Auckland is New Zealand's largest city and main transport hub. Make sure you stop and enjoy the shopping, dining and natural wonders Auckland has to offer.  Imagine an urban environment where everyone lives within half an hour of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanted holiday islands. Add a sunny climate, a background rhythm of Polynesian culture and a passion for outstanding food, wine and shopping, and you’re beginning to get the picture of Auckland, our largest and most diverse city.

SHOPPING AND DINING

 

Auckland is a shopaholic's paradise, with everything from top-end designers to open air street markets. While you're here, enjoy the city's diverse cafes, restaurants and nighlife. Favourite downtown spots include Wynyard Quarter, the Viaduct Harbour and the Britomart precinct.  Once you've seen the city, head out to one of Auckland's four distinct wine districts where you can sample local vino against the backdrop of rolling hills and sparkling ocean.

CITY OF SAILS

 

Wherever you are in Auckland, you’re never far from the water. From wild West Coast surf beaches to the tranquil Hauraki gulf, the sea and all its attractions are why this is known as the City of Sails. Make sure you get out on the water while you're here, whether it’s a relaxing harbour cruise, a fishing charter, whale and dolphin spotting, kayaking or surfing. 

AUKLAND'S SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS

 

Auckland's North Shore Beaches

Dip your toes into the North Shore's beachy lifestyle. A series of sandy bays stretches from Cheltenham to Torbay.

Auckland's West Coast Beaches

Pass through Auckland's rainforest ranges to find the west coast.

Auckland's Volcanic Cones

Panoramic views of Auckland's harbour and beyond await you atop Mount Eden and One Tree Hill.

Wenderholm Regional Park

Swim at the beach, kayak up a river, explore a native forest headland or camp overnight in a seaside regional park just north of Auckland.

Tawharanui Regional Park

This regional park is one of north Auckland's best-kept secrets. If a swell is running from the north or east, come ready to play in the surf.

Muriwai Gannet Colony

From August to March each year you can watch the comings and goings of a busy gannet colony. It's hugely entertaining.

Devonport & North Head

Discover colonial cottages, stately waterfront homes and World War II defences that run deep into a volcanic cone.

Tamaki Drive and Beaches

Enjoy on-street cafes, park-like picnic areas and safe sandy beaches just minutes from Auckland's central business district

Parnell Historic Walk

Explore the historic houses and buildings of Parnell, New Zealand's first suburb. Be tempted by great cafes and specialty shops along the way.

Rotoroa Island

A unique arts, heritage and conservation island opens in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf.

Farewell Spit

With open sea on one side and sheltered waters on the other, this massive sandspit has two entirely different faces.

Hunua Ranges

Enjoy nature walks, mountain biking, fishing and camping in the largest mainland forest within the Auckland region.

Auckland Botanic Gardens

Learn about plants from New Zealand and around the world. This beautiful garden offers 64 hectares of cleverly themed displays.

Stirling Point

There are some wonderful photo opportunities in Bluff, where you'll find Stirling Point and Bluff Hill.

Waiheke Island

One of the jewels of the Hauraki Gulf. It’s just a 40 minute ferry ride from the hustle and bustle of downtown Auckland.

Great Barrier Island 

A large island with a small population. The forests, beaches and bays provide scope for all kinds of wilderness adventures.

 

Towns in Auckland

As well as hosting New Zealand's largest city, the Auckland region features many quaint, diverse places. Don't miss visiting Piha beach and Waiheke Island.  Townships include...

Auckland Central, Great Barrier Island, Helensville, Kawau Island, Orewa, Piha, Pukekohe, Waiheke Island and Warkworth.