Book a trip from Manchester to Auckland with Cathay Pacific , fares from GBP1,251

For travellers arriving at Auckland International Airport, the city centre is located approximately 27 kilometres away and can be reached in around 20 minutes by taxi or rental car. Alternatively, the convenient SkyBus service runs frequently from just outside the international terminal, providing a direct route into the heart of Auckland. This bus journey will take you about an hour to reach the city centre.

With an abundance of natural beauty, a flawless combination of sea and city, and fascinating Maori history, there’s little wonder why Auckland is so dazzling.

For travellers looking to kick off their Auckland adventure, a visit to the iconic Sky Tower is a must. Standing at an impressive height of 328 metres, this landmark offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city and its stunning surroundings. Take a glass elevator to the observation deck, located 220 metres above ground, and be treated to breathtaking 360-degree vistas that showcase Auckland's vibrant cityscape and the natural beauty that lies beyond.

Sitting atop a volcanic field, Auckland is known for its hilly terrain and countless trails. For picturesque panoramas, be sure to enjoy some of the city’s best hikes, some of the more popular being Mount Victoria, Mount Eden, and One Tree Hill. From these vantage points, you’ll be able to see Auckland’s urban cityscape: a smattering of skyscrapers and two yacht-filled harbours – earning Auckland the nickname the ‘City of Sails’.

For an insight into Maori culture and heritage, travellers can explore the Auckland Museum. If you are an art lover, the Auckland Art Gallery and the Wallace Arts Centre display some of the finest works from nationally and internationally regarded artists. Wander through the streets of Vulcan Lane and Ponsonby Road to find a bustling bar and cafe scene, where you’ll find everything from Indian to Japanese cuisine, modern European Michelin star restaurants, and trendy burger shacks.

For a day trip outside Auckland, Waiheke Island is located just a short ferry ride and is a haven for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts. The island is known for its picturesque vineyards, pristine beaches, and vibrant arts scene. Travellers can embark on wine tours and tastings at world-class wineries, where they can sample award-winning wines and learn about the winemaking process. Waiheke's stunning beaches offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The island is also home to numerous art galleries, sculpture parks, and studios, showcasing the creative talents of local artists.

Experience the ease of discovering convenient and luxurious hotels for you with Cathay Pacific. Located in the heart of Auckland's CBD, VR Auckland City offers stylish and quality serviced apartments perfect for both business and leisure travellers. With a range of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options, the apartments provide the comforts of home combined with hotel-style amenities. Guests can take advantage of features like fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and complimentary WiFi. The central location puts you within easy reach of top attractions, shopping, dining, and entertainment. For waterfront views, Gamma Hotel offers a fantastic central location in Auckland, just minutes away from the bustling Queen Street. With 60 recently renovated rooms, it provides a great balance of hotel-style amenities and quality budget accommodation. The hotel is close to top attractions like the Vector Arena, Aotea Centre, and Parnell Village, making it an ideal base for travellers. Guests can enjoy a range of on-site facilities, including a shared kitchen, guest laundry, and free WiFi. Book your stay today and discover a wondrous world of rewards, including special accommodation, room upgrades, and access to lounge facilities.

Auckland beckons food enthusiasts with its diverse array of restaurants that offer a fusion of culinary delights from around the globe. Nestled on the iconic Karangahape Road in Auckland, Underground Bistro is a charming restaurant and wine bar that promises a memorable dining experience for travellers. Co-owned by experienced restaurateurs Adam Purcell and Lindon Wahrlich, who have already made a name for themselves in the city's vibrant dining scene, Underground Bistro offers an inviting atmosphere where guests can come together to savour delicious fare and refreshing drinks. On the other hand, travellers looking for a cosy and casual dining experience will love Ooh-fa Pizza & Wine, a delightful restaurant located in the vibrant heart of Auckland. Boasting a mouthwatering menu of freshly made pizzas, Ooh-fa offers a wide range of classic and gourmet toppings to satisfy every palate. Complementing the delicious pizzas is an impressive wine list, allowing guests to pair their favourite slices with the perfect glass of wine. Whether you're craving a classic Margherita or a unique speciality pizza, Ooh-fa delivers a dining experience that combines great food and fine wine in a comfortable, inviting atmosphere.

There’s plenty to remember when flying to a new destination. Here is some information that you should know before your flight to Auckland.

• Currency: New Zealand Dollar ($, NZD). Find out the current conversion rate.
• Plug: 220V Types D, G, and M
• Time zone: GMT+13. Daylight Savings moves this forward 1 hour from October to April.
• Languages: English and Maori