Charming seaside village across the harbor from the CBD with views of the city skyline and Rangitoto Island.

About Devonport & North Shore

Devonport is one of Auckland\'s most charming suburbs, a heritage village at the tip of the North Shore peninsula with Victorian wooden villas, independent bookshops, and café-lined streets. It feels like a small coastal town despite being just a 12-minute ferry ride from the CBD. The twin volcanic cones of Mount Victoria and North Head offer spectacular 360-degree views of the harbour, Rangitoto Island, and the city skyline.

North Head is a historic military reserve with tunnels and fortifications dating from the 1880s Russian scare through to World War II, now open for free exploration. The Devonport Naval Base, New Zealand\'s primary naval facility, adds to the maritime character. Victoria Road, the main street, is lined with art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants.

The broader North Shore stretches along the east coast with popular beaches including Takapuna (with its Sunday market and beach café culture), Milford, and Long Bay. The area is predominantly residential and affluent, offering a quieter alternative to staying in the CBD while remaining well connected by ferry and bus.

Nearby Landmarks

North Head Mount Victoria Cheltenham Beach Takapuna Beach Navy Museum

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost NZ\$90-\$120 (~\$54-\$72)
Time 40-55 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost NZ\$70-\$95 (~\$42-\$57)
Time 40-55 minutes

Outside arrivals

Step-by-Step Directions

Take SkyBus to Britomart, walk to Ferry Terminal, take Devonport ferry (12 min scenic crossing).

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi NZ\$90-\$120 (~\$54-\$72) 40-55 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare NZ\$70-\$95 (~\$42-\$57) 40-55 minutes Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

After midnight, taxis and Uber from the airport to Devonport cost NZD 90-120. The Devonport ferry runs until about 11:15 PM (later on Fridays/Saturdays). After the last ferry, you must drive or taxi across the Harbour Bridge. Late-night trips benefit from zero bridge traffic.

Luggage Tips

If taking the ferry route (SkyBus + ferry), you'll need to manage luggage on foot between the SkyCity bus stop and the ferry terminal (10-min walk). The ferry has flat boarding and plenty of space for bags. A direct taxi from the airport is easier with heavy or multiple bags.

Accessibility

The Devonport ferry is wheelchair accessible with flat boarding at both terminals. Devonport village is mostly flat along Victoria Road and the waterfront. North Head and Mount Victoria involve steep paths and are not wheelchair accessible. The SkyBus and Auckland CBD connections are accessible.