North Island

Auckland

Best timeAuckland is mild year-round.

Getting thereAuckland Airport has flights from around the world and across New Zealand.

Main townsAuckland Central, Devonport, Takapuna, Matakana, Waiheke Island

Built on volcanoes between two harbours, Auckland is New Zealand’s biggest city and the main gateway for international visitors, with island ferries, wine and black-sand surf beaches all within an hour.

Highlights

Waiheke Island Vineyards, olive groves and beaches about 40 minutes by ferry from downtown.
Volcanic cones Walk up Maungawhau / Mount Eden or Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill for views across the city.
Rangitoto Island A young volcano in the gulf with a lava-field walk to the summit.
West Coast beaches Piha, Karekare and Muriwai, with black sand, big surf and a gannet colony. Swim between the flags.
Waterfront and markets The Viaduct, Wynyard Quarter and weekend markets for food and people-watching.

Best time to go

Auckland is mild year-round. Summer (December to February) is best for beaches and islands; autumn (March to May) is often the most settled weather. Expect showers at any time.

Getting there

Auckland Airport has flights from around the world and across New Zealand. The city is the start of most North Island road trips, and InterCity buses and the Northern Explorer train (to Wellington) leave from the central city.