Joanna James
Although Auckland is New Zealand's most populous urban city, it is flanked by many places of natural beauty. The city offers quick getaways from its bustling atmosphere in the form of venturing towards immaculate coastlines and scenic landscapes.
Nestled on the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand is the Waiheke Island, which is lauded for its picturesque vineyards, immaculate beaches, and adventurous walking trails. Spread across 92 square kilometres, Waiheke Island can be accessed via a 40-minutes ferry ride from downtown Auckland. It is one of those few places on earth where you can swim and relax in crystal-clear water all morning and explore magnificent vineyards or go on compelling bushwalks in the evening. It is the second-largest island in the Gulf and is rated as one of the best islands escapes in the world.
An island that's made for nature lovers, the Great Barrier Island offers a paradise for its visitors – one that isn't largely exposed to the modern world, hence providing one with an immense feeling of being at one with nature. The Great Barrier Island is the largest of its kind on the Hauraki Gulf of the country. The island received its name from Captain Cook as it acts as a great barrier between the Pacific Ocean and the Hauraki Gulf. On this island, you will be greeted by a thriving wildlife population thanks to its immaculate waters and the protected forest.
A 64-hectare region that houses an exquisite variety of plants and flowers, the Auckland Botanic Gardens is a venue that must be visited during a visit to Manurewa, South Auckland. Located close to Auckland Harbour hotels, it boasts of more than 10,000 species of flora that is elegantly arranged across various themed sections. Although the idea for a botanical garden came up in 1926, it wasn't officially opened for the public until the early 1980s. The Auckland Botanic Gardens strive to promote an appreciation of plants and raise awareness about the importance of plants and the important role it plays in human lives.
Once the venue of an alcohol and drug rehabilitation centre operated by the Salvation Army, Rotoroa Island is often underappreciated in terms of its scenic natural beauty. Nowadays, it has been converted into a conservation and heritage site that houses an abundance of flora and fauna species. Easily accessed by ferry, Rotoroa Island offers marvellous opportunities for its visitors, such as exploring heritage buildings of an old community, visiting a modern exhibition centre that showcases the history of the island. The island is blessed with four pristine beaches, lush walking trails, and an array of other attractions.
Located close to several properties and serviced apartments such as Auckland Harbour Suites, the Auckland Domain is a park that lies within the city. It offers plenty of remarkable landscapes and significant cultural attractions in its premises. It's at its prettiest during the spring when the cherry trees are in full bloom. One can pretty much stroll over to this location from downtown Auckland during their leisure to be completely absorbed by the unique charm of a verdant wonderland.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
