waterfront (bus or e-scooter), and Waiheke (ferry). For everything else a car is pretty much essential.
Are drones allowed at these locations?
Yes at most (Mount Donald McLean, Omanawanui, Whatipū, Mercer Bay Loop are particularly good). Just follow standard NZ rules: stay under 120 m, no flying over people, no flying in restricted airspace (check Airshare app). Some DOC land has extra restrictions – always check on-site signs.
Which spots are best to avoid crowds?
Anawhata Beach & Lookout, Te Waha Point, Musick Point, Mount Donald McLean, Whatipū, Bethells, Manukau Heads, Mahurangi, and Beveridge Track. These consistently have the lightest foot traffic.
Best season for photography in Auckland?
Summer for long days + golden beaches, but busier. Autumn (March–May) softer light, fewer people, still warm. Winter dramatic skies, epic low-tide reflections, almost empty beaches. Spring lush greens after rain. Honestly, Auckland photographs well year-round – just avoid midday harsh light.
Any dangerous spots or safety tips?
West Coast beaches (Piha, Karekare, Bethells, Whatipū, Anawhata) have strong rips – never swim alone. Stick to tracks on cliff edges (Mercer Bay, Te Waha, Omanawanui). Take a head torch if shooting sunset and hiking back.
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A SNAPSHOT OF THE BEST PHOTOGRAPHY SPOTS IN AUCKLAND
For those just wanting a snapshot of 22 Best Photography Spots in Auckland, below is a quick summary:
Anawhata Beach & Lookout, Waitākere: wild black-sand beach, tide pools, secret clifftop lookout, golden-hour heaven
Whatipū, Waitākere: massive remote black-sand basin, epic dunes, sunset reflections
Mercer Bay Loop, near Piha: 30-min clifftop walk, insane views over Piha + Tasman Sea
Karekare Beach, Waitākere: The Piano beach, Paratahi Island, DOC campsite for Milky Way shots
Mount Eden: central 360° city + harbour volcano views, sunrise or blue-hour city lights
Piha Beach: iconic Lion Rock, black sand, low-tide mirror reflections, winter sunsets
Mount Victoria, Devonport: quick uphill, golden-hour skyline + Rangitoto, picnic vibes
Musick Point, East Auckland: quiet clifftop panoramas, WWII history, Hauraki Gulf islands
Muriwai Beach & Gannet Colony: 50 km black-sand views, clifftop platforms, wildlife Aug–Mar
Omanawanui Track, Waitākere: 2400+ stairs, summit views over Manukau Harbour & Whatipū
Te Waha Point, Waitākere: short steep trail, overlooks Whites + Anawhata beaches, crowd-free
Mount Donald McLean, Waitākere: ridgeline lookouts, drone-friendly, city + west coast views
Tāwharanui Regional Park: turquoise beaches + farmland loop, relaxed North Auckland escape
Te Henga / Bethells Beach: calmer Piha alternative, sea caves, golden-hour rock perches
Eastern Waterfront / Tāmaki Drive: urban beaches, skyline reflections, Achilles Point sunrise
Waiheke Island: ferry escape, vineyards, turquoise bays, golden beaches
Takapuna Beach, North Shore: Rangitoto backdrop, palm-fringed, morning light magic
Manukau Heads Lighthouse: dramatic harbour entrance, wild west coast, sunset pairing with Hamiltons Gap
Mahurangi Regional Park: calm inlets, islands, pōhutukawa-fringed bays, sunrise serenity
Beveridge Track, Waitākere: easy bush walk, reservoir + city glimpses, soft afternoon light
Karekare Falls: quick 30 m waterfall, mossy long-exposure spot, pair with the beach
Kitekite Falls: multi-tiered 40 m cascade, swimming holes, regenerative bush