Auckland

Beaches, wine regions, shopping, cycling trails, rainforest, marine life, markets, culture; is there anything that Auckland doesn’t offer?

Nestled towards the tip of the North Island, Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and is one of the country’s major transport hubs with the Auckland international airport just a twenty-five-minute drive from the city centre. Split in to five very distinct regions; central, north, west, south, and east Auckland, and the Hauraki Gulf and Islands, wherever you go in Auckland, you’ll find something special.

Don’t Miss

  • A visit to the Auckland Museum. Its full of fascinating New Zealand history
  • Wandering beyond the main shopping streets and exploring the city laneways tucked behind.
  • Catching some of the best Kiwi comedians at ‘The Classic’ comedy club
  • Joining the locals at one of the cities night markets

Central Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf

Central Auckland is home to the buzzing CBD. The city is based around two harbours; the Viaduct Harbour and Waitemata Harbour, which is often just referred to as Auckland Harbour. The Viaduct Harbour is a buzzing hub of dining and entertainment. Take a stroll along the waterfront and admire the sleek super-yachts that bob gently on the waters of the sheltered harbour; dine in style at one of the many restaurants scattered along the water’s edge, or soak up some of New Zealand’s rich maritime history with a visit to the Voyager Maritime Museum. With world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment right on your doorstep, there’s something to suit every budget and taste.

For those looking for more of New Zealand’s iconic natural beauty, the Hauraki Gulf and surrounding islands are a nature-lover’s paradise.

Whether you’re embarking on a day trip or cruising your way around the Gulf, you can’t fail to be impressed with the scenery on offer. Relax on the golden beaches of the tranquil islands, try your hand at kayaking through the crystal waters, or go dolphin-spotting. For those who enjoy a glass of wine, or two, no trip would be complete without a stop at Waiheke island, also known as the Island of Wine.

Explore the West and East Coasts of Auckland

For more natural beauty; be sure to venture out to East Auckland. The Pohutukawa Coast has one of the most beautiful coastlines in the Auckland region and is a family-friendly destination with plenty to see and do. For those looking to indulge in a little eating and drinking on their holiday, Clevedon is home to beautiful boutique eateries and wineries.

West Auckland is a must-visit destination for those who prefer to walk on the wild side. The west coast is home to some spectacular black-sand beaches including Karekare Beach which was featured in Jane Campion’s The Piano. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, why not spend an hour or two wandering through native rainforest, or sampling some more of New Zealand’s incredible wine.

For the best of both worlds, you really can’t beat South Auckland. This area is a melting pot of cultures from around the world and sees history, adventure and natural beauty combined. Visit Mangere and see traces of the very first Maori settlements, walk along the black beaches of the Awhitu Peninsula, or enjoy a relaxed break in Pukekohe; home to lively markets, world-class golf, motor-racing and a rich rail history.

Ready to visit Auckland? Get in touch!

Insider Tips


Peter and Kath Hyde have guided many of our groups around Rangitoto Island. Peter, a retired geography teacher is an expert on the flora and fauna of the island .

If you’re thinking of visiting the island- and why not? …there are great views from the summit – he strongly recommends wearing stout walking shoes or boots since you’ll be walking on volcanic rock and be sure to slap plenty of sun cream on.

 

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