Natural Paradise

They call Whangaroa the ‘Marlin Capital of New Zealand’. Big game fish can be coaxed from the depths by the dozen. Better still, its stunning natural harbour looks like the Southern Hemisphere’s version of Croatia. Go dinghy sailing, snorkelling or sea kayaking. Play golf. Hike to the top of duke’s nose peak or the Kairara rocks for majestic views. Paddleboard. Swim between the islands over a mirror-calm bay.

Experience the sub-tropical climate of the bay of islands, known as the ‘winterless north’. Explore piercy island, famous as the site of the hole in the rock, a huge naturally formed rock archway 18 metres wide. Later, discover the charming historic town of russell. Wander waterfront galleries and cafes. Stroll the scenic reserve along ngaiotonga saddle among ancient native trees. Snorkel and swim in turquoise lagoons and spot marlin, whales, penguins, dolphins, gannets and more. Kayak and paddleboard in calm island bays. Swim with friendly local dolphins.

Tutukaka is a bustling waterfront town, a favourite of yachtsmen, and the gateway to the poor knights islands marine reserve. These islands, named as one of the world’s top ten dive sites by Jacques Cousteau, offer some of the world’s best diving, with 30 metres visibility, as well as snorkelling and fishing. Guests can also explore one of the world’s largest sea caves, Riko Riko, home to 125 species of fish, soft corals, sponges, anemones, ecklonia kelp forests and gorgonian fans.

For true off the beaten track exploration, spend the day at great barrier island. This is the New Zealand that time forgot. The fourth largest of New Zealand’s islands, great barrier guards the approaches to the outer Hauraki gulf. Its shoreline is fringed with perfect pacific anchorages. Hike the bush trails to discover unique natural waterfalls, or grab the yacht’s dive gear and swim down into waters teeming with sea life.

An archipelago made for adventurers, the mercury islands are protected nature reserves, home to endangered birds, reptiles and insects. On land, hike scented palm forests and relax on white sand beaches. Scuba below the surface to explore the Mercurys’ marine kaleidoscope, including blue maomao, kahawai, demoiselle fish and moray among underwater caves, pinnacles, canyons and arches. The private Great Mercury Island can be rented for the ultimate event.

The wilderness of the Coromandel Peninsula sits only 55km from New Zealand’s biggest city. But it's a slice of sub-tropical paradise. Hike through kauri forests to discover abandoned gold mines, canyons, waterfalls and panoramic cliffs. Go on a tender adventure to a deserted beach. Luxuriate in natural springs. Sea kayak and surf around Coromandel’s spectacular volcanic coast. Epic fishing. Extreme biking. Vertiginous gorges.

Carpeted with olive groves and vineyards, Waiheke is a little patch of the Mediterranean in the Hauraki gulf. Wander the island’s vineyards, olive groves and shops, relax on
Excellent beaches and sample award-winning local gewürztraminer or sauvignon blanc. Active charterers can jet through the pacific on the yacht’s water toys in stunning, protected bays, great for jetskiing and paddleboarding.

The Gulf of Hauraki is Auckland’s weekend playground, home to endless white sand beaches, countless islands and calm waters. Whales bask in the evening sun. Pacific currents sweep in schools of dolphins 500 strong. Dive right in, or fish for fresh seafood for dinner. The Gulf Islands abound with activities and adventure. Paddleboard to Beehive Island for snorkelling and sand. Sail to Hen Island for hikes with reptiles. Mountain bike in Motuapu.

Auckland is known as the ‘City of Sails’, welcoming yachts of all sizes. Explore the city. Jog around Auckland Domain Park. Take a pavement table at a buzzing café. Wander atmospheric markets. For an unrivalled view of the city and the Hauraki Gulf, experience a ‘Pacific fusion’ dinner at Orbit, the revolving restaurant at the summit of the city’s Sky Tower.
Depart from Auckland's International Airport for onward travel.