Originally Posted by Mapman

We made this trip in April. Arrival at the somewhat ungodly hour was made easier by picking up a car and driving to Thames, with one of the most remarkable sunrises I'd ever seen as we headed towards our breakfast in that small town. Our B&B was a little outside Thames and although somewhat surprised to see us at 0900 rather than in the late afternoon, let us get changed and dump our cases. Probably as well to let a B&B know if you'd like to do that...

If you're staying in Auckland, the Novotel at the airport offers a day room (although booking it means ringing them as I couldn't find any way to book this online). Then you could Uber into the city and your final hotel. We stayed at the very central and rather wonderful Braemar B&B - quirky, eccentric, friendly, fun. Otherwise, the Hilton at the Quayside is good.

Recommendation: take the ferry to Waiheke Island, then catch the bus to the incredible beach at Onetangi and get lunch at the Boathouse overlooking the South Pacific. Great food, great atmosphere, great views!

Enjoy yourself!