New Zealand’s oceans have more coastline than the continental United States, so there’s plenty to see and do. By sailing along the water, you might get a distinct perspective of the surreal panorama. New Zealand is a place that is tailor-made for spectacular sailing adventures, with sheltered sounds, bays filled with islands, and more than 9,320 miles of coastline. Secluded anchorages and waterways abounding with vibrant marine life will certainly make your stay unforgettable there. So, here are the best sailing destinations in New Zealand, keep reading!

Auckland

Auckland, or the “City of Sails,” boasts more boats per capita than any other city on the planet. The Maritime Museum, which has an operating fleet of four heritage vessels that provide tourists the unique experience of sailing the Waitemata Harbor, is located in Auckland. The city has an ever-growing number of restaurants, bars, and cafes. The Hauraki Gulf, which Auckland Harbor breaks out into, is a popular sailing destination. You can visit a variety of gorgeous islands by using one of the local ferries or with your own vessel. Take a trip to Rangitoto Island’s dormant volcano and hike to the peak for spectacular city views. Auckland’s North Shore also protects the city from Pacific storms. You can also head north to the Bay of Islands, a popular boating location with over 100 islands to explore and a subtropical climate that makes it a terrific year-round getaway.

Hauraki Gulf, Auckland

This beautiful harbor is not distant from New Zealand’s starting point and the most populous city. The Hauraki Gulf, which is directly on Auckland’s doorstep, is made up of more than 50 islands with quiet sandy beaches, rocky terrain, wildlife conservation zones, and 500 safe island anchorages. Waiheke Island is a popular and easy-to-access destination for anyone looking to venture beyond the inner harbor. With its vineyards, galleries, cafes, boutiques, easygoing ambiance, and several anchorages, it’s a favorite sailing spot for many. Also, a boat trip to Kawau Island or Great Barrier Island on the gulf’s outer edge is highly recommended. The Barrier, for example, is noted for its diving and fishing, as well as birdlife, bushwalks, and gorgeous beaches. It also has a hot thermal spring (Kaitoke) to soak in. On your gulf adventures, keep a lookout for whales, dolphins, and blue penguins.

Cape Colville

The outer limit of many sailors’ self-imposed cruising grounds is Cape Colville, the northeastern-most point of the Hauraki Gulf. With its long, sandy beach and lovely surroundings, Great Mercury Island, just one day to the southeast, is an outstanding sailing ground. Mercury Bay, Mayor Island, and Slipper Island are among the anchorages where you can break up your voyage south depending on the weather.

Tauranga

Tauranga and Mount Maunganui, its sister city, are pleasant locales that will attract you for a variety of reasons. You can rent a car from there to visit the North Island’s most well-known inland attractions. Rotorua for its culture and thermal activity, Lake Taupo for breathtaking scenery, and Tongariro National Park for its lunar terrain. Tauranga is also a fantastic site to work on boats because it has some of the lowest marina and yard fees on the North Island. Most sailors are confined to the north/central area of the North Island due to the more intense weather of the south, especially since land travel to the South Island is relatively accessible. Of course, for those who do venture south, the rewards are multiplied.

Bay of Islands, Northland

The Bay of Islands is a maritime playground that spans 144 islands between Cape Brett and the Purerua Peninsula in Northland. The Bay’s simple accessibility, rich history, and the plethora of nautical activities combine for a holiday that can be as action-packed or peaceful as you wish. Because of the abundance of marine life in these waters, the Bay of Islands is home to pods of playful dolphins, as well as orcas and whales. Scuba diving and snorkeling for scallops and crayfish is a thrilling experience, and the fishing is excellent.

On ribbons of walking pathways, you can spend hours exploring lovely islands like Roberton and Urupukapuka. And, also dive in pristine white beaches and or anchor if possible. Note that for any wind direction, the Bay provides safe anchorages. As part of your sailing journey, you can participate in activities such as diving and kayaking, both of which are excellent ways to explore above and below the ocean.

Malborough Sounds and South Island

In this gorgeous region of the South Island’s north-eastern tip, boating choices abound. There are more than 1500 kilometers of coastline to explore, including some of the best sailing in the country. The three primary departure ports are Picton, Havelock, and Waikawa. It’s a visual treat to cruise the picture-perfect Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru, and Pelorus Sounds. Bottlenose and hector dolphins, king shags, blue penguins, and fur seals will definitely capture your attention.

Sailing across the Cook Strait and across the beautiful Marlborough Sounds to the South Island is a great way to escape off the beaten path. There are various places to visit in the Marlborough region, including some of New Zealand’s top wine districts and countless restaurants serving some of the country’s best seafood. All the way down the South Island’s wild and diverse coasts, there are endless opportunities to explore. Don’t omit to visit Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park which is best explored by boat.

