top of the north

There’s more to Auckland than you might think – the region offers access to world-class luxury accommodation, award winning wineries, vibrant culture and unique experiences making it a hot spot for kiwis. The City of Sails sprawls over volcanic hills and around twin harbours, offering an exhilarating mix of natural wonders and urban adventures.

It is the largest Polynesian city in the world, and with over 180 different ethnic groups, Auckland has blossomed into a multi-cultural hub of culture and art making it a bustling, cosmopolitan and vibrant city.

The Bay of Islands is part of New Zealand’s North Island mainland and includes a cluster of 144 subtropical islands which are centred around the main hub of Paihia, Opua and Waitangi, the nation’s birthplace. The area is renowned as an adventure playground for watersports and ocean enthusiasts. Spend time exploring the archipelago by kayak or boat or snorkelling and scuba diving while viewing the mesmerising array of underwater life.

Across the water from Paihia is Russell, the first capital of New Zealand which is surrounded by history. Inland are the towns of Kerikeri, Kawakawa and Kaikohe where there are heaps of natural features, historical sites and great food to experience, not to mention the array of award-winning wineries to indulge in.

If you’re looking for a peaceful beachside getaway, you can’t do much better than Omapere, or its twin resort Opononi, where relaxed living is the order of the day. The closest town to the entrance of Hokianga Harbour, Omapere has spectacular views over the bay and headlands. It offers a multitude of leisure and adventure options, including great swimming, fishing, and hiking. Browse the Omapere museum for a glimpse into the area’s rich history; take a water taxi from Opononi Wharf to the northern side of the harbour, where 150-metre sand dunes provide opportunities for sand boarding; or explore Waipoa Forest, home to giant ancient kauri trees.

A relaxed riverside settlement in the rural Makatana Coast area, Warkworth has a beguiling old-world charm. A wander through the centre of town will take you past many of its historical buildings – a throwback from its colonial past. Nature lovers should head to Parry Kauri Park, with its centuries-old kauri trees, or to Dome Forest, where you can hike to a hilltop with views that stretch as far as Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower. Nearby attractions include the beautiful wine country, with its excellent estates, quirky cafes, and craft studios, as well as Tawharanui Regional Park (known for its great swimming and surfing), and Goat Island Marine Reserve (for fantastic snorkelling off the beach).

A 40-minute ferry ride from central Auckland, Waiheke Island is a picturesque blend of farmland, forest, beaches and an abundance of award-winning wineries and olive groves that have become an essential for visitors to the island. Waiheke is also home to one of New Zealand’s most important artistic centres – local and international artists have chosen the Island as the base for their studios where visitors can see a mix of sculptures, ceramics and paintings.