New Zealand is a small island country surrounded by the ocean, known for its hot sun, polar glaciers, and unique wildlife such as kiwis and penguins. It is a place that is both amazing and inaccessible for tourists from the northern hemisphere. With a lot of water around it, sailing has become a national hobby, just like in Australia. They love sailing yachts and motor yachts alike.
Yachting in New Zealand can be compared to Italian wine or French perfume. People come here to explore the ocean, and the city of Auckland considered the Mecca for yachtsmen, has hosted America’s Cup twice. There are many bays, marinas, and yacht clubs throughout the country.
New Zealand is also called Aotearoa, meaning “Land of the Long White Cloud” in the Maori language. It was founded in 1840, and the first settlers arrived about 1000 years ago. Some of the stones here are over 500 million years old, dating back to the time when, as legend has it, the hero-demigod Maui fished North Island out of the sea with his magic fishing hook.
The North Island is one of the world’s two best sailing destinations, welcoming visitors with windswept coves and bays, lush vegetation, and the main city of the country, Auckland. It is a thriving international business center and a fantastic tourist destination with much to see and do, high-end cuisine, and boutique shopping. The South Island has a wild and rugged coastline, and spectacular scenery, and is home to Queenstown, known as the extreme sports capital of the world.
The South Island is glaciers, snow-capped mountains stretching into the sea, and untouched coasts. It is almost a primeval region.
The country’s beauty is undeniable, from lush rainforests and warm golden beaches to spectacular lakes and mountains, moody fjords, and trendy cities. New Zealand has a population of just under four million and is about the size of Japan, but it is amazingly pristine for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate.
If you’ve watched the Lord of the Rings trilogy, you’re already familiar with New Zealand’s landscapes. The snow-covered peaks around Mount Cook, also called Aoraki, which means “Piercing the Clouds”, rise from the unusually blue glacial lakes. On the south coast, waves break against rocks, and picturesque cliffs rise, while stunning fjords promise extraordinary adventure for sailors and plenty of hiking opportunities.
The northern island is full of windy bays and bays with tiny volcanic islands located nearby. There is a lot of vegetation and wild places here, but this region is more developed and populated. Auckland, the capital of New Zealand, is located here and is an international business center.
World-class diving spots can be found north of the Bay of Islands where you can spot whales, sea devils, and many other types of fish. The Marlborough Sounds is another popular luxury yacht charter destination, with spectacular fjords, secluded bays, and the best Sauvignon Blanc vineyards. However, nothing compares to the accessibility and beauty of the scenery with Hauraki Bay, where you can sail between Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula, and the Great Barrier Island.
In New Zealand, you will find a temperate climate, equipped and wild embankments, but most importantly, a lot of unusual places that you will not see anywhere else in the world. You will be able to visit the most popular points among yachtsmen, enjoy the stunning natural scenery, and challenge yourself.
Route
Yachting in New Zealand offers a range of exciting and luxurious experiences. If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand and want to explore the country’s stunning coastlines and picturesque islands, then a yacht charter is a perfect way to do it. Here is a suggested route for your New Zealand yacht adventure:
Day 1 – Auckland to Waiheke
On the first day of your trip, your luxury charter yacht will be waiting for you in Auckland. After exploring the city and its attractions, you will head to the island of Waiheke, famous for its wineries. Take a wine tour and enjoy some of the local fine wines, followed by a relaxing evening on the yacht.
Day 2 – Waiheke
Take in the scenic views of the island’s ominous volcano, Rangitoto, and enjoy a picnic amidst the flowers strewn on the rocky ground. Then, head out on a real wine tour, visiting some of the island’s more than 20 wineries. Afterward, taste some local lobsters and relax on the yacht.
Day 3 – Tryphena, Great Barrier
Spend the day at the former Midlands beach, swim, or go kayaking in Tryphena, the island’s most populated town. In the evening, you will head back to your yacht to relax and enjoy its luxurious amenities.
Day 4 – Harataonga Bay, Great Barrier
Explore the wild beauty of nature in Harataonga Bay. With no crowds of tourists or numerous yachtsmen, this place is perfect for enjoying extensive beaches that stretch over 1300 feet. In good weather, this place will become a real wonderland for you close to other people.
Day 5 – Kawau
Cross Hauraki Bay and find yourself off the coast of Kawau Island. Visit a beautiful Victorian house built in the 19th century where Sir George Grey, governor of New Zealand, lived. Enjoy lunch at the beach cafe, and then relax on your yacht for the rest of the day.
Day 6 – Whangaparaoa
Take a break at the northwestern tip of Whangaparaoa, where you can swim in the calm waters of a quiet harbor. Leave the yacht and take a kayak to swim through the mangrove forests, and put on comfortable shoes for a long walk through the heather fields. Some of the best golf courses in the world are here – enjoy a game and then head back to your yacht for a relaxing soak in the hot tub.
Day 7 – Auckland
On the last day of your trip, the captain will direct the yacht back to Auckland. Spend the day exploring the city’s shops and trying the local cuisine before heading to the airport.
In conclusion, yachting in New Zealand offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With stunning coastlines, picturesque islands, and a temperate climate, it’s a must-visit destination for yachtsmen looking for adventure and relaxation.
