Auckland

Yes, Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, but that’s not why you should go there. When you’re in The City of Sails you’re never more than thirty minutes’ drive to the coast, now that is a good reason! Experience rugged and refined beauty on the coast in the form of stunning beaches (including the stretches of unusual black sand), bush hikes, wildlife encounters as well as emerald islands which are just a ferry ride away.

The modern, vibrant city of Auckland itself has funky local markets, plus there are plenty of shopping precincts and chic cafes and restaurants about. The harbour cruises are a great way to take in this beautiful city, and even indulging in a boutique winery or two is easy.

Yeah, ‘easy’. Not necessarily a term you’d expect when experiencing so much in and around one city, but Auckland truly does dish up so much, so easily.