Auckland

A vibrant harbour city where urban energy meets volcanic landscapes, island escapes, and rich cultural heritage.

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and a melting pot of culture, cuisine, and coastlines. Built between two harbours and scattered with ancient volcanic cones, it blends metropolitan sophistication with easy access to nature. One moment you’re sipping cocktails on a rooftop bar, the next you’re climbing a dormant volcano or sailing to a subtropical island. With its blend of Māori, Pasifika, and international influences, Auckland delivers an exciting gateway to the country—diverse, dynamic, and full of surprises.

See and Do

The local favourite
Take the short ferry ride across the harbour to Waiheke Island, known for its vineyards, beaches and bohemian charm. Spend the day wine tasting at award-winning cellar doors with sweeping sea views, lunching at beachfront bistros, or exploring artists’ studios tucked into native bush. Whether you’re walking the headlands or swimming at Oneroa Beach, Waiheke feels like a world away—but it’s just 40 minutes from downtown Auckland.

A scene of pure natural beauty
Auckland’s volcanic landscape is unlike any other. Walk to the summit of Maungawhau / Mount Eden, one of the city’s 53 volcanic cones, for panoramic views over the skyline and both coasts. Or head west to the Waitākere Ranges, where rainforest-cloaked hills spill down to rugged black-sand beaches like Piha and Karekare. These wild stretches of coast are beloved by surfers and walkers alike, and offer a breathtaking contrast to the bustle of the inner city.

Adventures in nature
Sailing is in Auckland’s DNA—it’s not called the “City of Sails” for nothing. Charter a yacht for a harbour cruise, try your hand at sailing an America’s Cup vessel, or ferry out to Tiritiri Matangi Island, a predator-free wildlife sanctuary. For land-based adventure, cycle the waterfront paths, climb the Auckland Harbour Bridge, or zipline on Waiheke. Thrill-seekers can even base jump from the Sky Tower for a truly unique view of the city.

For an island escape, choose between Waiheke, Motuihe, Rangitoto, or journey a little further to Tiritiri Matangi, Kawau or Great Barrier. Each island has a different character and different things to do. Take your hiking boots or a good book and beach towel; you can be as active, or as inactive, as you like.

Beaches & Vineyards To the west, north and south there are beaches and vineyards. The native forests of the Waitakere and Hunua ranges let you discover New Zealand’s unique bird and tree species, particularly the giant kauri tree.