With the hype about a possible Trans-Tasman Bubble opening up before Christmas, we know a New Zealand adventure will be at the top of every Aussie’s Christmas list!
Rated the third most livable city in the world, Auckland is an exhilarating mix of natural wonders and urban adventures.
Boasting a sunny climate, Polynesian culture, outstanding food and wine, great shopping, and, of course, stunning natural sights galore – it’s easy to listen to the calls of awe-inspiring Auckland.
Will you answer?
While we’re here patiently waiting for the Trans-Tasman bubble to fall into place, here are some dreamy NZ inspo and a few reasons why the City of Sails needs to be on the top of your travel wish list!
Great Barrier Island wilderness adventures are calling you
Great Barrier Island is the largest and most seaward of the Hauraki Gulf islands in Auckland region. The native forest is laced with beautiful walking tracks, which lead to secluded natural hot springs and a historic Kauri dam.
Great Barrier Island is a popular destination for diving, fishing, surfing, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, and camping. Discover the island’s native wildlife, with excellent bird watching, snorkeling, and dive spots. The protected forest, clean waters, and conservation efforts have allowed wildlife to thrive.
Rising 627 meters above the sea, Hirakimata (Mount Hobson) beckons the hiker with the promise of incredible 360-degree views, and for star-gazing enthusiasts, Great Barrier Island (Aotea) is the perfect place for taking in the stunning starry vistas. The island has been designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary – joining only ten other locations in the world. To get a glimpse, view this amazing time-lapse video.
World-class wine & dining is calling you
Auckland is home to a melting pot of cultures, with over 200 different ethnic groups helping to create Auckland’s exciting world-class culinary scene.
Surrounded by fertile land and rich waters, its home to world-class chefs, food producers and winemakers. Along with the city’s impressive range of restaurants, bars, cafés and markets, Auckland’s wine regions are a must for foodies. Award-winning pinot Gris and rich, full Syrah are among the area’s specialties.
A must-do for all food and wine lovers is Waiheke Island (also known as ‘the island of wine). From prominent clifftop wineries to small cellar doors, you’ll find award-winning vintages and a wide range of varietals. Enjoy your wine with tranquil countryside vistas or sweeping views across the Hauraki Gulf.
Auckland Sky Tower is calling you
Climb up and away from the crowds with the Sky Tower walk. There’s no better way to practice social distracting than a Sky Walk on one of the tallest buildings in the Southern Hemisphere or if you’re brave enough try the Sky Tower bungee Jump!
Muriwai Beach’s beauty is calling you
Take in the beauty of Muriwai’s rugged landscape and visit the famous cliff-top gannet colony, where around 1200 pairs of gannets nest from August to March. The viewing platforms give you sweeping views far over the Tasman Sea.
Stroll along the boardwalk that hugs the coastline and breathe in the crisp sea air, alongside the wild waves and rolling black sand dunes.
Keen to get active? Take a lesson at the local surf school or hire blokarts, kites, mountain bikes or surfboards, or play a round of golf at the nearby course.
Rangitoto Island is calling
Rangitoto is difficult to miss. Auckland’s youngest and largest volcano rises 260m out of the Hauraki Gulf and is visible across the city. It is impressive from a distance, but even more spectacular up close.
As you step onto the island you can look back and be treated to a unique view of Auckland city. As the city fades into the distance and Rangitoto nears, you’ll start to appreciate the vastness of the island and imagine how it must have looked some 700 years ago when it violently erupted out of the sea.
Once you reach the summit, you’re treated to breathtaking 360-degree views. The walk up to the summit is suitable for ages and abilities. It’s the perfect spot for a post-isolation hike.
Manukau Heads Lighthouse and cliff top winery is calling you
With vast panoramas and sweeping coastlines the walk through Awhitu Penisula to the light house is just as gorgeous as the destination.
The historical Manukau Heads Lighthouse juts out from the tip of the peninsula, located in the Franklin district. The lighthouse is one of only a few in New Zealand that are open to the public and the views are amazing.
Sculptureum is calling
This unique attraction voted as TripAdvisor’s ‘No. 2 Best Thing To Do In Auckland’ is designed to inspire you with a world of art, food and wine.
Located an hour north of Auckland and just outside Matakana is Sculptureum, a world-class tourist attraction. With three sculpture-filled gardens, six art galleries, a vineyard, an events space, and Rothko restaurant and bar, there is something for everyone.
Click here for more information.
