Auckland, Coromandel and Bay of Plenty
Best time to be there
Summer on the north island (December to February) is ideal for outdoor pursuits with mild temperatures and hours of sunshine. Venture to the numerous ski slopes and warm up close to a crackling fire during the winter months in June to August.
Fly to
Auckland (Air New Zealand, Air Tahiti Nui, daily)
flying time
26 hours, one stop
time difference
GMT +12 hours
Visas
Not required for UK passport holders
Health Requirements
Yellow Fever certificate if arriving from an endemic area
Itineraries
Classic New Zealand
Classic New Zealand highlights * Cruise Auckland harbour * Explore the town of Rotunda * Experience Maori culture on Mokoia Island Read more ...
Follow the Spirit of the Maori
Follow the Spirit of the Maori highlights * Helicopter excursion to White Island * Mokoia Island Read more ...
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Auckland is the centre of commerce and industry, and is perhaps the most vibrant, bustling and multicultural city in New Zealand. The city's landscape is dominated by volcanic hills, twin harbours (Waitemata on the Pacific Ocean and Manukau on the Tasman Sea), bays, beaches and islands. Its nickname as the "City of Sails" is apt, Auckland has more boats per capita than anywhere else in the world. Highlights include the America's Cup sailing, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, and the Sky Tower - an Auckland icon and the tallest tower in the Southern Hemisphere at 328 metres (1076 feet) high.
A short distance from Auckland take time to explore Waiheke Island. Enjoy Waiheke's award-winning wines and locally produced gourmet delights, along with gardens and galleries, music and poetry, native birds and bush walks, in any combination.
Explore rugged rainforest-clad gorges and Pohutukawa-fringed beaches - such as Catherdral Cove - in a region rich in history and home to a thriving population of artists and craftspeople. With 400 kilometres of coastline, The Coromandel is the perfect place for a beach-hopping holiday. Rustic laid back and unspoilt, this is a place where you can fully relax. Charter a boat in Mercury Bay, go mountain biking or explore gold rush history, and then recharge at a sophisticated restaurant; this is the perfect place to unwind.
The Bay of Plenty was named by Captain Cook in the 18th Century and the moniker remains apt. Renowned for its bounty of produce - including the famous kiwifruit - the region's abundant sunshine and mild climate are the perfect complement to the long arc of its coastline. Unwind and enjoy the sunshine in a stunning coastal playground offering a myriad of outdoor activities, endless beaches and bountiful countryside. As the sun sets, bars and restaurants light up along the ocean promenade at Mount Maunganui.
Suggested Auckland, Coromandel and Bay of Plenty Accommodation
Aachen House
This grand building has been restored with all modern amenities but keeping the historic atmosphere and ambience. Suites are large, with many opening out onto patios and balconies. Each...
Langham Hotel
Within walking distance of Auckland's vibrant waterfront and shopping areas, The Langham exudes classical elegance. Enjoy a meal at Partingtons, the hotel's award-winning...
Mollies
Mollies is a luxury boutique property hidden in the heart of Auckland. A member of 'Small Luxury Hotels' this charming gem offers 14 magnificently appointed suites with private terraces overlooking...
The Boatshed
Located just 35 minutes by fast ferry or 10 minutes by helicopter from Auckland, The Boatshed is a luxury designed boutique property on Waiheke Island. With all day dining available...
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Guest Testimonial
We appreciated knowing the travel specialist (Katie Sims) from the previous A&K holiday. The hotels in Grenada and Cordoba were excellent.
The Renfe trains from Grenada to Malaga were very impressive. On time, comfortable and fast. 
- JS, Wirral
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A&K Philanthropy
Kiwi Encounter
Offers the opportunity to sponsor the hatching and raising of kiwi chicks and tour the facility that is helping to increase the numbers of this beloved and endangered icon.
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