After a discussion one night with a local, I decided to spend a day exploring Devonport, a small town across the harbor. While you can get there by bus or car going way up and around, the easiest method is by ferry right from the historic ferry building in CBD. It was a cheap $8NZD and about a 15 minute ride across.
Having had negative experiences with the touristy boat information desks, it was refreshing to have such friendly people working here. The ticket desk was helpful to explain how it worked and how to easily get back. The dock and boat crews were all very friendly and welcoming as well. The terminal itself has a number of vending machines, plenty of comfortable seating shielded from the harbor winds and rain, and really nice clean restrooms before your journey.
If you're in Auckland and don't have time to spend on the further away islands, Devonport is a great place to go. read more