The Auckland Harbour Bridge is the steel arch that links the city to the North Shore, and the Bridge Climb lets you walk up onto its structure with a guide for a view that most visitors only see from a ferry. The climb is run by AJ Hackett from its base at Westhaven Reserve in Herne Bay, and it takes about two hours from start to finish, including a briefing, kitting out and the walk itself. Groups are small, with a maximum of twelve climbers, and you wear the provided suit and safety gear, including warm and wet-weather layers. Because cameras, phones and binoculars are not allowed on the bridge, your guide takes the photographs and video, which are delivered to you afterwards, and lockers are provided for your belongings. The route follows the bridge’s upper walkways, so you look down on the harbour traffic, across to the Viaduct and the Sky Tower, and out towards the Hauraki Gulf. It is a walk rather than a technical climb, but there are heights, stairs and exposed sections, so moderate fitness is recommended.
How it works
You meet at the AJ Hackett base at 105 Curran Street, Westhaven Reserve, where parking is free for those who drive, or you can use the free pickup from the Sky Tower plaza at the corner of Victoria and Federal Streets, which runs at set times through the morning and early afternoon. Check the time slots when you book, because the pickup times are fixed. Flat, enclosed footwear is required, and everything else is supplied.
Who it suits
The minimum age is seven, with children aged fourteen and under accompanied by an adult, and there is a minimum height of 120 centimetres and a weight range of 35 to 150 kilograms. It is not recommended for anyone who is pregnant or has back or heart problems or another serious medical condition, and it is not wheelchair accessible. Spectators cannot go onto the bridge, so non-climbers in your party will need another plan for the time.
Making the most of it
Choose a clear day for the best views, and consider the climb as a first-day orientation, because it shows you how the isthmus, the harbour and the North Shore fit together. If you also want the adrenaline version, the same operator runs a bungy jump from the bridge, covered on its own page. After the climb, the Viaduct Harbour and the Maritime Museum are a short ride or a pleasant waterfront walk away. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start, which helps if the weather turns.
What to expect
The experience
A guided walk along the upper walkways of the Auckland Harbour Bridge in small groups of up to twelve, wearing supplied gear, with the guide taking photos and video.
Best time
A clear, calm day for the widest views; book a morning slot if you want to pair it with an afternoon on the waterfront.
How long
About two hours including the briefing and kitting out.
Tips
Wear flat enclosed shoes, leave phones and cameras in the lockers, check the age, height and weight limits before booking, and use the free Sky Tower pickup if you are not driving.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want a high, panoramic look at the harbour and city without a technical climb.
- Families
- Suitable for children from seven who meet the height and weight limits and are accompanied by an adult.
- Couples
- A memorable shared challenge with a photo and video package to keep.
- Pair with
- The Viaduct Harbour and the New Zealand Maritime Museum, or a sail on the Waitematā.
- Time needed
- Allow half a day including transfers.
Good questions
How long does the Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb take?+
About two hours from check-in to finish, including the briefing, kitting out and the guided walk on the bridge.
Can I take my own camera or phone on the climb?+
No. Cameras, phones and binoculars are not allowed on the bridge. Your guide takes photos and video, which are sent to you afterwards, and lockers are provided for your belongings.
What are the age and fitness requirements?+
The minimum age is seven, minimum height is 120 centimetres and the weight range is 35 to 150 kilograms. Moderate fitness is recommended, and it is not suitable for people who are pregnant or have back or heart problems.
Where does the Bridge Climb start?+
It starts at the AJ Hackett base at 105 Curran Street in Westhaven Reserve, Herne Bay, with free parking, or from the free pickup at the Sky Tower plaza at set times.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?+
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Check the current weather policy when you book, as operators may reschedule for safety.
