Arriving in a new place, most people like to begin by finding their bearings – so choose between a refreshing walk up the volcanic cone of Maungawhau or Mt Eden, a 220m elevator ride to the top of the Sky Tower, a scenic flight with Auckland Seaplanes, or throw yourself out of a perfectly good plane from a thrilling 20,000ft with Skydive.
But perhaps you’ve just left a bustling city, and you’d much prefer unspoilt bays? Then go west and experience the chain of rugged black sand beaches, from Muriwai with its celebrated gannet colony (August - March), to the lunar dunes of Bethells, or quirky little Huia, Auckland's west coast is renowned for blowing out the cobwebs.
Another compelling reason to visit Auckland - the alluring islands of the Hauraki Gulf. Savour Waiheke’s vineyards and secluded coves, and see for yourself why Lonely Planet declared the island one of the Top 10 regions to visit in the world. Or venture to Rangitoto, Auckland's youngest volcano, and walk up the island’s scoria skirts to the crater’s peak. You can take a 25-minute ferry ride, but few things beat an expedition with Auckland Sea Kayaks, an adventure that involves a guided walk to the summit, a gourmet BBQ, and a paddle back to the mainland as the sun sets and the city’s lights twinkle into life – simply sublime. Want more twinkling? Book a night sky tour with the good people from Good Heavens at Great Barrier Island where the island is a designated Dark Sky Sanctuary. Arrive by air, you’ll find two airlines serve the island with regular daily services (flights as little as $69 one way) and the views are amazing. Or enjoy an outing with Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari, you’ll be astonished to discover the diverse range of wildlife that lives in such close proximity to the city.
E-biking is becoming increasingly popular, thanks to Auckland’s growing network of cycle lanes. Book a guided tour or create your own itinerary with an app or a map. If you’re more confident on two legs than two wheels, walking tours are also an excellent way to find your feet.
Heading further afield? Hire a car and set a course for the foodie nirvana of Matakana. Just an hours drive north of the city centre, it’s famous for fine wine, fabulous food, markets, restaurants and vineyards, not to mention miles of pristine white sand beaches. It’s also big on sculpture with Brick Bay Sculpture Trail and Sculptureum both turning heads. Not far from Matakana is the Goat Island Marine Reserve which is like an aquarium in nature. One of the country’s most accessible snorkel spots, the sea life here is astonishing. If you’re not keen to swim, enjoy the fish from a glass-bottom boat or by hiring a see-through kayak.
Or, if you'd like to spend the day touring Auckland with a highly knowledgeable guide and see dense rainforests, volcanic black sand beaches and discover historical monuments and artefacts, go with TIME Unlimited Tours. And to finish the day, top it off with a stop at Giapo, where ice cream is elevated to an artform and a science, and where innovative flavours and outlandish garnishes are built to perfection.