There’s something for every time of year, and the city is just the gateway
As beautiful as Auckland is, remember if you’re planning a trip there that there’s no need to stay in the city the whole time — it’s surrounded by some of New Zealand’s most stunning getaways. From wineries to hiking trails, there’s something for every season that will spark your sense of discovery.
SUMMER
North Island summers positively sparkle. Everywhere feels warm and welcoming in summer, beaches are full of fun and the food somehow tastes even more delicious.
One of New Zealand’s favorite holiday spots, the expansive Coromandel Peninsula is famous for its golden beaches and rugged coastline. The Karangahake Gorge, which was voted one of the “101 Must Do’s“ for Kiwis, offers hiking trails of varying intensity, or you can walk to Cathedral Cove on the edge of Mercury Bay for magical natural views. Along the way, be sure to stop in at the Mercury Bay Estate Vineyard, or Pepper Tree Restaurant and Bar to sate your appetite.
The Coromandel Peninsula is a 2.5-hour drive from Auckland.
Another favorite summer holiday spot for Kiwis, the Bay of Islands is sometimes referred to as “the Winterless North.” With 150 islands showcasing the region’s incredible natural beauty, you can spend your day kayaking, paddleboarding, diving, or whale watching. The artisan produce on offer will make it hard not to extend your stay. Kerikeri boasts a number of renowned food destinations, from vineyard and restaurant Ake Ake
to farmer’s market Old Packhouse Market — and as we all know, the food just tastes better on holiday.
The Bay of Islands is a 4-hour drive or 50-minute flight from Auckland.
FALL
With the temperatures and the summer buzz cooling down, fall is the time to connect with new parts of the country — and to make the best of the excellent food that comes with the harvest season.
With its multiple vineyards, restaurants, and cultural amenities, Waiheke Island offers a bit of everything. It’s a foodie destination in its own right, and after you’ve eaten, you can pop into Artisphere gallery and the Waiheke Community Art Gallery, or venture out on one of the stunning walking trails to explore the scenery. Be sure to keep an eye out for local events and happenings too.
Waiheke Island is a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland.
Despite its proximity, Devonport really feels like its own world. Catch a ferry and enjoy feeling like a tourist as you look through the boutiques, cafes, and restaurants dotted around the village. Climb (or catch a ride) to the top of Mount Victoria, the tallest volcanic cone on the North Shore, and enjoy the views of the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland City, or head down to the beach for crepes and galettes at French restaurant Chateaubriant.
Devonport is a 12-minute ferry ride from Auckland.
WINTER
Winter is all about hot springs, hearty food, and an extra glass of wine and piece of cheese — but make sure you rug up warm!
An iconic, but slightly longer road trip, Te Puia Rotorua’s bubbling mud pools are a tourist staple — and much more pleasurable than they might sound. Iconic restaurant Pātaka Kai is the perfect place to stop in after you’ve warmed up. Close by is the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, where you can learn about traditional art practices.
Te Puia Rotorua is a 3-hour drive from Auckland.
The stunning Matakana Coast is blessed with moderate winters, though you should bring your raincoat as it can be wet. The Bridgehouse and Rusty Pelican serve up warming winter fare, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery year round via the coastal trails at Tāwharanui. The Vintry
offers enough wine and liquor to keep the cold at bay, and you can round off the evening with a trip to Matakana Cinemas.
The Matakana Coast is a 1-hour drive from Auckland.
SPRING
Make the best of the warming weather, and do something spontaneous — spring is the perfect time to head outdoors and have an adventure.
After watching the Lord of the Rings movies over winter, make a spring trip to Hobbiton Village and immerse yourself in the iconic, picturesque filming locations of the films. After you’ve explored the Shire, stop in at the Green Dragon Inn for a brew and soak up the atmosphere. Some tours also include a trip to the magical Waitomo caves to see glow worms. The name comes from the Maori words wai (“water”) and tomo (“hole”), and this spot has welcomed many famous guests, including actors from the film trilogy.
Hobbiton Village is a 2-hour drive from Auckland.
Raglan — Boasting renowned surfing beaches — the picturesque Manu Bay is a local favorite — coastal Raglan is a creative little outpost with excellent coffee. Adventurous types will enjoy joining the locals in mountain biking, canoeing, rock climbing, or kayaking around the Limestone Coast, while creative types might prefer to time their visit for the Raglan Arts Weekend.
Raglan is a 2-hour drive from Auckland.
