Hidden Gems - Auckland

Auckland is quite the dame, but with such a contemporary CBD, she defies her age. Sparkling harbours give way to pretty seaside villages and further afield, wild coastlines and native bush. Enjoy a world-class food scene, shopping for miles and neighbouring islands offering pure escapism.

Auckland is an excellent base for road tripping adventures but is, of course, a destination in itself.

The arts, cultural and civic heart of Auckland is Aotea Arts Quarter and it’s where you’ll find an incredible mix of artistic diversity, including the grand Civic Theatre and nearby Auckland Art Gallery.

The latest, and flashiest, addition to Auckland downtown is Commercial Bay, a three-storey emporium packed with over 100 retailers and a 700-seater food market, but don’t let its glitz distract you from other pockets of beauty such as Wynyard Quarter and Britomart.

Outside of the CBD, every neighbourhood has something to delight, from seaside villages to bustling inner suburbs and the west coast’s wild surf beaches. Experience global cuisine, colourful markets and take a sip of wine, beer and well-brewed coffee. Auckland is also a haven for walkers with its volcanoes and 27 regional parks to explore. Among them are Ambury, complete with farm park, beautiful beaches at Tāwharanui and the Waitākere Ranges, just 28km from the CBD and flush with rainforest and waterfalls.

Sailing on the Haparanda

Chris McLennan

WE LOVE YOU NEW ZEALAND - HIDDEN GEMS

• Sand dunes at Lake Wainamu, Bethells Beach, West Auckland – the water is clean, clear and swimmable, and it’s fun (and free!) to slide down the sand dunes on a boogie board.

• Sculptureum, Matakana, Rodney – pink snails, giant Lego and immaculate gardens. This glorious estate hosts bold sculptures in jaw-dropping grounds.

Sculptureum, Matakana

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• Vector Wero Whitewater Park, Manukau, South Auckland – home to the world’s highest artificial rafted waterfall and ideal for families.

• Tiritiri Matangi Island, Hauraki Gulf Islands – with zero predators, the birdlife survives and thrives. Book a 75-minute ferry from downtown Auckland to this remote paradise.

Auckland city

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Looking for a place to stay? Find a huge range of accommodation options, including discounts for AA Members, at travel.aa.co.nz