Treasure island
It’s sad enough that the Elephanta Festival hasn’t taken off this year, and the historic caves continue to lie in ruin. Waiheki, a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, is a vineyard haven, offers a second home/retreat to many Aucklanders and makes for the ideal weekend escape with varied options ranging from kayaking, walking trails around its varied topography, ancient Maori sites, and even stunning wedding locales at its landscaped vineyard resorts!
About the island: www.waihekenz.com
For an island tour: www.ananda.co.nz


It’s possible to chill at vineyards (Stonyridge on Waiheki Island, in pic) over wine, great food over a relaxed weekend.

Coastal attraction
Be it the clean shorelines, scenic promenades or tastefully done sea-facing cafes and restaurants, it’s all here. Rules are abided by; and unlike in Mumbai, civic sense is applause-worthy at every square mile of their shoreline. Beach strips abound and make for a safe place to take a dip, sip on a beer or chill. Sea-kissed restaurants and promenades like those at Mission Bay, Kohimarama, St Heliers Bayor, Ladies Bay and by the Ferry Building offer stunning views, especially at sunset. Blessed with hundreds of km of pristine coastline, it’s believed to have the largest boat ownership per capita in the world.

Eat at: Harbourside Seafood Bar & Grill, www.harbourside.co.nz