The most cosmopolitan of New Zealand’s cities, one fifth of Auckland’s one million inhabitants are of Polynesian descent. A fusion of traditions produces a vibrant urban culture that is both easy going and sophisticated.
With a lively calendar of events and a year full of festivals, Auckland’s people love life and celebration. Known as the ‘City of Sails’, all things nautical feature prominently and the city now has its own America’s Cup Village situated in recently redeveloped viaduct basin.
Around the city you can visit world-class wineries, hike the quiet forest trails of the Waitakere Ranges, or relax on the unspoiled islands of Waiheke and Rangitoto in the Hauraki Gulf whose glorious beaches, cafes and craft shops are just a short ferry ride away. A little further afield, are the historic Bay of Islands and Rotorua, New Zealand’s best known geothermal area and centre for Maori culture.
For those with limited time Auckland is a wise choice for a short stay, not only for the range of accommodation and excursions on offer, but because the major sites of the Bay of Islands and Rotorua can be visited in a day trip from the city.
I understand that one size doesn’t fit all, and that’s why you have the freedom to design your experience, your way.
Trip ideas
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Hike and Drive New Zealand
New Zealand Self DriveExplore with your own 4x4 and hike some of New Zealand's best backcountry trails.
From £4619
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Discover Aotearoa
New Zealand Self DriveThe ultimate self drive covering a lot of ground but with plenty of time to relax too.
From £4199
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New Zealand by Rail, Cruise and Coach
New Zealand Escorted RailExperience spectacular rail journeys and boat cruises on this escorted group tour.
From £5450 Excluding Flights
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New Zealand by Motorhome
New Zealand Self DriveThis motorhome itinerary offers you a wonderfully independent self-drive holiday.
From £2184
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Spectacular North and South
New Zealand Self DriveExplore New Zealand in depth on this well-paced self-drive allowing you to immerse yourself in the country's plentiful wonders.
From £4666
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North Island Classic
New Zealand Self DriveThis two-week self-drive holiday takes in the highlights of the North Island.
From £1966 Excluding Flights
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Wildlife Encounters
New Zealand Self DriveTrack down New Zealand's endemic wildlife on this self drive nature tour.
From £5037 Excluding Flights
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Whale and Dolphin Explorer
New Zealand Self DriveImmerse yourself in a wealth of wildlife and nature on this fantastic self drive.
From £3979 Excluding Flights
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Essential New Zealand
New Zealand Self DriveThis 14-day itinerary is designed for the budget-conscious traveller wanting to experience the best of New Zealand at an affordable cost.
From £1858
Trip experiences
Other New Zealand regions
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Christchurch and Canterbury
From the lofty Southern Alps to the broad Canterbury Plains, the peaceful spa resort of Hanmer Springs to the bustle of the country’s most English of cities, Christchurch, this stunning region is one of contrast and diversity with experiences to match.
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Dunedin and Southland
With an abundance of natural wonders that includes some of the best wildlife viewing in the country, the South Island’s southern tip can also lay claim to the most interesting architecture in the elegant and stately city of Dunedin.
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Nelson and Marlborough
The gateway to South Island, this is a region of sunshine, wine, arts and crafts and stunning nature encompassing an area of superlative natural beauty. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts or just those wanting a relaxing escape, this is a region not to be missed.
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Northland
Stretching 350km north from Auckland, Northland is New Zealand’s only sub-tropical region and with its above average sunshine record and glorious beaches, it is popular with locals as well as visitors.
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Pacific Coast
The Pacific coast region includes both the most travelled and least visited parts of New Zealand incorporating the Coromandel, the Bay of Plenty, Eastland and Hawke’s Bay.
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Rotorua and Central Plateau
In the geographic heart of New Zealand’s North Island, the immensely varied landscapes of this acclaimed region take in fertile farmlands, snow-capped volcanoes, steaming geothermal fields and crystal-clear trout-filled lakes.
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Southern Lakes
This picturesque southern corner of New Zealand has achieved almost legendary status for its superb scenery and range of adrenaline-charged activities, including skiing.
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Wellington and Wairarapa
Wellington is New Zealand’s vibrant capital city and is renowned for its arts and culture, proximity to nature and varied culinary experiences, perfectly complemented by the world class wines of the Wairarapa vineyards.
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West Coast
The West Coast of New Zealand's South Island is wild and rugged, yet immensely beautiful and a popular location for visitors.
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Western North Island
Taranaki is the North Island’s 'nose', a peninsula that juts out into the wild Tasman Sea. From its broad, flat plain, used mostly for dairy farming, the majestic volcanic cone of Mt. Taranaki rises to over 2500m.
