Blog

Auckland

7th July 2021

Auckland, New Zealand’s largest and most vibrant city, captivates visitors with its unique blend of natural beauty and urban dynamism. Nestled between two sparkling harbours, the “City of Sails” boasts a stunning waterfront setting, where glistening waters meet lush green hills, and volcanic cones punctuate the skyline.

In Auckland, you’ll discover a city that embraces both the contemporary and the traditional. Its modern skyline features iconic landmarks like the Sky Tower, while the historic district of Parnell offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. Auckland’s diverse neighbourhoods showcase a rich tapestry of cultures.

Adventure beckons in every direction, with countless opportunities for sailing, hiking, and exploring volcanic craters in the city’s backyard. The Hauraki Gulf, dotted with picturesque islands, provides a playground for sailors and nature enthusiasts.

Gastronomy is a highlight here, with a thriving food scene that celebrates fresh seafood and farm-to-table cuisine. Be sure to savour some of the region’s world-renowned wines, hailing from nearby vineyards.

Auckland is a gateway to the stunning natural wonders of New Zealand, but it’s also a destination in its own right, offering a perfect blend of city life and breathtaking landscapes.


Highlights

  • Sky Tower
  • Viaduct
  • Rangitoto Island
  • Auckland Zoo and Kelly Tarlton’s
  • Rainbows End
  • Fantastic eateries
  • Countless museums

Auckland in Summer

Auckland in summer is a sun-soaked paradise where the city’s natural beauty truly shines. With its perfect climate and longer daylight hours, you can explore its stunning coastline, like Piha Beach and Waiheke Island, where white sandy shores meet crystal-clear waters. 

Outdoor festivals and concerts come to life in the warm air, while the vibrant streets of Ponsonby and Britomart buzz with energy. Adventure seekers can hike lush rainforests and dormant volcanoes, like Rangitoto, to savour panoramic views. 

The city’s gardens burst with colourful blooms, and alfresco dining is a must, with seafood and local produce at the forefront. Auckland summer is a vibrant, lively season that captures the essence of New Zealand’s natural allure.


Auckland in Autumn

As autumn descends upon Auckland, the city undergoes a picturesque transformation. Crisp air replaces the summer heat, making it the perfect time for leisurely walks through the Auckland Domain and Cornwall Park, both aglow with seasonal foliage. 

The mild temperatures offer a comfortable atmosphere for exploring the city’s museums, art galleries, and historic sites. Auckland in autumn is a time of cosy sweaters, delicious flavours, and the city’s parks bathed in the warm, golden light of this enchanting season.


Auckland in Winter

In the winter, Auckland unveils a different yet equally enchanting side of the city. While the temperatures may dip, the cosmopolitan spirit remains undiminished. Rain and occasional frosts might sprinkle the landscape, but this is the ideal season to cosy up with a cup of artisan coffee in the city’s trendy cafes. The cityscape shimmers under a soft, misty glow, offering a unique charm. Winter markets and events, such as the Auckland Lantern Festival, inject vibrancy into the city.

Escape to the nearby Waitakere Ranges to witness cascading waterfalls at their most dramatic, or embark on a journey to the thermal wonderland of Rotorua. Waiheke Island’s wineries beckon for a warm respite amidst breathtaking coastal landscapes.

Don’t forget the winter comfort food, featuring hearty stews and delectable seafood chowders. Winter is an invitation to embrace the city’s cosy, creative, and culturally rich atmosphere.


Auckland in Spring

Auckland in spring is a city reborn, as nature awakens from its winter slumber. This season blankets the city in a riot of colour and fragrance, with cherry blossoms, magnolias, and countless other blooms gracing its parks and gardens. The city’s iconic Cornwall Park is a living canvas of wildflowers, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics.

As the temperatures gently rise, outdoor activities abound. The Hauraki Gulf beckons with its crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal time for sailing and exploring the nearby islands, like Waiheke. It’s also a prime season for hiking amidst the verdant rainforests and volcanic trails.

Local markets brim with fresh produce and artisan crafts. The pleasant climate encourages alfresco dining, and you can savour New Zealand’s culinary delights at sidewalk cafes.


Accessing Auckland

One of New Zealand’s busiest airports is Auckland Airport (AKL) about a 30-minute drive to the CBD. Auckland connects by road to Hamilton (1.5 hours) and Rotorua (2.5 hours). A road trip from Auckland to the capital city, Wellington, takes about 8 hours. Just a 40-minute ferry ride away is the beautiful Waiheke Island.


Auckland Busy Periods

During these dates, when the town fills with visitors, it will pay to plan ahead and book early to avoid disappointment:

  • Christmas & New Year
  • Summer School Holidays 
  • Sporting Events (variable dates)
  • Concerts & Events (variable dates)
  • Marathon Weekend

MajorDomo’s Top Restaurant Picks

A selection of some of our favourite places to dine out for a special treat:

  • The Grove
  • Onslow
  • Soul Bar and Bistro
  • Sails
  • Baduzzi
  • Paris Butter

Auckland offers a vibrant mix of activities for visitors seeking a range of experiences. Here is a list of popular activities in Auckland:

  • Harbour Cruises
  • Sky Tower
  • Art Galleries and Museums
  • Hiking and Cycling Trails
  • Piha Beach
  • Sailing
  • Auckland Zoo

With an abundance of day hikes around the local area, we suggest popping into the local Department of Conservation office when you arrive to discuss the current status of tracks and which would be best suited to your fitness level.  Some of the more popular short hikes and day hikes include:

  • Cossey Massey Loop Track (moderate fitness level required)
  • Duder Regional Park Loop (moderate fitness level required)
  • Mercer Bay Loop Track (moderate fitness level required)
  • Maungawhau/Mt Eden Path (low fitness level required)
  • One Tree Hill (low fitness level required)
  • Karamatura to Mount Donald McLean (high fitness level required)

Ready to start planning your Auckland holiday?

If you’d like some help planning an Auckland holiday, you can browse our luxury Auckland properties here or contact us now to discuss your needs and we’ll do all the hard work for you.

Enquire Now

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