Auckland City

Auckland’s waterside location has fostered the locals’ love affair with the sea, earning this place the nickname “City of Sails“.

Auckland sprawls over a narrow isthmus between the sparkling waters of the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours. A cloak of rainforest covers the surrounding hills, dozens of dormant volcanic cones dot the landscape and enchanting holiday islands are scattered throughout the vast Hauraki Gulf. Two of the best island getaways are Waiheke Island and Great Barrier Island.

Auckland’s heart beats to a Polynesian rhythm, its people a melting pot of European, South Pacific and Asian cultures and a strong indigenous Maori heritage. This diversity brings with it an abundance of unique dining and shopping experiences.

Auckland’s temperate climate, easy access to the coast and variety of activities earn the city consistent top five rankings in international lifestyle surveys. Discover for yourself why it is one of New Zealand’s best destinations.

See the biggest collection of Maori taonga (treasures) in the world at Auckland War Memorial Museum, plus see a performance of traditional Maori songs and dances. Learn about New Zealand’s unique flora and fauna, and the European settlers who shaped its colonial heritage.

Jump off the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere – SkyJump is 192 metres of cable-controlled base jumping from the Sky Tower. Alternatively walk around the outside of the tower with SkyWalk, or just admire the view from the safety of the observation deck and restaurants.

Spend a day at Kelly Tarlton’s and discover the unique sea life that lives in and around New Zealand’s waters. Walk through an underwater glass tunnel, see real life King and Gentoo penguins or for the brave at heart, swim with stingrays and sharks!

Spanning the Waitemata Harbour, the Auckland Harbour Bridge offers spectacular views of Auckland city and the islands of the gulf. To admire these views and get the heart racing, climb over the bridge or bungy jump off it!

With its pristine native bush, coastal rainforest and rugged black sand beaches, Auckland’s west coast is a natural playground for visitors to explore. With hundreds of walking tracks and some of New Zealand’s best surf beaches, it’s easy to get active and discover the natural beauty – and it’s all within a 40 minute drive from downtown Auckland.

Karekare is one of Auckland’s most spectacular beaches, its isolation adding to its stunning natural beauty. Part of the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, Karekare was made famous by the Oscar winning movie ‘The Piano’.

Piha is one of Auckland’s most famous west coast black sand beaches. Part of the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, Piha is a popular spot for swimmers and surfers, surrounded by rugged cliffs and with the majestic Lion Rock standing guard over the beach, the scenery is awe inspiring.

White’s Beach is situated at the northern end of North Piha, accessible only by foot over Te Waha Point. Following the steep Laird Thompson Track over the headland, you can look out over Fisherman’s Rock.

Explore Auckland Super City

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