NORTH AUCKLAND

It’s another world over the bridge. Home to rolling vineyards; boat-speckled beaches and charming village-scapes, discover the inviting seaside suburbs of the North Shore and then drive one-hour north to the old-world enclave of Matakana.

DEVONPORT

Absorbing glitzy skyline views from its sleepy, coastal enclave, this picture-perfect village has a beach, boutique stores, Victorian buildings and an elegant main street with retro cinema, pubs and master chocolatier, Devonport Chocolates.

Devonport, North Auckland

TE ARA TAHUNA ESTUARY PATHWAY

Discover Ōrewa, a bonny seaside town 40km north of central Auckland with a spectacular beach. Walk or ride this 7.6km estuaryfronting track, passing parks, cafés and the Estuary Arts Centre.

TAKAPUNA

Everyone loves Takapuna, the gentrified seaside town with a golden beach, myriad of top-notch eateries, a pristine high street, playgrounds and friendly locals.

Tok Tok Kitchen, Takapuna © iconic Eats

PUHOI

Tickling Puhoi River (with canoe hire, too), Puhoi was founded by Bohemian settlers. Discover quaint tearooms, a general store, historic pub, the exceptional Puhoi Valley Café & Cheese Store and a farmers’ market held every last Sunday of the month.

Puhoi Countryside © Getty Images