As an Australian journalist who'd never ventured across the Tasman Sea, I held the typical preconceptions about New Zealand. Like many of my compatriots, my imagination was filled with visions of the South Island's mirror-still lakes and rugged peaks. Auckland barely registered on my travel radar - until it completely stole my heart.
The Unexpected Gem
The City of Sails delivers an experience that perfectly balances local charm with cosmopolitan sophistication. It shares similarities with Sydney - both cities boast their own Wynyard district, Harbour Bridge, and prominent central tower - yet Auckland possesses its own distinct magic.
Qantas recognised Auckland's appeal by selecting it as the destination for the first international flight from Adelaide in twelve years. This new route operates four times weekly until May 2026, creating fresh opportunities for South Australians heading east. The connection even benefits New York-bound travellers, who can now reach the Big Apple in just twenty-one hours.
South Australia's Tourism Minister, Zoe Bettison MP, described the launch as a significant milestone for the state. The numbers support her enthusiasm: New Zealand has become South Australia's fourth-largest tourism market, experiencing remarkable forty-two percent growth in the past year alone.
A Culinary Destination Worth Discovering
Auckland's dining scene provides sufficient reason to visit, with the city currently under consideration by Michelin Guide inspectors. During my visit, three establishments stood out as exceptional:
Gilt Brasserie occupies the heritage Chancery Chambers building, where chef Josh Emett masterfully interprets European classics. The grilled tiger prawns bathing in nduja butter and impossibly tender braised beef cheeks demonstrate kitchen excellence. The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between polished sophistication and genuine warmth.
Daphnes Bar Taverna captures Mediterranean spirit with refined execution. Founded by husband-and-wife team Joost and Clare van den Berg after their Greek travels, the restaurant buzzes with shared plates, open flames and infectious laughter. Don't miss the focaccia with burnt butter, wood-fired fish with buttermilk and pine nuts, or lamb with buffalo yoghurt.
Shucker Brothers proves that size doesn't determine impact. This compact seafood bar near the ferry wharf serves oysters of exceptional quality - briny, sweet and absolutely perfect. The scallops remain memorable weeks later, exactly as a local from Waiheke Island promised they would be.
Beyond the City: Matakana and Waiheke Island
Venturing just one hour north reveals Matakana Village, home to a beloved Saturday market that attracts both loyal locals and savvy travellers. I explored with Ceillhe Sperath, owner of TIME Unlimited, whose team possesses that rare combination of deep regional knowledge and intuitive understanding of what travellers seek.
The markets deliver sensory delight: small-batch hot sauces, handmade dark chocolate from Honest Chocolat, boutique olive oils, fresh farm produce, linen, pottery and floral arrangements. It's the kind of place where browsing intentions quickly transform into multiple purchases.
Nearby Brick Bay estate offers wine tasting and leisurely lunches at The Glass House, followed by sculpture trail walks through native forest. The experience feels both grounding and delicious.
Waiheke Island presents an entirely different world just forty-five minutes by ferry from central Auckland. Its unique micro-climate supports vineyard-covered hillsides sloping toward sapphire beaches, olive groves and abundant seabird life.
With guidance from Ananda, I experienced more in six hours than would have been possible alone. EcoZip Adventures provides thrilling aerial perspectives via three giant flying foxes through treetops, followed by rainforest walks beneath ancient canopies.
Allpress Olive Groves produces estate-grown olive oil so flavourful I purchased multiple bottles, plus the best herb spread I've ever tasted. Tantalus Estate emerged as my standout experience, where wine-fuelled long lunches extend into golden afternoon light and dishes showcase artistic plating - the Ora King salmon is unmissable.
Waiheke Whiskey offers playful tastings in fresh garden air, demonstrating that whiskey appreciation isn't mandatory for distillery enjoyment. If you have just one free day in Auckland, spend it here. For those with two or three days, the accommodation options make extended stays irresistible.
The New Standard in Airport Comfort
Before departing Adelaide, I visited the new Qantas Business Lounge. While I typically exclude lounge reviews, this establishment demands recognition as the most beautiful I've encountered.
The design feels contemporary, calm and slick with thoughtful details throughout. Market Kitchen serves food with genuine personality rather than stereotypical airport neutrality. Proper charging points, warm lighting, luxurious bathrooms and a well-stocked bar complete the experience. This lounge establishes new standards for what airport spaces should offer - considered, local and quietly luxurious.
I arrived in Auckland with minimal expectations and departed completely converted, already planning my return. If this vibrant city has been lingering on your travel list, move it directly to the top.
