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Auckland (Tāmaki Makaurau) may sit right next door to Australia's east coast, but it's often overlooked when planning an international escape. If you're craving a true reset—without the price tag or jet lag—it might just be the perfect place.

New Zealand offers an array of hotspots to choose from, but Auckland is stepping into the limelight with chic new openings and creative, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

From intimate underground Japanese listening bars to coastal wineries where you can (literally) zipline to the cellar door, we've curated a succinct yet heady list of reasons that Auckland is a destination worth landing for. A melting pot of creativity, rich culture, and otherworldly natural splendour—just a short flight away.

If you're a wine lover and unfamiliar with Waiheke Island, it's time you got acquainted. Home to over 30 boutique wineries, more than 40 kilometres of beaches, art, produce, and some of the country's most breathtaking, rugged vistas. From pristine, golden beaches—like Oneroa, Onetangi, and Palm Beach—to blissful bike rides around the island and award-winning gastronomy, Waiheke is a holiday haven brimming with natural splendour. Embark on a jam-packed day trip or stay for a few days to explore—and sip—everything the island has to offer.

But it's also about the journey, not just the destination, right? Luckily, there's an array of vessels ready to level up your 40-minute voyage across the Hauraki Gulf. Seeking a pioneering thrill? Step aboard Fuller360's Kermadec, the world's first state-of-the-art electric hydrofoiling ferry. Its innovative hydrofoil technology allows you to glide above the waves while soaking up panoramic views of Auckland city's skyline and Harbour Bridge, in an experience that's equal parts sustainable and premium.

If cruising or sailing atop the water—not gliding above it—sounds more your speed, jump aboard one of Explore Group's premium cruises or sailing experiences. There's an array of different vessels in the fleet, but all allow you to either kick back in comfort, or get behind the helm—you can even relish a rare opportunity to participate as crew on an actual America's Cup yacht.

One of Waiheke Island's most unique experiences soars above its wineries and lush, ancient native rainforest. Zip through the treetops at your own pace, soaking up the serene surroundings with EcoZip Adventures or Man O' War's Forest Flight—a zipline journey spanning three 200-metre ziplines and scenic boardwalks, ending at Man O' War winery for an exceptional wine tasting and hearty seaside meal. Expect gourmet dishes like cured Akaroa salmon with burnt Zany Zeus labneh, crisp apple, gin pickled cucumber, and chardonnay dressing, and 10 Knots Smokehouse fish pâté, served with pickled red onion and pickled cucumber—washed down with a Flagship Flight of four signature Man O' War wines.

When it comes to vibey watering holes and buzzworthy openings, Auckland's list is only getting longer. From the beloved New York-style speakeasy Caretaker to the effortlessly refined Euro-inspired restaurant Bistro Sainé, the city's food and drinks scene is flaunting its confidence.

But when the lights dim and the city starts to wind down, the real magic begins underground. Two basement newcomers worth descending for? Kemuri Hi-Fi and Ground Wine Bar.

Tucked away in the basement at 1 Queen Street is the meticulously designed and intimate Japanese vinyl bar, Kemuri Hi-Fi. Drawing inspiration from Japan, America, and the UK, co-owners Jason Clarkand Vishal Vasan are bringing their worldly smarts to Auckland with a sophisticated yet fun approach to premium drinks. They can whip up almost any cocktail on request—plus, it's where Dua Lipa chose to ring in her birthday while in Auckland, so consider that a stamp of celebrity approval.

Ground Wine Bar delivers a more subdued underground experience. The brainchild of two lifelong wine enthusiasts, Alexs Rasputin and Kaiser Wilmar, Ground is devoted to the perfect pour, serving over 50 wines by the glass from a constantly evolving list, boasting both local and international entries . It's an ideal spot for a pre-dinner tipple—or a space to wind down in after a night out on the town.

Auckland is home to many landmarks, but none stand quite as tall as the Sky Tower. At 328 metres, it's one of the tallest structures in the southern hemisphere. But beyond its sheer height, the Sky Tower is a vibrant hub where panoramic views meet world-class dining.

The standout? Orbit 360° Dining. This revolving restaurant offers an unforgettable gourmet experience, letting you take your love affair of fine dining higher than it's ever been before.

Expect home-grown dishes like Hawke's Bay lamb noisette with kumara, garden peas, goat's cheese, and chimichurri, or fresh Akaroa salmon served with fenugreek cream, broccolini, mussels, and seaweed. It's all paired with punchy New Zealand wines from iconic regions like Waiheke Island and Marlborough—it's truly a memorable feasting moment to savour.

If heights aren't your thing, don't worry. SkyCity boasts an inviting string of revered restaurants along Federal Street, including Samoa-inspired Metita and Huami—a contemporary Chinese restaurant that uses New Zealand's first commercial wood-fired duck oven.

A city's art gallery can say a lot about the community that surrounds it. If the walls of Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki could talk, they'd say Auckland is a melting pot of ideas and creativity that's become Aotearoa's catalyst for cultural change and progress.

Home to some of the country's largest and most inspiring visual arts experiences, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki boasts a collection of 18,000 artworks, spanning historic to contemporary, painting to sculpture—and everything in between.

This winter, discover masterpieces by some of the world's most visionary artists like Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, and Vincent van Gogh in A Century of Modern Art. The exhibition explores how these art pioneers transformed modern art into what we know today. Tip: Always check the current exhibitions before your visit as programming evolves seasonally.

Where you choose to rest your head on holiday is just as important as the itinerary—a plush bed and impeccable service can bolster a much-needed break into something more memorable. Fortunately, Auckland is a treasure trove of overnighter options. From five-star luxury to endearingly quirky, there's an abundance of boutique stays, alongside trusted global favourites like SO/ Auckland, Hotel Indigo, and QT Auckland.

Carving out a new level of sophistication and sustainability is The Hotel Britomart in the heart of the CBD. Bathed in natural light with floor-to-ceiling windows and dramatic ceilings, it's New Zealand's first-ever 'five green-star' hotel—a triumph for inner-city escapism. If you're seeking a slice of local luxury and want to be close—but not too close—to the city buzz, check into Hotel Fitzroy. Nestled in the personality-packed suburb of Ponsonby, this ten-room manor-style abode radiates charm and is designed to give you the best of Auckland living, paired with five-star luxury.

Prefer convenient New York-style studios? Check into the Abstract Hotel, located on Auckland's vibrant Karangahape Road ('K' Road). Designed for travellers who want to capitalise on the city's dynamic culture, this boutique stay delivers efficiency without skimping on style. Alternatively, if you're after something completely different, rest your head in an old nunnery at The Convent Hotel. Steeped in character and quirkiness, this pleasantly paradoxical 22-room Spanish Mission-style building blends history with modern decor and eclectic art.

Start planning your winter escape and uncover why Auckland is stepping into the shoes of New Zealand's cultural capital. Find out more at the Tātaki Auckland website.

By Elise Cullen