Matakana Coast Wine Country accommodation from NZ$146

While you're on the coast, you'll have the opportunity to go surfing, sailing, snorkelling, scuba diving, horse riding, fishing and canoeing! One of the best spots for snorkelling and scuba diving is the Goat Island Marine Reserve, where you can check out the amazing sea life below the surface. From the list of activities above, you've probably gathered that the Matakana Coast locals are a fairly active bunch. You're right! And, their fitness levels are put to the test each year at the Omaha Classic Run/Walk, held every April. Omaha Bay is gorgeous, with stunning white sand, safe swimming areas and fantastic surf. It's definitely worth paying a visit to the bay, even if you can't make it for the Omaha Classic.

Market lovers will enjoy browsing the many markets on the Matakana Coast. There's the Matakana Village Farmers Market every Saturday morning, where you can pick up locally grown produce and fresh roasted coffee. There's also the Puhoi Farmers Market, held on the last Sunday of the month, and the Matakana Country Park Family Markets, every Saturday morning. This market is particularly good if you've got kids, because they can enjoy the playground, petting zoo and pony rides. Besides markets, there are also lots of art galleries and workshops to browse in the area, as well as a number of wineries, a chocolaterie and a gelataria.

The easiest way to get to the Matakana Coast is to jump aboard one of these cheap flights to Auckland. There are a few buses that run from Auckland to some of the towns on the Matakana Coast. However, you're best off hiring a car at the airport to get around and explore. The drive from Auckland to the coast is only an hour long, anyway. While you're in the area, it's worth visiting the secluded Kawau Island, which you can reach by catching a ferry from Sandspit. It's perfect if you like a remote, peaceful getaway; or even if you just want to spend the afternoon wandering around the island's historic sites.

A coastal holiday with gourmet food and plenty of beachside activities – wot more could you ask for? Book your flights and Matakana Coast accommodation today!