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A cosmopolitan blend of cultures in New Zealand's largest city

It frequents the list for most liveable city year after year and after a bit of time in Auckland it’s not hard to understand why. New Zealand’s largest cosmopolitan centre is a lively mix of culture, cuisine, music and art with ample green spaces and easily accessible beaches.

With a population of 1.4 million, Auckland makes up 30% of New Zealand’s population and is three times the size of the next city in line; Wellington. It is the modern melting pot of the Pacific with influences from Asia, the Pacific islands and Europe along with traditional Maori culture.

A fresh and vibrant city, Auckland boasts some of the best eateries and cafes in the country, many of which are found in the downtown dining and shopping heart; Britomart. The city’s harbour, previously lacking in soul, underwent a revamp before hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2011 which saw the development of some excellent entertainment hubs. One of these was Wynyard Quarter, a bustling meeting point for locals and visitors alike with its cutting-edge cafes, restaurants and bars breathing new life into Auckland’s waterfront.

However, Auckland’s true character is revealed in its neighbourhoods. From the fashion and foodie elite Ponsonby in the west to the sophisticated and elegant Parnell in the east. Around the city’s waterfront you’ll discover the settlements of Mission Bay and Kohimarama with sandy beach promenades and laid-back eateries. Across the Harbour Bridge you leave city life behind, replaced instead with the laidback beach town mentality of Takapuna and Devonport. The city’s skyline is dotted with grassy volcanic cones, jutting out of tree-lined suburbs, the most famous of which is Mount Eden – offering some of the best views over Auckland.

There is plenty to see beyond the city, with the Hauraki Gulf filled with tranquil, inviting islands. Closest to the mainland is Waiheke, a foodie’s haven and home to world-class wineries. Or head out west to the dramatic black-sand coastline and rustic, surfer hangout; Piha.

Highlights

Explore Auckland’s Rangitoto Island and its dormant volcano

Hit the beach in Auckland’s West Coast and the black sand Muriwai Beach

Experience a traditional Maori culture tour

Enjoy the vibrant cafe and restaurant culture of downtown Auckland

Visit the Sky Tower and Auckland Harbour Bridge

Explore New Zealand’s largest city, built atop an active volcanic region! Take a short ferry over to Waiheke Island to savour some of New Zealand’s delicious wines. Relax beachside looking out to the Auckland skyline observing the many superyachts coming to dock in the “City of Sails”.

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Charlie Morris

Travel Designer

Why book with Jacada?

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Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

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Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

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Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Luxury accommodation in Auckland

There are many incredible places to stay in Auckland. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:
Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your Auckland tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Meet your Australasia team

When to visit

The best time to visit New Zealand to explore the country’s spectacular natural beauty is during the summer, December to February. The days will be dry and warm, often exceeding 25°C (77°F), and there’s over 15 hours of glorious daylight. Summer is perfect for hiking, biking, visiting beaches and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere in towns and cities.

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Wine Tasting

March-April

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Ski and Snowboard

June-September

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Whale and Dolphin Spotting

Year Round

When is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand?

When is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand?

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Plan your trip to Auckland

Whatever you want from your adventure in Auckland, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Plan with peace of mind

When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.

If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.

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