Auckland, New Zealand
As both the largest city in New Zealand and its international air-travel hub, Auckland is one of the best places to go in New Zealand. Many international flights arrive in New Zealand through Auckland Airport, which makes it an ideal city from which to start your exploration of New Zealand.
Spend at least a day or two in Auckland—named one of the top 10 cities in the world by Lonely Planet—before venturing further afield in New Zealand. Here are our suggestions for what to see and do in Auckland:
Get some culture by visiting one of the many museums in Auckland, such as the Auckland Art Gallery. The Auckland Art Gallery is the largest art institution in New Zealand, featuring more than 15,000 works of historic, modern, and contemporary art.
If the weather is nice, take a stroll through the 185-acre Auckland Domain park. If you're visiting on a Saturday, include a stop at the nearby Parnell Farmers' Market, which sells fresh produce in the morning.
Auckland is also home to a host of multicultural bars and restaurants serving up all types of cuisine, so be sure to dine in downtown Auckland (and go out for a cocktail or two to check out the nightlife).
If you're looking for adventure activities in Auckland, consider the Auckland Bridge Climb. And if you're really brave, try the Auckland Bridge bungee jump.
If you're looking for guided trips in Auckland, book an Auckland City Tour or an America's Cup sailing experience on Waitemata Harbour.