With the sheltered Waitemata Harbour, Auckland has hosted many internationally renowned sailing events including the famous America’s Cup, the World’s largest annual one day sailing regatta, attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators.
With more than 50 islands waiting to be explored, Auckland truly is a maritime playground.
Visit the volcanic islands of Rangitoto and enjoy the breath-taking views; or head to Waiheke, the Island of Wine, and go exploring around its secluded bays or relax on the beautiful beaches before heading to its vineyards for wine and olive tasting. For lovers of the great outdoors who are searching for adventure, we recommend a trip to New Zealand’s premier native forest zipline tour! Located on Waiheke Island, they offer state of the art flying fox ziplines for the ultimate thrill. Gain speeds in excess of 50km an hour over 200m high in the sky and be sure to enjoy the amazing views flying past you!
© EcoZip Adventures
If you want to extend your stay, book a night at one of the luxury lodges. Try the Delamore Lodge which is a 5 minute helicopter ride from Auckland. Here you will receive 5-star service with every attention to detail. This stunning boutique hotel is built on the edge of a cliff, offering panoramic views across Owhanake Bay. Be sure to enjoy their spa which is a haven of total relaxation. Takatu Luxury Lodge and Vineyard in Matakana is 45 minutes from Auckland and is a place for relaxation, peace and rejuvenation. Top quality service is guaranteed with luxurious and spacious suites, local wines and sumptuous dishes at every meal.
Waiheke Island © Chris McLennan
If you are simply looking for somewhere to dine out before heading back to your luxury yacht for the evening, there are many delicious restaurants to try, including Poderi Crisci for a mouth-watering experience, or for something more romantic head to Mudbrick Vineyard Restaurant. The Sugar Club on level 53 of the fabulous Sky Tower offers breath-taking views across Auckland, and their 1930s Art Deco Italian interior inspires with its fusion cuisine which uses the finest in local produce, mixed with flavours from around the world.
If you find yourself on the opposite side of the island, or fancy a 45 minute drive from Auckland, make time in your schedule to visit KareKare Falls, one of New Zealand’s most beautiful waterfalls, and stop by KareKare Beach to see the mass expanse of black sand. This wild beach is breath-taking, but take care if you decide to brave the cold waters as the waves are pretty strong.
Karekare Waterfall © Chris-Sisarich
90km north east of Auckland is Great Barrier Island, taking you away from the hustle and bustle of the city and to one of the most tranquil and unspoilt places youwill ever find. Spend a leisurely day in the forest searching for relaxing hot springs, secluded swimming spots, waterfalls and old kauri dams. For those with a passion for watersports, you can enjoy kayaking, snorkelling, fishing, surfing and diving. There are no ATM Machines, banks or supermarkets – so cash is essential – and the island is solar powered so bring a good torch for the evenings as there are no street lights. It really is a world away from everything!
Great Barrier Island
Bluewater can assist you with activities, reservations and itineraries to suit your personal taste.
Fun fact
The America’s Cup trophy was originally awarded in 1851 by the Royal Yacht Squadron for a race around the Isle of Wight in England, which was won by the schooner America. The trophy was renamed the America's Cup after the yacht and was donated to the New York Yacht Club (NYYC) under the terms of the Deed of Gift, which made the cup available for perpetual international competition.
Any yacht club that meets the requirements specified in the Deed of Gift has the right to challenge the yacht club that holds the Cup. If the challenging club wins the match, it gains stewardship of the cup.
The history and prestige associated with the America's Cup attracts not only the world's top sailors and yacht designers but also the involvement of wealthy entrepreneurs and sponsors.
The actual America’s Cup trophy is an ornate Stirling silver bottomless ewer crafted in 1848 and is affectionately known as the ‘Auld Mug’ in the sailing community. The latest winner and current cup holder of the oldest trophy in international sport is the Golden Gate Yacht Club.
