Auckland, known as the city of sails, is located in New Zealand’s North Island, and is one of the few cities in the world to have harbours on two separate bodies of water. In the centre, the iconic Sky Tower has views of Viaduct Harbour, which is full of superyachts and lined with bars and cafes. Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park, is based around an extinct volcano and home to the formal Wintergardens. Near Downtown, Mission Bay Beach has a seaside promenade.
Auckland’s amazing geography and warm, humid climate has inspired a lifestyle that’s regularly ranked in the world’s top ten. In just half an hour you can be almost anywhere: sailing to an island, trekking through the rainforest, picnicking on a volcano, sampling wines at a vineyard or wandering a wild, black sand surf beach.
For an island escape, choose between Waiheke, Motuihe, Rangitoto, or journey a little further to Tiritiri Matangi, Kawau or Great Barrier. Each island has a different character and different things to do.
To the west, north and south of Auckland you will be spoilt for choice with beaches and vineyards.
Auckland city is an infusion of exciting restaurants and bars. You’ll feast on culinary masterpieces that draw from the cuisine styles of Europe, the Mediterranean, Polynesia, Japan and Thailand. In the stylish precincts of Parnell, Ponsonby and Viaduct Basin, scores of restaurants compete for your attention.
The Sky Tower is a telecommunications and observation tower. Located at the corner of Victoria and Federal Streets within the city’s CBD, it is 328 metres tall, making it the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere and the 27th tallest tower in the world. It has become an iconic landmark in Auckland’s skyline due to its height and design. The tower is part of the SkyCity Auckland casino complex,
A reputation for great art and fashion makes Auckland a shopper’s paradise. Within the city zone you’ll find originality and flair everywhere you look. Local theatre and live music gigs are another opportunity to discover the creative side of New Zealand culture.
