Three to four days covers the essentials. Spend one on the waterfront and the Sky Tower, one climbing a volcano such as Mount Eden, and one on a ferry to Waiheke Island or Rangitoto. With an extra day, head west to the black-sand surf beaches of Piha or Muriwai.

No, Wellington is the capital. Auckland was founded as the capital in 1840 and held the role until 1865, when it moved to Wellington, which sits closer to the South Island. Auckland remains the country's largest city, its economic center and the main arrival point for international visitors.

Take a passenger ferry from the downtown ferry terminal to Matiatia Bay, a crossing of about 40 minutes. Sailings run through the day, and a few go via Devonport and take a little longer. On the island, buses, taxis and e-bikes link the beaches, villages and vineyards.