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.

Nicola

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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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

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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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Discover New Zealand’s North Island

Discover New Zealand’s North Island one a once-in-a-lifetime tour, starting in bustling Auckland and taking in enchantin...

Australasia
New-Zealand
North-Island
Auckland
Coromandel-Peninsula
Rotorua

14 nights from £4,469 per person

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Grand New Zealand

Tick off several New Zealand bucket-list destinations and activities on our 21-night Great New Zealand Touring Route fly...

Australasia
New-Zealand
North-Island
Auckland
Rotorua
Wellington

21 nights from £6,999 per person

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Acacia Cliffs Lodge
North-island

Acacia Cliffs Lodge is striking to look at with its bold angles, walls of glass and all-round edgy architectural design,...

Please contact one of our travel specialists

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The Sanctuary at Bay of Islands
North-island

With its postcard coastal views, homegrown cuisine and passion for wellness, offering just four highly exclusive suites,...

spa

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On the Point
North-island

All-suite On the Point hotel enjoys a privileged position on the banks of Lake Rotorua, fitting for a former 1930s mansi...

roadtrip
small & personal
honeymoon

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Escorted Tour of New Zealand

Prepare for an epic 18-night adventure through New Zealand on this small group tour, and discover all that makes this fa...

Australasia
New-Zealand
North-Island
Auckland
Rotorua
Wellington

18 nights from £11,835 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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QT Auckland
North-island

QT Auckland showcases fun design features throughout the hotel with quirky modern technology incorporated in the art déc...

honeymoon

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Where to go in North Island

New Zealand travel information

When to visit New Zealand

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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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