St Heliers is the last of the bays east of and close to Auckland City. A bus trip from downtown Auckland takes you round the waterfront drive through Okahu Bay, Orakei, Mission Bay and Kohimarama to St Heliers where there are cafes and restaurants and good local shopping, with the sparkling waters of the harbour always in sight. The waterfront promenade is lively and picturesque.

The Waitemata Harbour (Waitemata being Maori for 'sparkling waters') is probably one of the most beautiful boating harbours in the world with its numerous islands dotted about the sheltered gulf. There are many and varied water activities available, including a 10 minute ferry trip to Devonport - a quaint suburb on the North Shore - trips to Rangitoto, Waiheke and other islands, fishing trips, the famous Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World and Antarctic Experience, windsurfing, kayaking, sailing, charter boat rental, and many more.