Saturday 27 April 2013

Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand's largest city and main transport hub. Make sure you stop and enjoy the shopping, dining and natural wonders Auckland has to offer.



Imagine an urban environment where everyone lives within half an hour of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanted holiday islands. Add a sunny climate, a background rhythm of Polynesian culture and a passion for outstanding food, wine and shopping, and you’re beginning to get the picture of Auckland, our largest and most diverse city.

Shopping and dining
Auckland is a shopaholic's paradise, with everything from top-end designers to open air street markets. While you're here, enjoy the city's diverse cafes, restaurants and nighlife. Favourite downtown spots include Wynyard Quarter, the Viaduct Harbour and the Britomart precinct.

Once you've seen the city, head out to one of Auckland's four distinct wine districts where you can sample local vino against the backdrop of rolling hills and sparkling ocean.

City of Sails
Wherever you are in Auckland, you’re never far from the water. From wild West Coast surf beaches to the tranquil Hauraki gulf, the sea and all its attractions are why this is known as the City of Sails. Make sure you get out on the water while you're here, whether it’s a relaxing harbour cruise, a fishing charter, whale and dolphin spotting, kayaking or surfing.

Holiday islands
The Hauraki Gulf has a vast collection of tranquil islands to explore. The most populated is Waiheke Island, just a 40 minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. The landscape here is a picturesque blend of farmland, forest, beaches, vineyards and olive groves.

Volcanoes and adventure
Auckland region is dotted with 48 volcanic cones, which provide spectacular panoramic views of the city and the perfect spot for a picnic. Rangitoto Island, just a 25 minute ferry ride from Auckland, is the city's most iconic volcano and a favourite spot for hikers and bird watchers.

If it's adrenaline you’re after, head up the Sky Tower, the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere – the brave can even jump off it. Here in Auckland you may also like to try bridge climbing, bungy jumping, jetboating, skydiving, mountain biking or canyoning.

A city like no other
In the Maori language Auckland is known as Tamaki-Makau-Rau - ‘the maiden with a hundred suitors’, because it was a region coveted by many tribes. The name still holds true, as Auckland's lifestyle is ranked amongst the best in the world.

Come and experience it for yourself. A few days in Auckland, building in a tour or two, is the perfect beginning to your New Zealand vacation.