This week we’re heading to Auckland, the vibrant waterfront city that serves as the gateway to New Zealand. Built around two natural harbors and surrounded by volcanic landscapes, beaches, and islands, Auckland blends city energy with incredible access to nature.

This is a great place if you want to experience a unique and welcoming culture. The language and mythology are very interesting and you’ll notice how important are the performing arts. Singing, dancing, and poetry are all present. Each is inspiring in its own way.

Knowledge and history are passed down through the arts and Māori culture has made its way into the print and film industry. You can learn about many famous Māori novelists and actors.

Also, sporting culture is big there and nothing is bigger than the All Blacks, New Zealand’s national rugby team. We did not get a chance to see a haka live but it’s worth checking out. This is a traditional dance and chant with which the team challenges opponents before the match.

In addition to the history of the people, Auckland’s location is also fascinating.

The entire city sits on the Auckland volcanic field. It includes more than 50 dormant volcanoes scattered throughout the region. Many of them now form green hills, parks, and scenic viewpoints. These volcanic cones helped shape the city’s landscape and provide some of the best views in the region.

It’s fascinating to learn about how the city came to be, especially if you are into history and science. Search it up before you go for a better experience.

One of the city’s most recognizable landmarks is the Sky Tower. At 1,000 feet tall, it offers panoramic views across the skyline, harbors, and surrounding islands. If you enjoy a bit of adrenaline, visitors can even walk along the outside ledge or try the tower’s controlled jump experience.

Just a short ferry ride away is Waiheke Island, known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and award winning wineries. Many travelers spend the day wine tasting, biking between vineyards, or simply enjoying lunch overlooking the water.

Another favorite excursion is Rangitoto Island, a volcanic island that rises dramatically from the harbor. The hike to the summit passes through lava fields and native forest, and the views from the top stretch across the Hauraki Gulf.

For a deeper look at the country’s culture and history, the Auckland War Memorial Museum offers powerful exhibits on Māori heritage, New Zealand’s history, and the natural environment of the region.

Outdoor enthusiasts often head west to Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, where lush rainforest trails lead to waterfalls and dramatic black sand beaches along the Tasman Sea.

Closer to the city center, hiking up Mount Eden provides one of the best views of the skyline. The massive volcanic crater at the summit is a reminder that Auckland sits on a field of dormant volcanoes.

One of the most beautiful green spaces in the city is Cornwall Park. This expansive park surrounds the volcanic cone known as Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill.

Walking trails wind through open fields where sheep graze beneath the skyline, and the summit offers sweeping views across the city and harbor. It is one of the best places to experience Auckland’s unique mix of nature, history, and volcanic geography.

Auckland is the kind of place where a city break can quickly turn into an island adventure. And sometimes the best trips are the ones that take you to the far side of the world.

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Getting there requires a bit of planning. Most international travelers arrive through Auckland Airport (AKL), with common flight connections from Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Dallas. The journey is long, but many travelers say the moment you step outside and feel the fresh coastal air, it is worth every hour.

Rydges Auckland - where we stayed, right by the Sky Tower

The Grand by SkyCity - 11 restaurants onsite

Swiss-Belsuites Victoria Park Auckland - we love aparthotels (apartment-style hotel)

Onetangi Forrest Chalet - entire home on Waiheke Island

Circular Bay - entire home on Waiheke Island

New Zealand’s food scene is also worth exploring. A traditional Māori meal called Hangi is slow cooked underground with heated stones, creating incredibly tender meats and vegetables. Along the coast, many visitors enjoy fresh Fish and chips by the water, locally harvested Green-lipped mussels, and the famous dessert Pavlova, a crisp meringue topped with cream and fruit.

If you visit, pack comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing coastal weather, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket. Auckland’s best experiences often involve being outside, whether you are exploring a volcanic summit, boarding a ferry, or relaxing on the beach.

Here are a few of our affiliate links to help you when in Auckland. It’s no extra cost to you and helps us keep this email free for everyone. 😀

See you next week,

Trisha & Bob