Auckland: Perfect Destination for Water Babies

Boating

One of the best ways to appreciate the City of Sails is to take to the water. There are numerous companies offering cruises, ferries, tours and charters. Most charter companies offer skippered, crewed and skippered, or bareboat (you skipper yourself) charters, as well as instruction. For one of the best experiences on the water, take a trip on the tall ship Soren Larsen, a square-rigged, 19th-century brigantine beauty with 12 sails.

Surfing

For good surf less than 50km (30mi) from the city, try Te Henga (Bethells Beach) on the west coast where the water is often very rough. You should also check out Piha, Karekare, Muriwai and Whatipu. Most of the surfing beaches have surf clubs and lifeguards.

Swimming

Auckland has many beaches within easy reach of the downtown area. They include Okahu Bay, Mission Bay, Kohimarama Beach and St Heliers Bay, which are along Tamaki Drive. They tend to be best at high tide. There are also numerous public swimming pools in Auckland. Some are open in summer only.

Jogging

The expanse and fringing bushland of Auckland's Domain make it a great place to run. A flat and popular route is along Quay St to Tamaki Drive and from there to St Heliers Bay (about 7km/4mi one way).

Walking

There are numerous, free pamphlets on many walks in and around Auckland. Tracks range from dead easy to very demanding. The pamphlets are generally available at visitor centres, but you can also get them from the relevant city councils and the Department of Conservation.