While the City of Sails is beautiful all year round the beginning of spring in the southern hemisphere is the perfect time to visit. Synonymous with an outdoors life, there’s no better time to visit New Zealand and enjoy the fresh air. Generally dry and warm, the pleasant temperatures call out for a stroll in the hinterland. Remember to pack a couple of layers just in case though.

Fine wines, fresh food and friendly service make Auckland an epicurean dream. Perhaps surprisingly, the range of food on offer is what brings foodies back. 1st November sees the 10th annual Taste of Auckland Festival which brings together the city’s best chefs for a veritable feast on the waterfront.

One of the best places to imbibe lies a short ferry ride away on the stunning Waiheke Island. Nicknamed the Island of Wine for good reason, the vineyards and wine tours are the perfect places to discover the country’s delicious offerings.

Auckland is also the perfect starting point for exploring other parts of the Land of the Long White Cloud. A short flight away is the adventure capital of the world – Queenstown with its picturesque snow-capped peaks and cool, peaceful lakes.