Luxury holidays in Auckland

When to go

The warmer months (November to April) are perfect for enjoying life outdoors, though you should avoid the weeks after Christmas when NZ kids are on school holiday. June to August is the winter high season for ski bunnies on the South Island, so factor in a few days in Auckland to get an urban fix.

Getting there

• Planes

  Auckland Airport (www.aucklandairport.co.nz) is located 21 kilometres south of the city.

• Boats

  Ferries (www.fullers.co.nz) connect with the North Shore, Hauraki Gulf islands and Half Moon Bay near Howick. The trip to Waiheke Island’s Matiatia Wharf takes 35 minutes, or catch a SeaLink car ferry (www.sealink.co.nz), a 45-minute ride to Kennedy Point.

• Trains

  Only one train, the Overlander, operates out of Auckland, running daily to Wellington via Hamilton and Palmerston North (www.tranzscenic.co.nz).

• Automobiles

  If you’re just visiting as a stopover, you won’t need a car, but if you intend to do some exploring, wheels are a must.

• Taxis

  Hail one or head to a rank. If you’re travelling from your hotel or a restaurant, ask the concierge or maitre d’ to call one for you (particularly if it’s cold!). They’re not the cheapest way to get around the city but definitely one of the easiest. Auckland Co-Op Taxis (+64 9-300 3000; www.cooptaxi.co.nz) is a good bet.