Auckland Holidays

New Zealand’s biggest city offers plenty of things to do, but no trip to Auckland would be complete without a visit to the Sky Tower. Soaring 328 metres into the clouds, it’s the most iconic building in Auckland’s skyline. Whether you head to the two observation decks or book a table at one of the tower’s many restaurants, you’re sure to be amazed by the panoramic views.

If you want to find out more about New Zealand’s fascinating Maori heritage and traditions, Auckland Museum is a must-visit. You can see the largest Maori and Pacific collection in the world, and watch cultural performances. Alternatively, if wildlife’s more your thing, a boat trip across the Hauraki Gulf should definitely be on your list of things to do in Auckland – you’ll be able to see wild whales and dolphins.

Thanks to Auckland’s diversity, the food scene is fantastic. You can try local cheese and wine at the city’s farmers markets or, if you’re a real foodie, why not book a gastronomy tour? There are food tours for all tastes, covering everything from street food to beer. Or you could simply stroll down to Viaduct Harbour, where you’ll find Auckland’s best restaurants. Enjoy an al fresco lunch watching sleek yachts come and go, or treat yourself to a gourmet meal in the evening.

Queenstown may be New Zealand’s thrill-seeking capital, but Auckland gives it a very good run for its money. You’ll find all sorts of daredevil activities here, making an Auckland holiday a great choice for adrenaline junkies.

Auckland’s Sky Tower offers two exhilarating adventures. First, there’s the SkyWalk. Wearing a full body harness, you can walk around the outside of the tower’s pergola on a metre-wide platform, taking in the views from 192 metres up. If that’s not thrilling enough for you, try the SkyJump. You can leap off the side of the Sky Tower and plunge down to ground-level – securely attached to a harness and wire, of course. Or you could go the whole hog and bungee-jump off Auckland Harbour Bridge. You can even dunk your head in the sea mid-jump, if you wish, before springing back up again.

If throwing yourself off a sky-high structure isn’t your idea of fun – understandably – why not try your hand at watersports? There are loads of water-based activities in Auckland. You could go on a gentle kayak and admire the city skyline from afar. Or, for something high-octane, zoom across the ocean on a jet ski or give windsurfing a go.

Auckland is well-placed for some lovely day trips, allowing you to discover more of the North Island. You could spend a day on idyllic Waiheke Island, just a short ferry-ride away. The most populated isle in the Hauraki Gulf, this place is home to award-winning vineyards, beautiful beaches and a range of walking trails. You can also try out a number of activities here, including snorkelling and zip-lining.

If you fancy a day of hiking, though, visit volcanic Rangitoto Island. This cone-shaped isle has all kinds of interesting sights, from lava caves to rare birds. But the highlight is the view from the island’s summit. The hike to the top takes about an hour, but it’s worth it for the sweeping panoramas – you’ll be able to see all the way across the Gulf to Auckland and beyond.

And, of course, fans of The Lord of the Rings should include a visit to Hobbiton™ on their Auckland holiday. It’s a two-hour drive from the city, but it’s certainly worth the trip. Scattered across 12 acres of pea-green land, this incredible outdoor film set features 44 Hobbit Holes and The Green Dragon™ pub, where you can sip a refreshing beer after your guided tour of the set.

The best time for your Auckland holiday very much depends on what you want to do while you’re there. Summer runs from December to February, when you can look forward to warm sunny days and an average temperature of 21°C. You’ll have great weather for hiking, watersports and outdoor activities – but you’ll pay for the privilege, as this is the most expensive time to visit Auckland.

Unless you’re a real outdoor enthusiast, then, consider going between March and May, or September and November. At this time of year – autumn and spring, respectively – you can expect pleasant temperatures in the mid-to-high teens, and the city will be much quieter. In the autumn months, you’ll be able to admire New Zealand’s fiery colours, while spring is the perfect time to see Auckland Botanic Gardens in bloom.

It’s best to avoid visiting Auckland between June and August. At this time, winter rain sweeps across the city and temperatures drop to single figures.