Auckland - The City of Sails
This modern, vibrant city is New Zealand’s largest and a melting pot of culture, particularly from the South Pacific nations. The city is nestled between the Waitemata & Manukau Harbours meaning Aucklanders are never more than 30 minutes drive from the coast making it an aquatic playground aptly hailed as ‘The City of Sails’.
Population
- Auckland City 400,000
- Auckland Region 1.3 million
Driving Distances
- Auckland to Paihia 240 kms, 4 hrs
- Auckland to Thames 110 kms, 1 hr 30 mins
- Auckland to Rotorua 235 kms, 3 hrs
- Auckland to Waitomo 200 kms, 3 hrs
- Auckland to Lake Taupo 280 kms, 4 hrs
- Auckland to Wellington 660 kms, 8 hrs
- Auckland City to Auckland Airport 21 kms
Top Natural Attractions
- Dozens of beautiful beaches ranging from the wild black-sand beach of Muriwai to the golden-sand beaches around Takapuna.
- Auckland Harbour - stroll around Viaduct Basin with its cafes, bars and restaurants or take to the water on a harbour cruise or thrilling racing yacht.
- Explore the easily accessible off shore islands of Rangitoto, Tiritiri Matangi, Kawau or Waiheke.
- Auckland Botanic Gardens and Parnell Rose Gardens.
- Panoramic view along Tamaki Drive, home to some of Auckland’s most prestigious houses.
- Hundreds of walking trails through native forest in the Waitakere Ranges.
- Tour some of the regoins 80 wineries.
Best Shopping Suggestions
- The Dress-Smart mail for factory outlet stores.
- The weekend markets: Aotea Square, Otara Market on Saturdays and Avondale Market on Sundays.
- Explore the galleries and boutiques of historic Devonport, a 10 minute ferry ride from downtown.
- Designer shopping along Queen Street and High Street.
Did You Know
- Auckland has over 800 parks and reserves including the dormant volcanic cones of Mt Eden, One Tree Hill and Rangitoto Island. The city itself is surrounded by the remnants of 48 volcanic cones.
- Auckland is rumoured to have the world’s highest boat ownership per capita.
Weather
Auckland, NZ
Temperature: 57°F (14°C)
Humidity: 72.1%
Sky Conditions: partly cloudy
Conditions: clear
Wind: from the WSW at 22 mph
Last Updated: 09/03/2010 4:00 pm
Travel Itineraries
There are limitless options for routes and activities in New Zealand. Our itinerary suggestions will give you a few ideas of the range of experiences on offer.
Included are some of the more famous destinations and highlights along with some of the lesser known but equally breathtaking sights.
Use them as a guide to help plan a perfect New Zealand holiday.
Travel Insurance ?
What should my travel insurance cover? Tips when buying travel insurance in order to avoid canceling your trip or cutting is short.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing has grown in popularity in recent years especially with the introduction of rock climbing walls and gyms.
Apart from the indoor activities, New Zealand has some of the best natural climbing areas in the world.