The sparkling Hauraki Gulf, which lies between the Auckland region and the Coromandel Peninsula, is speckled with more than 50 islands and islets, many of which can be visited by sea or air. Its waters, which are sheltered from the Pacific Ocean by the Great Barrier Island, are great for fishing and there are many good swimming beaches along the coast.
The two biggest islands in the gulf are Waiheke Island and Great Barrier Island. Waiheke is a popular weekend retreat for Aucklanders, while Great Barrier is a rugged, unspoiled place that offers the opportunity to visit a part of the country most New Zealanders never get the chance to experience.
