OUR DESTINATIONS
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We offer holidays to the four corners of the globe. If you want specialist advise please phone our travel team and we will be happy to help.
Alternatively, check out some of our holiday offers below.
- Destinations
- Australasia
- New Zealand
- Auckland
- Hauraki Gulf Islands
Hauraki Gulf Islands
The Hauraki Gulf is studded with numerous islands such as
Rangitoto, Waiheke and Great Barrier Island and those close to the
mainland make a good day trip. Some are recreation retreats, and
others are conservation islands with restricted access, reserves
for the protection of rare bird, animal and plant life. Waiheke is
the most popular of the gulf islands, with picturesque bays and
white sandy beaches, rolling farmlands and hills cloaked with
vineyards and fine wineries. The town enjoys the slow and relaxed
pace of island life, along with chic little restaurants and cafes,
and is home to many art galleries and craft shops.
The nearest island to the city is the uninhabited Rangitoto, a
large volcanic cone with an unusual landscape of black distorted
lava shapes that governs the view over the harbour. It is possible
to hike up to the crater rim and explore the lava caves on the
slopes. Each island has a different character with different things
to do, whether it is to explore natural geological features or to
enjoy the isolation, relax on white beaches or wander about the
galleries and cafes. Some visitors prefer simply to sail around the
islands on a yacht or ferry cruise and enjoy the scenery from on
board.
Information & Facts
Language
The official languages in New Zealand are English and
Maori.
Money
Local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), divided into 100
cents. Most businesses accept MasterCard and Visa, and while Diners
Club and American Express are also widely accepted in the main
tourist centres, they might have limited acceptance elsewhere.
Travellers cheques and foreign currency can be exchanged at banks,
bureaux de change and some hotels. ATMs can be found in all towns
and cities.