The logical starting point or conclusion to a holiday in New Zealand, Auckland has the cosmopolitan vibe that you would expect from any country's largest city but this is a city with a difference - it's all about the water. Set between the sparkling waters of the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours and a previous host to sailing's blue riband event The America's Cup, the sobriquet of 'City of Sails' is apt.

Aucklanders are passionate about getting out on the water and there are many ways to join them; ranging from a short ferry ride over to the quaint artists' haunt of devonport to a day's cruise on a fully crewed, luxurious motor launch. You can enjoy calm seas and white sand beaches on the islands of the Hauraki Gulf including idyllic Waiheke Island which is becoming increasingly famed for its excellent wines and cuisine as well as its stunning natural beauty. In addition for something a little more unusual, drive an hour west to discover thundering surf and black sand.

The bigger of the two islands, the North Island is also home to the country’s largest city; Auckland. Known as the ‘City of the Sails’ due to its location between the waters of the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours, you’ll find that Aucklanders are passionate about getting out on the water and there are many ways to join them; from a short ferry ride over to the quaint artists’ haunt of Devonport to a day’s cruise on a fully crewed, luxurious motor launch.

You can enjoy calm seas and white sandy beaches on the islands of the Hauraki Gulf including idyllic Waiheke island, famed for its stunning natural beauty. The Bay of Islands boasts gorgeous coastal scenery too but is also home to some of the country’s most important history. Rotorua lays claim to being at both the thermal and Maori heart of the country, a fascinating combination of geysers, boiling mud pools and cultural experiences, while nearby Lake Taupo is ideal for those wishing to indulge in a spot of trout fishing. The Hawke’s Bay region’s boutique vineyards and abundant local produce combine to create a gastronome’s delight. At the foot of the North Island lies Wellington, where you’ll find an array of fascinating galleries and museums, with superb dining to boot.

Stephanie

Travel Specialist

I'm here to tailor-make your perfect North Island holiday. Give me a call and I'll use my expertise to create your personalised experience.
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QT Wellington
North-island

One of the most stylish hotels in New Zealand, the QT Wellington features chic accommodation, a magnificent art collect...

spa

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The Duke of Marlborough Hotel
North-island

This is New Zealand’s oldest licensed hotel, and today offers spectacular views over Russell’s waterfront in the Bay of ...

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The Boatshed
North-island

Take a break from the busy streets of Auckland and escape to the Boatshed, an upmarket, beach-chic boutique hotel with a...

spa
beach
small & personal
honeymoon

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Eagles Nest
North-island

A luxury New Zealand hotel in a league of its own, Eagles Nest is a true den of decadence with five individually designe...

bucket list

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Family Friendly New Zealand Tour

Embark on a tailor-made adventure across New Zealand's North and South Islands with our family-focused two-week tour fil...

Australasia
New-Zealand
North-Island
Auckland
Rotorua
South-Island

14 nights from £5,999 per person

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Highlights of New Zealand Wineries

On this wonderful fifteen-night self-drive tour, take a journey through regions that account for more than 80% of New Ze...

Australasia
New-Zealand
North-Island
Auckland
Rotorua
South-Island

16 nights from £8,299 per person

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The Landing
North-island

Get ready for something quite remarkable when booking your stay at The Landing, a four-villa escape ranking as one of th...

spa
honeymoon
private villa

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Kinloch Manor & Villas
North-island

Emerging beside one of New Zealand’s foremost golf courses and the glittering Lake Taupo, Kinloch Manor & Villas is a su...

spa
golf

Please contact one of our travel specialists

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Luxury New Zealand

Set in the azure seas of the South Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is renowned for its green environment and remarkable sceni...

Australasia
New-Zealand
North-Island
Auckland
Rotorua
Wellington

19 nights from £21,385 per person

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Round The World Grand Tour

Explore Singapore’s sunlit ‘Gardens by the Bay’ to start your romantic honeymoon, or celebrate your birthday in style on...

Australasia
Asia
Singapore
Australia
New-South-Wales
Sydney

26 nights from £10,999 per person

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  • Time zone: +13 GMT
  • Flight time: 25 hours
  • Recommended airlines: Air New Zealand, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airlines
  • Currency: New Zealand Dollar
  • Tipping guideline: Optional, but not expected
  • Health considerations: No major health risks.
  • Capital: Wellington
  • Population: 5,269,938
  • National languages: English, Maori
  • Electricity and plugs: Type I (V), 230V
  • Mobile phone coverage: Good coverage
  • UK passport visa requirements: You need an ETA for New Zealand if you have a British passport - apply online

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