CAPITOLA YACHT CHARTERS The Hauraki Gulf is home to the city of Auckland and great boating holidays. One of the world's largest and most beautiful charter cruising areas with 1500 miles of coastline to explore, comprising numerous Islands with a wide choice of anchorages and unspoilt beaches. The Hauraki Gulf has a natural richness, environmental quality, biological diversity and landscape that make it outstanding and distinctive within New Zealand. For nearly 1000 years it has been a focal point for human activity and home to generations of residents. The Hauraki Gulf provides excellent year round sailing conditions with comfortable temperatures and average wind strengths of 10-25 knots. With over 80 Islands all within short sailing distances, the choice of activities is limitless. Popular destinations include: Rangitoto Island - 800 years old this is New Zealand's youngest volcano is 2310 hectares and included in the Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park. The island is a prominent landmark from every direction, rising to a cone shaped summit with three points - a walk to the summit provides magnificent views of the Hauraki Gulf. Waiheke Island - Home to some of New Zealand's best wineries and beautiful white sandy beaches. Waiheke is 12 nautical miles long and a favourite weekend getaway for Aucklanders. Kawau Island - Historically interesting, as firstly it was a home to manganese and copper mining, then in the late 1800's the Governor, Sir George Grey made the island his retreat. His home Mansion House, much later became a hotel, until more recently administrated and staffed by the Department of Conservation. The home is now a Historic Home museum. The island is a very popular spot with sheltered anchorage on the West side.