Off-the-Beaten Path

Visit Piha Beach - Explore the rugged beauty of Piha Beach, located just 45 minutes from Auckland. Lush rainforests and dramatic cliffs surround this black sand beach, offering excellent surfing opportunities and stunning sunsets.

Rangitoto Island Adventure - Embark on a day trip to Rangitoto Island, a volcanic wonderland. Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the city and harbor, then explore lava caves and unique flora and fauna along the walking trails.

Kitekite Falls and Fairy Falls - Embark on a scenic hike to Kitekite Falls and Fairy Falls in the Waitakere Ranges. These enchanting waterfalls are nestled in lush rainforests, providing a serene and refreshing escape from the city.

Luxurious Escape

Waiheke Island Winery Tour - Take a ferry to Waiheke Island, known for its world-class wineries. Indulge in a private wine-tasting tour, and savor award-winning vintages paired with gourmet local cuisine, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the island's vineyards and coastline.

Heli-tour to Matakana - Treat yourself to a helicopter tour of Matakana, a picturesque region known for its vineyards and artisanal food. Enjoy a private wine tasting and indulge in a gourmet lunch amid the beautiful countryside.

Luxury Yacht Cruise on the Waitemata Harbour - Charter a private yacht, and set sail on the sparkling waters of Waitemata Harbour. Experience Auckland's skyline from the water, relax in style and enjoy an onboard gourmet dining experience.

Culinary Recommendations

Dining at Ponsonby Central - Experience Auckland's foodie culture by visiting Ponsonby Central, a trendy dining precinct. Sample a wide array of international cuisines, boutique cafes and artisanal treats, all housed in a charming historical building.

Britomart's Street Eats - Wander through Britomart, a vibrant precinct known for its street food stalls and pop-up eateries. Taste a variety of international flavors, from mouthwatering dumplings to gourmet burgers, all amid the lively atmosphere of this urban hub.

Day Trips

Waiheke Island Day Trip - Take a ferry from downtown Auckland to Waiheke Island, a picturesque haven known for its vineyards, beaches, and stunning landscapes. Explore the island's boutique wineries, enjoy wine tastings and savor a gourmet lunch amid the vineyards. Afterwards, relax on one of the island's beautiful beaches or hike along scenic coastal trails for breathtaking views.

Rotoroa Island Nature Escape - Embark on a day trip to Rotoroa Island, a tranquil sanctuary just a short ferry ride away from Auckland. This predator-free island is a haven for native wildlife and offers picturesque walking trails through native bush. You can also visit the historic buildings and museums, learn about the island's rich history, and enjoy a peaceful picnic by the shoreline.

Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves Excursion - Experience the magic of Middle-earth with a day trip to Hobbiton, the famous movie set from "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" trilogies. After a tour of Hobbiton's enchanting landscapes and hobbit holes, head to Waitomo Caves to explore the mesmerizing glowworm caves on a boat tour. This full-day adventure will immerse you in the beauty of both natural wonders and cinematic fantasy.

Breakfast

Federal Delicatessen - Located in the heart of Auckland on Federal Street, Federal Delicatessen offers a fantastic breakfast experience with a New York-inspired menu. From classic bagels with smoked salmon to indulgent pancakes and eggs benedict, this eatery serves hearty breakfast delights in a chic atmosphere.

Ozone Coffee Roasters - Situated in the vibrant suburb of Grey Lynn, Ozone Coffee Roasters is a popular spot for coffee enthusiasts and foodies alike. Besides serving expertly crafted coffee, their breakfast menu features delicious options like avocado toast with feta and dukkah, buttermilk pancakes with berries, and a range of scrumptious brunch plates with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Ortolana - Nestled in the enchanting courtyard of Britomart, Ortolana is a charming eatery known for its elegant ambiance and farm-to-table approach. Their breakfast menu highlights seasonal and locally-sourced produce, offering dishes like organic porridge with caramelized banana, ricotta hotcakes with berry compote, and nourishing breakfast bowls to start your day on a wholesome note.

Lunch

Elliott Stables - Located in the heart of the city on Elliott Street, Elliott Stables is a unique dining destination featuring a variety of international cuisines under one roof. From Japanese sushi to Italian pizza, Thai curries to French pastries, this food hall-style venue offers something for everyone, making it an excellent spot for a diverse and satisfying lunch experience.

The Garden Shed - For an exceptional lunch experience in Auckland, head to "The Garden Shed," a charming eatery nestled in the suburb of Mt Eden. With its whimsical garden-themed decor and relaxed ambiance, it offers a delightful setting to enjoy a delicious meal. The menu features a variety of gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and mouthwatering burgers, all made with locally sourced ingredients, making it a perfect spot for a satisfying and flavorsome lunch.

Culprit - For a memorable lunch in Auckland, try "Culprit" in the bustling downtown area. This innovative eatery offers a unique shared dining experience with an array of small plates meant to be passed around the table, allowing you to savor a variety of flavors. With its modern and chic atmosphere, Culprit promises a delightful culinary adventure that showcases the best of New Zealand's fresh and seasonal produce.

Dinner

Depot - Located on Federal Street, Depot is a popular restaurant known for its fresh and innovative approach to New Zealand cuisine. Helmed by renowned chef Al Brown, this eatery focuses on serving high-quality seafood, oysters, and other local delicacies in a relaxed and buzzing atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a memorable dinner experience.

The Grove - Situated on Wyndham Street, The Grove is an elegant fine-dining restaurant offering a sophisticated culinary journey. Led by award-winning chef Ben Bayly, the restaurant showcases contemporary New Zealand cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. With an extensive wine list and impeccable service, The Grove provides a refined dining experience perfect for special occasions.

Sidart - For an unforgettable dinner in Auckland, I highly recommend "Sidart," an award-winning restaurant located in Ponsonby. Led by renowned chef Sid Sahrawat, the restaurant offers a refined and innovative dining experience with a focus on modern Indian and Southeast Asian flavors. Prepare to be amazed by the artistry of each meticulously crafted dish and indulge in an exceptional culinary journey that celebrates the finest ingredients and culinary techniques.