How to explore the North Island from the centre of Auckland

Fly into Auckland, New Zealand’s trendy harbour city, and you will enjoy a gateway to New Zealand’s incredible North Island. Here we have picked our favourite side trips from Auckland, including short day trips to fascinating islands, as well as volcanic landscapes that will transport you to another world. Brightsun Travel has cheap air tickets to Auckland all year round so that you can experience everything that New Zealand has to offer this holiday.

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is Auckland’s most popular island escape, and for good reason. From Auckland you can travel to the beautiful Waiheke Island in just 40 minutes by ferry, and laze on sandy beaches whilst gazing at surrounding oceans full of dolphins and whales.

Goat Island Marine Reserve

Just north of Auckland is the Goat Island Marine Reserve, one of New Zealand’s first marine reserves, covering over 500 hectares of aquatic area, where you can spot a variety of fish swimming in shallow waters. Alternatively, you can dive around Goat Island itself and spot orcas and bottle-nosed dolphins.

Cable Bay Vineyards

Even though the Hauraki Gulf surrounding Auckland has several islands to choose from, none offer the world-class vineyards you’ll find on Waiheke Island. Head to Cable Bay Vineyards and you could sip a glass of viognier while enjoying breathtaking views of the Hauraki Gulf.

Bay of Islands

From Auckland you can easily reach the impressive Bay of Islands, boasting 150 islands to explore, with turquoise waters full of majestic orcas. But it’s the area’s beaches, that remain largely untouched, that are the highlight of a trip here for many.

Bay of Plenty

Within easy reach of Auckland is the Bay of Plenty, one of New Zealand’s sunniest places, where you will find the country’s most active volcano on White Island, a place where volcanoes have smoked continuously for centuries, plus plenty of white sandy beaches.

Waitakere Ranges Regional Park

A fantastic day trip from Auckland is a trip to the beautiful Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, a true wilderness, with ancient patches of kauri forests and gorgeous beaches overlooking the Tasman Sea. There are over 250 kilometres of walking trails in the park, taking you past spectacular scenery.

Muriwai Beach

Head to Muriwai Beach and not only will you discover a dramatic coastline of rugged black-sand beaches, but also the famous Takapu Refuge gannet colony. A trip here is a perfect day out for birdwatchers, hikers and adrenaline seekers alike, with bush trails and hand gliding opportunities galore.

Flights & Airlines

Brightsun Travel has a range of Auckland flights from UK, including flights with Air New Zealand from London, where you can choose between comfortable Economy seats that offer flexible seating options for families and small groups, and premium flying experiences with a range of complimentary services. Premium Economy passengers receive premium check-in and priority boarding and baggage, whilst Business Premier passengers can relax in Air New Zealand global lounges and enjoy in flight meals designed by a Consultant Chef.

Author Bio:

Brightsun Travel can arrange all of your travel needs, from flights, short haul to long haul holidays, world tours and memorable life adventures! For more information on Auckland flights from UK, please visit us at brightsun.co.uk

Brightsun Travel has a wide range of cheap airfares to Far East so that you can take a city break with a difference this holiday.