Other Activities

Autumn in New Zealand

The New Zealand autumn (or fall) season spans the months of March through May and while these months are undoubtedly cooler the country still experiences some fabulous weather and many beaches are still warm enough for swimming through to April.

The native New Zealand flora is evergreen however there are plenty of introduced species of deciduous trees which make for beautiful and ever-changing displays of colour throughout the autumn months. The Hawkes Bay and central Otago regions in particular are known for their beauty at this time of the year.

Day Trips

There are a plethora of day trips available throughout the Auckland region and beyond which cater to every taste and budget. Below you will find a variety of popular day trips which you may like to experience during your time in New Zealand.

Coast to Coast Walk
If you enjoy outdoor activities and want to get a glimpse of some of New Zealand's famous scenery, the Coast to Coast Walk is a must. The walk will take you through some of Auckland's key suburbs revealing many of our finest natural and urban heritage areas along the way. Panoramic views across the harbour will give you an insight into our love of boating and a unique look at some of the islands of the Hauraki Gulf.

Goat Island
Declared New Zealand's first marine reserve in 1975, Goat Island has since become home to a vast array of aquatic life and in warm weather snorkellers flock to the area. A glass bottomed boat allows visitors to view the coral, fish, plants and crustaceans without getting wet and it is a superb location for snorkelling and scuba diving.

Matakana Market
Perhaps the best market in the Auckland region, the Matakana Market is not to be missed. Famous for its variety of rich produce, boutique foods, fine wines and live music it is definitely worth the short trip north of Auckland. The market is run every Saturday from 9am-1pm.

Waiheke Island
While only a 45 minute ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island transports you into another world. This lush island, with a permanent population of only 8000 people, boasts vineyards a-plenty, fine dining restaurants, boutique shops, art galleries, luxury accommodation, outdoor activities and a perfect chance to relax and unwind without straying too far from the hub New Zealand's largest city.

Tiritiri Matangi
Tiritiri Matangi is an island in the Hauraki Gulf and is one of the world's most successful conservation projects. All pests have been completely eradicated from the island, full regeneration of native flora has been embraced and strict conservation rules have seen Tiritiri Matangi become a sanctuary for some of New Zealand's rarest species of birds.

Devonport
A fifteen minute ferry ride from the centre of Auckland will see you taken to the seaside village of Devonport. Home to some of Auckland's most beautiful beaches this historical village is the ideal place to take a seaside stroll, visit two of Auckland's most recognisable volcanoes or browse an eclectic range of shops. A historical walk reveals some of Devonport's most significant heritage sites or you could just enjoy a café lunch by the sea.

Rangitoto
Dominating the Hauraki Gulf, Rangitoto Island is the region's youngest and most unchanged volcano. Thought to have erupted around 600 years ago, Rangitoto now lies dormant and visitors travel by ferry to experience the beauty of this famous botanical gem. A walk up to the peak is well worth the effort to take in the breathtaking views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf or take a ride on the train to see some of the island's most significant features.

Simunovich Olive Estate
This vast estate is New Zealand's largest privately owned olive growing estate and a visit here is the ideal opportunity to stock up on fine olive oils and skincare products. Te estate also boasts ‘Bracu' one of Auckland's most prestigious fine-dining restaurants.

Muriwai Gannet Colony
Take a one hour drive from Auckland to Muriwai Beach on the West Coast and visit the gannet colony. Home to around 1200 gannets, a large viewing platform gets you up close and personal with the birds and there is plenty of information available to help you learn more the gannets and their environment. Gannets nest at Muriwai from August through to March each year.

Agrodome
A three hour drive south of Auckland, the Agrodome in Rotorua has become one of New Zealand's best loved attractions. Experience a live sheep shearing show, enjoy a farm tour or, for the more adventurous, try the helicopter rides, bungy jump, freefall, jet boat or zorb.

Waitomo Caves
New Zealand's most famous caves provide a range of activities and there is bound to be something to suit every visitor. Take a leaisurely walk through the caves and find out about the history of the area, view the spectacular glow worm displays and learn about the geological significance of the caves. If you're an adrenaline junkie, some of Waitomo's more extreme adventures will see you squeezing through tight cracks far below the ground, flying through caves along a wire, floating through pitch black rivers and climbing up underground waterfalls. A visit to Waitomo Caves is bound to be a highlight of your trip to New Zealand.

Entertainment

Stuck for what to do? This guide will lead you to some of the best entertainment spots in Auckland. Whether it's during the day or you're looking for a great night out these entertainment options are sure to fit the bill.

Casino
There is always plenty happening at Auckland's Sky City Casino. Have a flutter on the roulette tables, try your hand at blackjack or even settle in for a poker game. There are a multitude of bars and restaurants available and plenty of live entertainment options to choose from.

Eating Out
Auckland is the home of a fantastic range of cuisine options and whatever your budget or taste you are bound to find something to suit. Visit www.eatout.co.nz to choose from hundreds of dining options.

Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World
Situated in Orakei overlooking Devonport and the Hauraki Gulf, Kelly Tarlton's is a world class visitor attraction first opened by Kiwi adventurer Kelly Tarlton in 1985 the centre boasts an impressive aquarium, stingray display, replica of explorer Robert Scott's Antarctic hut and a superb encounter with the attraction's colony of 80 penguins.

Rainbow's End
With a host of great rides and shows, New Zealand's largest theme park offers a thrilling day out for all. Take a ride on the fear fall, brave the rollercoaster or make a splash on the log ride. Fun for kids and adults alike, Rainbow's End is a great option for a family activity.

Culture

Auckland embraces the arts and culture and hosts a rich array of festivals, shows and expos all year around. The busiest and most multicultural city in New Zealand, Auckland is also the largest Polynesian city in the world and this is reflected in many cultural events. Below is a taste of some cultural activities you may want to experience during your time in New Zealand.

Music in Parks
Running for 18 years, Music in Parks is a hugely popular free event which allows locals and visitors alike to embrace the eclectic range of music Auckland has to offer. In 2011 Music in Parks will run from January to March and feature 38 concerts.

Auckland Lantern Festival
This festival truly embraces Auckland's Asian population. It is one of Auckland's most popular events and continues to grow each year as people flock to experience the Chinese New Year celebrations and view the bright and creative lantern displays by night.

BMW Auckland Regatta
Auckland is known as the ‘City of Sails' and the people can't get enough of boating. The BMW Auckland Regatta takes place at the end of February and sees yachties fighting it out on the water to become national and regatta champions.

Mission Bay Jazz and Blues Street Festival
An ideal way to farewell summer, this jazz festival attracts 30 000 visitors each year. With more than 20 international bands and acts performing on street, stage and beach, the waterfront becomes a sea of dining, dancing and celebrating and is the perfect opportunity to embrace the Auckland festival atmosphere.

Trout Fishing
If you enjoy freshwater fishing the Auckland and Waikato regions have plenty of trout-filled lakes to choose from. A number of organisations provide fishing day trips which are about a 4 hour drive south of Auckland.