Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand. With about 1.4 million people, about a third of the whole population lives there. The percentage of immigrants, mainly from Asia, the Pacific Islands and Europe, is especially high. Together with a relatively strong Maori population and the British culture, they make Auckland to a very multi-cultural city. You are sure to find restaurants of any kind and various events from different cultures throughout the year.

The city is rather spread out, with neighborhoods scattered around the city with many parks in between. Several of these parks are (extinct) volcanoes which offer not only a great place to relax but also a beautiful view across the city. For example, you can visit Mount Eden with its huge crater or One Tree Hill (nowadays without a tree) with its Obelisk dedicated to the Maori.

Auckland is built on a narrow isthmus and nearly 50 islands, which allows it to profit from two natural harbors. These are the Manukau Harbour in the south giving access to the Tasman sea and the Waitemata Harbour in the north giving access to the Pacific through the Hauraki Gulf with its many islands. Auckland is thus one of the few cities in the world having access to two major waters and there are plenty of inner city beaches to relax on. With so much water around, sailing plays a major role in the life of many Aucklanders. There are several marinas and sailing schools and from time to time, a major regatta is held here. This is why the city is called 'City of Sails'.

 Although the Airport is located next to the Manukau Harbour, the city centre and central business district borders the Waitemata Harbour. The city centre is marked by many skyscrapers and the sky tower. This is the business heart of New Zealand. 

Sky Tower
In 1997, the Sky City with its highlight, the Sky Tower, was built to refresh the image of downtown Auckland. The Sky Tower is 318 meters high, which makes it to the highest tower in the southern hemisphere. From its viewing platform, you can enjoy a 360° view of Auckland and its beautiful surroundings. You can also profit from this view while dining in the very good restaurant. This is perfect for a special evening, especially if you are able to catch the sunset, and you can profit from a beautiful view over an illuminated Auckland afterwards. If you prefer an adrenaline rush, you can jump from the tower or walk around the restaurant on a narrow metal grid.

View from the Sky Tower over Waitemata Harbour towards the Auckland Harbour Bridge.

Sailing
Probably because of its location, Auckland has the largest number of boats per person in the world. It is therefore the perfect place to learn how to sail in one of its many sailing schools. Once mastering this skill, you can rent a boat to explore Auckland's waters or join one of the monthly regattas, perhaps even the major annual regular sailing event, the Auckland Anniversary Regatta, which brought together more than 600 boats in 2011.

In fact, it is not that easy to reach some parts of Auckland without a boat if you use regular transport. Thus, you will find many tour operators and some ferries offering visits to many islands. Within a short boat ride, you will find all kinds of islands, ranging from small, rather secluded ones to islands profiting from undisturbed nature like Rangitoto and to inhabited ones like Waiheke with its wineries.

The Waterfront
During the last years, the Auckland Waterfront was turned from a rather dull centre into a lively entertainment area with restaurants, cafés and bars overlooking the harbor. Furthermore, there are many boutique shops and museums. With parks nearby, this area offers everything you need for a great time going out in the evenings or just taking a walk. 

Australia

New Zealand

Abroad