Feast your senses on Auckland’s dazzling array of activities, plentiful dining and shopping options, and stunning landscapes in New Zealand’s biggest city; the cosmopolitan and culturally diverse ‘City of Sails’. With a unique location bordered by harbours and rainforest, Auckland also offers easy access to island escapes and back-to-nature hiking.

Around the Auckland Region

It’s the gateway to New Zealand for many, but it’s more than just a transit point – take time to explore this beguiling city. Fast-paced by New Zealand standards, the nation’s biggest centre covers 500 square kilometres. Centred between two harbours and bordered by rainforest, this city is unlike any other: a modern and multicultural Pacific centre.

Regional Destinations

Auckland City Urban life in New Zealand’s biggest city.

Waitākere Dramatic black-sand beaches and rainforest.

Kumeu Wineries and market gardens.

Piha West coast surf beach.

Muriwai Wild black-sand beach.

Orewa Bustling village on a beautiful golden beach.

Waiwera Soak in the hot pools.

Puhoi Living historic village.

Warkworth Gateway to beaches and wineries.

Matakana Wine country and white-sand beaches.

Leigh Swim at a marine reserve.

Waiheke Island Wineries and great beaches.

Rangitoto Island Iconic volcanic cone.

Kawau Island Quirky cultural history.

Tiritiri Matangi Island Bird sanctuary.

Highlights

Get out on the Waitematā Harbour – dotted with yachts and spanned by the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Climb a cone – there are 48 volcanic cones in Auckland and they offer great city views. Spend a night out at The Viaduct, Auckland’s favourite dining precinct, where restaurants and bars line the marina. Take in expansive views from the top of the Sky Tower. Dare to bungy jump off the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge. Visit the impressive Auckland Museum and the leafy Domain. Stroll around historic Parnell and shop ‘til you drop in the CBD.

City Hot Spots

The Auckland region is literally a hot spot! Hidden 100 kilometres beneath the city is an extra-hot mantle and from time to time over the past 140,000 years it has erupted as volcanoes. There are 48 volcanic cones around the city – the most recent to erupt was Rangitoto, about 600 years ago. Today the cones are pleasant green oases and great lookout points. Mount Eden (Maungawhau), One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie) and North Head in Devonport are all excellent vantage points.