AUCKLAND
The City of Sails
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.
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. 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. Wherever you are in Auckland, you’re never far from the water. 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.
Sky Tower: The Auckland Sky Tower is the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere. Head to the top of the 300-meter wonder and see Auckland’s skyline from up above, the view accompanied by award-winning restaurants and a gift shop. You also bungy jump from the tower with SkyJump or walk around the top with SkyWalk.
City Lights Tour or Segway Tour: Hop on a bike and view the city at night from a different point of view, with your and your small group of 4 weaving through the luminous city with a tour guide pointing out famous installations and structures unique to the city. You can enjoy the same experience without breaking a sweat on a Segway if you’d rather explore a different way.
Harbor Bridge Climb: Ascend Auckland’s very own architectural wonder, the Auckland Harbour Bridge, and see the rewarding skyline from up top. Enjoy an active and exciting experience on your climb and spot your hotel and other landmarks on your way up- just don’t look down.
Harbor Bridge Bungy Jump: Are the city walks just not cutting it for you? Do you need something to get your blood pumping and adrenaline surging? Then the Harbor Bridge Bungy Jump is for you- where you can drop right over Auckland Harbor and shoot right back up with the top of the line bungy system available.
Harbor Cruise: Kick back with a glass of champagne and food while your guide points out Auckland landmarks and explains the city’s history and culture. Pass under the Harbor Bridge and watch the sun set from the ship as you relax with top tier drinks and food onboard.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves: Leave Auckland and travel through the lush farmland of the Waikato and King Country regions. Enjoy a guided tour through the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves formed from limestone over 30 million years ago. Take a silent boat ride through the Glowworm Grotto - where thousands of glowworms light up the darkness like tiny stars.
Bay of Islands: a short flight or 3-hour drive will take your feet from boots and concrete to flip-flops and white sand at the Bay of Islands. With vast stretches of turquoise water and over one hundred untouched islands, the Bay certainly is a breath of fresh air from the busy city.
Auckland Zoo: Take a look at the huge array of wildlife the Auckland Zoo has to offer in its modern and spacious facility. Alongside the Zoo essentials, the park also has an area dedicated to the species exclusive to New Zealand. Learn of the critters that make the country so special with a trip down to the Auckland Zoo.
Mount Eden: Ascend Auckland’s very own volcanic Mount Eden. Take the short hike up to the top for a breathtaking view of the cityscape and its stunning chemistry with the natural landscape.
Waitekere Ranges: Get up off the couch and head out for a lengthy 4-hour jungle adventure with a guide in the Waitekere Ranges, where you can get lost in its dense forest and stunning natural wonders. Learn about the ecology exclusive to the area while you and your friends or family hike through the forest and along the coast.
Waiheke Island: Take a 45-minute ferry ride out to Waiheke Island, a summer paradise equipped with Vineyards, beautiful beaches, bush walks, and an endless supply of fine dining. With the island so accessible from the main city, it’s simply a must-visit and a breath of fresh air from the bustling city.