Top 10 Things to Do in Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand's largest and most cosmopolitan city, blends a modern buzz with old-world charm. Built around three harbours and dotted with dormant volcanoes, the "City of Sails" is a relaxed, water-laced introduction to the country. Here are ten of the best things to do.

Ten Auckland highlights

• Climb a volcano — Mount Eden offers panoramic views from its crater rim.
• Ferry to Waiheke Island — 35 minutes to vineyards, restaurants and beaches.
• Hit the beaches — Mission Bay, Takapuna and wild west-coast Piha.
• Visit Tiritiri Matangi — an open wildlife sanctuary for rare native birds.
• Take in the Sky Tower — New Zealand's tallest structure at 328m, with revolving dining, a glass-floor SkyWalk and the SkyJump.
• Explore the Viaduct & Wynyard Quarter — waterfront dining and bars.
• See Māori culture — at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
• Walk the Coast to Coast — across the isthmus, harbour to harbour.
• Day-trip to the wine country — Matakana and the Kumeu vineyards.
• Get on the water — sailing is woven into the city's DNA.

See Auckland with Swain

Swain Destinations arranges private touring, island experiences and the city's finest hotels within tailor-made New Zealand journeys.