As the northernmost major city in New Zealand, Auckland is the gateway to the upper half of New Zealand's stunning North Island. Within a few hours' drive of such iconic holiday spots as Rotorua, the Coromandel Peninsula and the Bay of Islands, Auckland is also the perfect base from which to explore this magical area.

So whether it's world-class wineries, deep sea fishing, hiking or cutting-edge art and culture that take your fancy, Auckland and the Auckland region have you covered.

What are the must-see attractions in Auckland?

As far as must-see attractions in Auckland go, there's definitely more than enough to keep even the most dedicated holiday goer occupied for weeks on end. With that in mind, here are some suggestions to get you started on your upcoming Auckland adventure.

Perhaps the best place to start any Auckland journey is from on top of a volcano - a dormant one that is! With 53 identified dormant volcanoes in the Auckland area, these stunning green hills, or Maunga, are well worth a climb. Start at Mt Eden/Maungawhau, Auckland's highest natural point, before moving to the iconic Maungakiekie, or One Tree Hill.

If you have time, grab a picnic, hop on a ferry and take a bushwalk up through lava fields to the summit of Rangitoto - a graceful island cone that is home to the world's largest Pohutukawa forest. Take a tour with a Maori guide, and truly experience the culture of this remarkable area.

While on an island bent, be sure to take a day or more to explore the paradise that is Waiheke Island. Set in the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island is only a 40 minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, yet you'll feel a million miles away.

Blessed with breathtaking beaches, award winning wineries and adventures that include jet ski tours and zip lines, Waiheke also has one of the best climates in New Zealand. Due primarily to the effect of the gulf's currents, Waiheke can often be sunny whilst downtown Auckland is overcast or rainy.

If it's a different perspective you're after, be sure to head to the top of Auckland's Sky Tower - the tallest freestanding building in New Zealand. With panoramic views that allow you to appreciate the true beauty of this stunning city, you can also enjoy some of Auckland's finest restaurants, including the revolving Orbit 360.

Not enough? Then fall in style with a 192m base jump from the Sky Tower, check out the sea life at the Auckland Aquarium, visit the Auckland Art Gallery (Toi o Tōmaki) for New Zealand's best collection of national and international art, or learn about Maori culture with a tour to a traditional village with the local Ngati Whatua Orakei tribe.

While a cool city overall with a young and exciting feel, certain neighbourhoods bear mentioning for their vibe. Head to Ponsonby, Britmart, Parnell or Kingsland to sample some of Auckland's best coffee, micro breweries, boutique shopping and bars.

Looking for something different? Using Auckland as your base, head up to the Northland to discover the extraordinary beauty of the Bay of Islands, east to the stunning beaches and rainforests of the Coromandel Peninsula or south to the hot springs and bubbling mud pools of Rotorua.

There's so much to see and do in Auckland and the Auckland region that there's no time to waste - book your holiday package now.