Auckland is a beautiful city sandwiched between the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean on New Zealand’s North Island. It’s New Zealand’s biggest city, with a walkable downtown and vibrant suburbs surrounded by rolling hills, soaring mountains, and stunning beaches.

The central business district (CBD) offers an array of cultural attractions at the heart of the city. You’ll find museums such as the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki here, the largest in the country with more than 17,000 works on display, and the Auckland War Memorial Museum, which explores New Zealand history through exhibits that include artifacts from Māori and Pacific collections. For a spot in the sun and some greenery, grab a bench in Albert Park. And when you’ve worked up an appetite, hit the glittering lights of the Viaduct Harbour, which is home to more than 30 bars and restaurants, or visit world-class wineries on Waiheke Island.

Auckland also has numerous breathtaking beaches that are only a short car or ferry ride away. Choose between the popular seaside suburb of Mission Bay, the rugged black sand beach Piha, or the surfing haven of Anchor Bay. Or head out on one of the many hiking trails in the surrounding mountains or islands, taking in all that this scenic city has to offer.

Auckland Airport (AKL), located in South Auckland around 27 kilometers from Auckland CBD, is the closest airport to Auckland city center. You can take the Skybus from the airport to the CBD, which should take roughly 45 minutes.

It is possible to walk to many of the city’s top attractions from the CBD and there is also a light rail service that runs from Britomart Station to many of the inner suburbs. You can also find ferries going to some of the nearby islands that leave from the Downtown Ferry Terminal. Biking is an option for getting around the city, but keep in mind that it can be a bit hilly in some places.

Auckland has a coastal climate, meaning there are few extremes in temperature throughout the year. It’s also one of the sunniest parts of New Zealand. But because the weather can also change rapidly due to cold fronts, it’s smart to pack for all weather, including rain, regardless of when you book an Auckland vacation rental. It’s also a good idea to bring sun protection for the spring and summer, due to the intensity of the UV rays in New Zealand.

Generally you can expect warm, humid summers, which run from December to February, making this a great time to hit nearby beaches and festivals in the surrounding islands.

During the fall (March to May), you can expect the long sunny days to continue and the higher temps to cool. Spring (September to November) is similarly mild.

Winters (June to September) can get quite cool and damp, making it a great time to wander the city’s museums.

Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is about a 45-minute ferry ride from the Auckland CBD. This beautiful, hilly island offers opportunities for hiking, swimming, and cycling. Some of the most popular things to do are rent bikes or visit the island’s wineries, which produce great quality wines and usually have beautiful restaurants where you can spend an afternoon sipping a glass of refreshing sauvignon blanc.

Ponsonby

Ponsonby is one of Auckland’s hippest neighborhoods, located just a short walk from the CBD. It’s home to chic bars, pop-up food stalls, award-winning restaurants, and a thriving live music and DJ scene. This is where you’ll also find a number of creative and literary outlets, including independent bookstores, galleries, and artisan boutiques.

The Sky Tower

Standing at 328 meters tall and visible from virtually everywhere in Auckland, the Sky Tower is one of the tallest structures in the southern hemisphere. There is a rotating restaurant and an observation deck at the top. You can walk along the exterior edge of the Sky Tower on the SkyWalk.