Surfing Raglan
Sweet and salty little Raglan is surfing central, with serious waxheads heading to Manu Bay, rumoured to have the world’s longest left-hand break. Mere mortals are best kicking things off at beautiful Ngarunui (raglan23.co.nz), with less forbidding waves and lifeguard patrol (October to April). Hang ten with the friendly Raglan Surfing School (raglansurfingschool.co.nz), where they pride themselves on getting 95% of first-timers standing during their lesson. The beach is also great for swimming and sunsets.
Sailing Auckland
Join professional sailors on a real America’s Cup yacht and go racing around Auckland’s scenic Waitemata Harbour (exploregroup.co.nz). Go head to head with another crew and grind, tack and gybe your way on the windward course with the Auckland city skyline as your backdrop. Everyone gets a go at taking the helm, although landlubbers have the option of just shooting the breeze, sitting back and watching your teammates do all the hard work.