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Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland

The city of sails

Things to do in Auckland

Introduction

You're never far from the water in Auckland, a city that has more recreational boats per capita than any other city in the world, earning it the name the ‘City of Sails'. Head out from its bustling harbour and city-centre attractions to discover idyllic islands and wineries in the Hauraki Gulf.

Discover Auckland's downtown attractions

Despite being New Zealand's largest city and its commercial hub, Auckland rarely feels crowded, even in its centre. Here, life revolves around Viaduct Harbour – a buzzing centre for shopping, dining and nightlife. The revolving restaurant and viewing deck of the 328-metre Sky Tower is another attraction not to be missed. Indeed, given the right conditions, it's possible to see as far as the Coromandel Peninsula.


Downtown Auckland

Visit Auckland's Fashionable suburbs

One of the great things about Auckland is that there's far more to the city than its downtown headlines. The surrounding suburbs of Ponsonby, Parnell, Newmarket and Devonport all offer something different, from boutique art galleries and weekend farmer's markets to hipster bars and cafes that add a touch of quirkiness and vibrancy. It's all easily explored from a city-centre base, with regular bus services connecting the various neighbourhoods in an easy-to-navigate loop.

Explore Auckland's islands

The city extends across a wide area and much of it either overlooks or is near to bays, inlets, rivers and the twin harbours of Manakau and Waitemata. Wineries and wild beaches are all accessible from the city, whether you stay in the centre, a waterfront suburb or among the nearby Gulf islands. And, dotted around Auckland are the humps of 50 or so extinct volcanoes, some of which were once the site of Maori fortified villages, and which today afford wonderful views back across the city. An enjoyable day trip is a drive through the Waitakera Ranges to the white-sand beach at Piha on the west coast, a drive that takes you through some of New Zealand's most spectacular native forest.


Waiheke Island, Hauraki Gulf

 

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Top itineraries in Auckland

Queenstown, New Zealand

Highlights of New Zealand

19-day tailor-made self-drive from £3,705 pp incl. flights

With boutique hotel stays and car hire included throughout, this curated road trip perfectly showcases the unique cultures and natural wonders of New Zealand's North and South islands.

Cathedral Cove, Coromandel, New Zealand.

Best of New Zealand's North Island

17-day tailor-made self-drive from £4,070 pp incl. flights

Between stunning volcanic landscapes, sub-tropical beaches and world-class wineries, this fly-drive holiday showcases the best of New Zealand's North Island.

TranzAlpine Train

New Zealand by Rail

15-day tailor-made rail holiday from £4,065 pp incl. flights

Making the most of spectacular rail routes linking sweeping coastlines, vibrant cities and epic national parks, this itinerary showcases just why New Zealand is tailor-made for a holiday by train.

Rotorua, New Zealand

Cultural Highlights of New Zealand

19-day tailor-made self-drive from £5,490 pp incl. flights

A tip-to-toe tour of New Zealand, taking in the best of its landscapes and culture, and calling into filming locations from The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.

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Top places to stay in Auckland

Jacuzzi at Delamore Lodge, Waiheke Island

Delamore Lodge, Waiheke Island

Small & intimate lodge

Just 35 minutes from Auckland in New Zealand's Hauraki Gulf, Delamore Lodge on beautiful Waiheke Island offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life in one of the North Island's most picturesque locations.

The Boatshed, Waiheke Island

The Boatshed, Waiheke Island

Small & intimate lodge

Originally the small holiday cottage of designer David Scott and now one of New Zealand's best-loved boutique luxury hotels, The Boatshed enjoys a stunning location above the picturesque sun-drenched bay of Oneroa.

Heritage Auckland Superior Room Tower Wing_85609

Heritage Auckland

Traditional hotel

Billed as one of Auckland’s ‘most iconic buildings’, this Art Deco classic has been something of a city landmark since its 1920s construction.

Sofitel Auckland lobby, New Zealand

Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour

Contemporary hotel

Whether it’s the spa, restaurant or indulgent rooms, this is Gallic chic in a truly New Zealand setting.

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When to go to Auckland

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Meet our Auckland experts

Speak to a tailor-made specialist on 020 7981 9996

Meet the team

Why book with Wexas Travel?

At Wexas, we specialise in bespoke travel experiences. Our itineraries are just samples of what we can arrange, and can be changed depending on your precise needs, finances and ideas by our experienced destination specialists.

Contact one of our consultants on 020 7981 9996 to discuss how we can tailor your holiday.

Learn why Wexas is the leader in creating luxury holidays. What is tailor-made travel?

Expert advice & support

Visit us in our London office

Let our travel specialists curate the perfect holiday:

  • Inspirational ideas based on experience
  • Established for over 50 years
  • Tailor a holiday to your precise requirements
  • Personalised quotes and documentation

Every step of the way

Every step of the way

Our services are with you from start to finish:

  • Dedicated personal consultants
  • Free airport lounges on qualifying bookings
  • Care and guidance pre, post and during holiday
  • Full financial security: ATOL & ABTOT protected