Holidays in Auckland

Auckland is a cosmopolitan city situated in the North Island of New Zealand. Known to many as 'The City of Sails', Auckland is a harbour side city that looks out to both the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean. The area offers visitors an exciting range of attractions from world-class shopping and restaurants to surrounding nature, volcanos and black sand beaches.

When to take your Auckland holidays

Auckland has a temperate, oceanic climate with hot summers and cool to mild winters. The summer months are from December to March, which would be the perfect time to book your Auckland holidays. Temperatures from 20-30 degrees Celsius can be expected during this period. Auckland International Airport is conveniently located just 20 km south of the city centre. Buses, taxis and shuttle services are available to escort you to your destination upon arrival. The time zone is GMT+13.

Auckland holidays: What to see and do

A great place to begin your Auckland holidays would be in Auckland's bustling city centre. Since 1840 Queen Street has been the main strip for shopping, galleries, theatres and eating out. At the Viaduct Harbour visitors can choose from a wide range of bars, cafés and restaurants that line the sleek, modern waterfront. Popular harbour activities include a visit to the Voyager Maritime Museum, jet boating and whale and dolphin spotting cruises.

Just off the coast of Auckland is the spectacular Hauraki Gulf and Islands. Visitors can take a thirty minute ferry ride from the city centre to experience kayaking, wine-tasting or swimming at the beach. Rangitoto Island is home to New Zealand's largest volcano and forest area, ideal for 4WD tours and mountain hikes. Waiheke Island is renowned for it's many prestigious wineries and vineyards, while at Great Barrier Island visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as diving, fishing and surfing.