Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf
As one of the most spectacular harbour cities in the world, everyone lives within half an hour of beautiful beaches, rainforests, vineyards and an expansive harbour and gulf with dozens of enchanting islands. This fashion and entertainment mecca is known as the City of Sails for its sailing mad locals. More than 60 extinct volcanoes dot its landscape offering sweeping views - but none as panoramic as the soaring Sky Tower downtown. With the largest Polynesian population in the world, its music, markets and culture hum with a distinct Pacifica beat. Its borders are wild, black sand beaches to the west and the Hauraki Gulf to the east with its island retreats. Jump on a ferry to the bird sanctuary of Tirtiri Matangi and grape laden vineyard restaurants on Waiheke Island, or further afield to Great Barrier Island where time seems to have stood still.
Highlights:
Visit Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city, and enjoy some refreshment in the revolving restaurant. You can even jump off the top if you'd like to!
Visit Auckland Museum – an excellent introduction to New Zealand, past and present
Take the ferry to the quaint seaside village of Devonport
See the wild black sands of the west coast surf beaches
Take a bushwalk in the Waitakere Ranges – only 30 minutes from the city
Visit the pristine Great Barrier Island, with unspoilt beaches and bush
Walk on Rangitoto Island for panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf
Regular visitors to our pages will be aware that we love small ship cruising – why not see Auckland and the Bay of Islands from the water – call for details.