Abel Tasman National Park, South Island

The Abel Tasman National Park, located near the southernmost tip of the South Island, is a coastal paradise that is geographically scenic and ideal for sailing experiences. The area is cloaked in native woodland, which cascades down to meet appealing white-sand beaches that softly give way to the beautiful ocean. The headlands are crisscrossed with walking trails, and just offshore is the Tonga Island Marine Reserve, a protected undersea area with superb snorkeling. A lovely pink alga covers much of the rocks here, while crayfish and conga eels hide in cracks. There are numerous fish species to be found in the vicinity, including snapper, blue cod, tarakihi, and moki.

Abel Tasman has the sunniest hours in the country, and a New Zealand Fur Seal Colony allows visitors to meet them. Kayaking is a terrific way to see the iconic split apple rock. Abel Tasman is especially ideal for families, with activities including snorkeling, swimming in small, secure bays, and watching fur seals!

Canterbury

Canterbury is a region of remarkable contrasts, a haven for those seeking incredible scenery and adventure. From lush vineyards and wild coastlines to sky-piercing mountains and pristine glacial lakes, it’s the best for nature-lovers. Lay back and relax in Hanmer Springs’ natural hot pools, visit boutique galleries and secret bays in Akaroa and Banks Peninsula, or sample the joys of the North Canterbury wine area. Alternatively, visit the Mackenzie district and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park to see the turquoise lakes, impressive glaciers, and sky-piercing alps.

The Canterbury region has a diverse range of boating destinations, from braided rivers to vast stretches of coastline, as well as lakes. Wildlife interactions, vivid blue waters, high coastal cliffs, and a history involving French pioneers are all reasons to visit Akaroa Peninsular, according to locals. The Rakaia River beckons if you have a fishing boat and are looking for an adventure.

The Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty stretches about 260 kilometers between Tauranga in the west and Cape Runaway in the east. Tauranga and Mount Maunganui are two towns that have grown up together. Tauranga is a mini-Auckland, with plenty of shopping and great eating, while Mt Maunganui is a more laid-back beach destination. Mount Maunganui is not just the name of the town, but also the name of an ancient volcano cone that sits at the end of Mount Maunganui Beach. Try to find Oscar, the local seal, as you walk around the base. While sunbathing on the rocks, he enjoys being the center of attention.

Climb Mt Maunganui at sunrise or sunset for the best views of the Bay of Plenty. It’s a short but steep climb, but I promise you won’t be disappointed. Mt Maunganui and Ohope Beaches are frequently ranked the best in the country. These east coast gems have a lot to offer people who enjoy being on the sea. The beautiful Bay of Plenty is home to harbors, sandy beaches, and excellent fishing. Tuhua/Mayor Island and Motiti Island in Tauranga are two islands worth visiting. Moutohora/Whale Island, near Hope, is a pest-free paradise down the coast.

Wellington

Another favorite location for sailors and cruisers is Wellington, New Zealand’s lovely capital. Wellington, or “the Windy City,” offers a lot of favorable winds that you may take advantage of. With street performances, trendy cafes, and art surrounding the piers, strolling the Wellington Waterfront is the greatest way to see the city. Te Papa, New Zealand’s National Museum, is also located there and is a must-see for visitors to the city.

Note that Wairarapa, Wellington’s own wine country, has some of New Zealand’s best pinot noir. And, it is just a 90-minute drive or train ride from the city. Moreover, the Hutt Valley is an adventure lover’s dream, with over 3,000 hectares of parks, reserves, bush-clad hills, beaches, walks, and pathways. Sail along the Kapiti Coast, which stretches 40 kilometers from Paekakariki to Otaki and consists of a string of charming villages. A visit to Kapiti Island, and anchoring overnight, is a must on any voyage to the coast.

Lake Taupo and Rotorua Lakes

This lake, or the “Big Daddy” of New Zealand Lakes, is large enough to handle boatloads of fun. On Taupo’s normally tranquil waters, you can enjoy jet boats or skis, scenic tours, swimming, kayaking, fishing, sailing, etc. Visit the iconic Maori rock sculptures along the lakefront, which were built in the 1970s to preserve the lake from additional volcanic activity. You might also find a hot spring along the lake’s edges. Popular vacation places can be found on the lake’s south end.

More than a dozen big volcanic lakes provide plenty of opportunities for boating, watersports, and fishing in and around Rotorua. Lake Rotorua, Tarawera, Rotoiti, Okareka, and the beautiful Blue Lake are among the most well-known. Because of its great camping grounds, picnic places, and walking trails, the latter (called for its deep color) is popular with families. Thermal pools, accessible only by boat, can be found on the shores of various lakes, such as Lake Rotoiti.