Auckland’s coastlines, culture and vineyard escapes

Often treated as a stopover en route to New Zealand’s South Island, Auckland rewards those who linger – with sweeping coastal views, relaxing hikes, the aroma of vineyards, and the buzz of traditional performances in the city.

That piercing call is the kāranga, the traditional Māori greeting for a group of visitors. At Auckland War Memorial Museum, daily performances showcase kapa haka, Māori performing arts, and guests can step  into an intricately
carved wharenui, or meeting house. Later, meet Auckland’s avian life on a day trip to the island of Tiritiri Matangi, a bird sanctuary 80 minutes away by ferry from Auckland CBD.

The best way to get a sense of Auckland’s scale – from the Waitākere Ranges in the west to the Waitematā Harbour in the east – is from the summit of Maungawhau (Mount Eden). It’s about a 20-minute hike, rewarded by panoramic views and glimpses of native birds such as tūī and piwakawaka.

Inhale the bouquet of aromas from many a wine glass on Waiheke Island, a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland across the inner Hauraki Gulf. Waiheke’s warm microclimate is perfect for ripe, full reds, and vineyard kitchens at Casita Miro and Mudbrick serve menus that pair well with each glass.

Auckland’s dining scene fuses flavours from across Asia, the Pacific and New Zealand – and nowhere more so than at Ahi, where the menu features ingredients traditionally used by Māori communities alongside the best produce from around the country. At neighbourhood favourite Forest, uniquely Kiwi elements such as feijoa and kūmara take turns on a fine dining menu that evolves with the seasons.

Slip off your shoes and sink your feet into the sand at Mission Bay or Takapuna, two of the city’s best swimming beaches. The water is warm enough to take a dip from December through March; for the adventurous, book a lesson at Muriwai Surf School on the west coast.

Visit singaporeair.com for more information on flights to Auckland.