Explore New Zealand by yacht

New Zealand is a country that has it all. While the far north has subtropical weather during summer, in the South Island you can climb glaciers. You can find vineyards, bungee jumping, whale-watching from the beach and legendary fish and chips on your New Zealand yacht charter.

Many of the coastal areas enjoy good temperatures year-round, not to mention optimal sailing conditions and a topographic landscape that is hard to outshine for its natural beauty. Planning a yacht charter to this island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean is all about fun, exploration, and adventure.

Auckland, City of Sails

Based around two large harbours, Auckland is renowned for its beaches, rainforest-covered ranges, and numerous islands. Known as the City of Sails, so-called for the number of yachts that sail in the harbours and adjoining Hauraki Gulf. Its distinctive cruising grounds make it well-positioned to start or end a yacht charter.

Waiheke Island

As the second-largest island in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand and just a 30-minute cruise from Auckland, Waiheke Island is a popular yachting hub. There you will find boutique vineyards, aromatic olive groves and long stretches of golden sandy beaches. Drop anchor in a secluded bay or venture inland to hike the island’s bush-clad hills.  

Snorkel, fish or kayak

Deep Water Cove (Maunganui Bay) on the Cape Brett Peninsula is a snorkelling haven, favoured for the clarity of its water and the abundance of marine life. Two highlights include reef snorkeling where a large variety of fish gather, and a scenic archway with an amazing underwater garden. For those not wanting to spend all day in the water, venture along the coast by kayak. 

Explore the historic town of Russell

A stroll along the oceanfront promenade will take you past original street names, and buildings that date back to the 1830s, including cafes, restaurants, and art galleries. Russell was originally the country’s first seaport, but today visitors like to find the beaches away from the hustle of town, such as Oneroa Bay, where you can swim, fish and picnic on the sand.

Coromandel Peninsula  

If you are looking for beaches with a laidback vibe, then the Coromandel Peninsula is your place. The 85km (53mile) long peninsula serves as a natural barrier protecting the Hauraki Gulf from the mighty Pacific Ocean. It gives rise to steamy geothermal waters where visitors can dig their own private hot pool, as well as bush walks through the lush vegetation and the heritage Hauraki Rail Trail, which is a cyclist’s dream.  

Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds is a collection of ancient sunken river valleys filled with the waters of the Pacific Ocean. Caused by land subsidence and rising sea levels, it’s known today as a paradise of secluded bays, and a must on your charter itinerary. Equally well suited to quiet reflection in sheltered coves or a day of watersports, it also offers some memorable hikes with epic vistas for those who reach the top. 

Wellington, the capital 

Finish your New Zealand yacht charter in the capital city of Wellington, known for colourful timber houses and restaurants - with more eateries and bars per capita than New York City. On occasion, strong winds blow through the Cook Strait, leading to the nickname ‘Windy Wellington,’ but for those on a sailing yacht charter, it’s a welcome sea breeze and idyllic end to a yachting vacation.