Auckland & Bay of Islands

Auckland, formed by two large harbours, is the most populous urban area in New Zealand. There’s always something to do in and around the city. Throughout the year, Auckland hosts festive experiences, sporting events and is home to numerous cultural and heritage attractions and photography walking tour opportunities. With great waterside dining and being surrounded by various vineyards and wineries, Auckland’s food and wine scene is certainly worth savouring.

The Bay of Islands is a New Zealand enclave encompassing more than 140 subtropical islands next to the country’s North Island mainland. It can be reached from Auckland by car and ferry in under 4 hours. It’s a superb destination for underdeveloped golden beaches, water-based activities such as fishing, sailing and dolphin watching. The sunsets over these paradise islands are incredible too.

 

What you’ll love most about Auckland & Bay of Islands

• Whilst in Auckland, you’ll never be far from a phenomenal dining experience. Given that eating and drinking your way around New Zealand is one of the best ways to explore the country, why not start your foodie adventure here at a waterfront restaurant or enjoy a luxury dinner cruise
• Join a marine mammal eco-safari and see bottlenose dolphins and Brydes whales in Auckland’s amazing Hauraki Gulf Marine Park
• Go diving, snorkelling or kayaking in New Zealand’s first marine reserve – Goat Island. Alternatively, head just offshore from Tutukaka to the Poor Knights Islands which is one of the best diving sites in the world
• Explore the ancient Waipoua Forest with local Maori guides and see New Zealand’s largest Kauri tree
• One way to explore the region’s coastline and lush forests is to take a fascinating bike ride along the Twin Coast Cycle Trail that stretches between the east coast of Bay of Islands and Hokianga Harbour to the west
• There are plenty of waterfalls to discover. Head out of Whangarei City for just 10 minutes by car and you’ll find the 26 metre high Whangarei Falls

Where to Book