Top Reasons to Go

Top Reasons to Go

Boating & Sailing: Auckland is dubbed "City of Sails," and the population is crazy about boating and any other sea-related recreation. A variety of ferries and high-speed catamarans operate on Waitemata Harbour. Even better, go for a leisurely sail on the Pride of Auckland, or experience a genuine match race on America's Cup yachts with Sail NZ.

Cuisine & Café Culture: Some of the finest restaurants in the country reside in Auckland—and not just fine dining. The restaurant scene thrives from top-end down to bistro-cum-bars. Neighborhoods such as Ponsonby are crammed with vibrant eateries and cafés, their tables spilling onto the pavement, turning out fine fare for the discerning locals.

Year-Round Golf: Frank Nobilo's hometown, Auckland, has more than 20 golf courses, from informal and easygoing to challenging championship level designed by the likes of Sir Bob Charles and Alister MacKenzie. Most have beautiful scenery, some with views of the Hauraki Gulf. Golf is played year-round here, and the green fees are among the cheapest anywhere.

Gorgeous Beaches: The West Coast's black-sand beaches are best for surfing, whereas the safest swimming is on the East Coast. Beaches that have a reputation for large waves and rips are patrolled in the summer, so swim between the flags. The ozone layer is weak above New Zealand, so slap on the sunscreen.