Been there, done that, was on the cover of their brochure in the early 90's. Good times, the horses were cool too. Gallop on the beach you say... Hell Yea.. Chick got bucked in the rocks coming down a hill. Funny stuff.
Depending on the time you have, do a "Kiwi Experience" tour. The YC are cool if you can get a ride or something is going on obv, but there is a ton to see really really close to Aukland that is better with a guide. They will get you to the cool stuff without all the planning. Glow worm caves were cool as was the blackwater rafting. https://www.kiwiexperience.com/. And you have to do a bungee.. The 4 wheeling was really cool down by Queenstown.Going to Aukland area in February for family wedding. My first visit to New Zealand. Looking for travel advice. Love to go for a sail on an F18 would be great - but will sail anything. Like visiting Yacht Clubs - member of several for reciprocity. Non- sail recommendations also welcome.
Depending on the time you have, do a "Kiwi Experience" tour. The YC are cool if you can get a ride or something is going on obv, but there is a ton to see really really close to Aukland that is better with a guide. They will get you to the cool stuff without all the planning. Glow worm caves were cool as was the blackwater rafting. https://www.kiwiexperience.com/. And you have to do a bungee.. The 4 wheeling was really cool down by Queenstown.
It was like MTV "Road Rules" back in the day... LOL. Wellington > Aukland BTW... More down to earth and the bay, well Channel, is cool.