Auckland
Auckland
Surrounded by rainforest in the west, Auckland is centred between two harbours and sits on 48 volcanic cones
Surrounded by rainforest in the west, Auckland is centred between two harbours and sits on 48 volcanic cones
Auckland, located in the North Island of New Zealand, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the Hauraki Gulf and the Waitakere Ranges, Auckland is a hub of culture, history, and adventure. The city has a rich Maori heritage, which is reflected in its many cultural attractions, including the Auckland War Memorial Museum and the Auckland Domain, which is home to the Auckland Museum and the Wintergardens. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Tamaki Maori Village, where they can witness the powerful cultural traditions and practices of the Maori people. For those interested in outdoor adventures, Auckland is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and mountain biking in the Waitakere Ranges, to kayaking and sailing in the Hauraki Gulf, there's plenty to keep visitors active and engaged. The city is also home to some of the best beaches in the world, including the iconic black-sand surf beach at Piha. Food and drink are also a major highlight of any visit to Auckland. The city boasts a thriving food scene, with a wide variety of cuisines on offer, including traditional New Zealand fare, Asian, and European. The city is also home to many world-class restaurants and bars, as well as a thriving cafe culture that caters to coffee lovers. For those interested in shopping, Auckland is a shopper's paradise, with a diverse range of retail options, from high-end designer boutiques to quirky vintage shops. The city is also home to many markets, including the bustling Auckland City Farmers' Market and the Parnell Farmers' Market, both of which offer a range of fresh, local produce. For those seeking a cultural experience, Auckland has plenty to offer. The Auckland Art Gallery is one of the largest art museums in New Zealand and showcases a diverse range of art and cultural exhibitions. The Civic Theatre is also a must-visit for those interested in performing arts, offering a wide range of theater, dance, and music performances throughout the year. Finally, Auckland is a great base from which to explore the wider North Island of New Zealand. The city is located close to many of New Zealand's top attractions, including the Waitomo Caves, the Bay of Islands, and the Coromandel Peninsula. Whether you're looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, Auckland has something to offer every traveler.
Auckland has long been desired for its fertile land and harbours rich with seafood. Numerous Maori tribes have fought over this fought over this stunning city earning it the name Tamaki-Makau-Rau or ‘the maiden with a thousand lovers’. For many, this cosmopolitan and culturally diverse city is seen as nothing more than a gateway to New Zealand.
A holiday to Auckland is however a fascinating experience in its own right, and a must stop destination on any any New Zealand holiday itinerary. Auckland covers 500 square kilometres making it similar in size to Los Angeles and geographically bigger than London. Surrounded by rainforest in the west, Auckland is centred between two harbours and sits on 48 volcanic cones.
Auckland holidays in New Zealand offer an array of experiences that appeal to diverse group of travellers. Sightseeing is of course at the top of the list for those on holiday in Auckland, and tourists will not be disappointed. Auckland's landscape is dominated by volcanic hills, many of which were once the site of fortified villages. This extinct volcanoes are not only responsible for the city's unique character but they also provide those on an Auckland holiday in New Zealand with some of the best views of the city.
Perhaps the best views of Auckland however are from the sea- and holidays in Auckland are certainly popular with people that love the water. The Waitemata and Manukau harbours sandwich the city and the city is fondly known as 'the city of sails' because Auckland has more boats per head than anywhere else in the world. Holidays to Auckland will appeal to anyone who wants to experience some of the best beaches, swimming, diving, fishing, sailing, windsurfing and water sports in the country.
There are so many attractions in Auckland that one trip will just not be enough to experience everything Auckland has to offer
Auckland enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and cool damp winters. Rainfall is moderate, with the wettest period being in the winter months of June, July and August. The dries and the driest period is in the summer months of December, January and February. Auckland rarely experiences severe weather events and snow is extremely rare.
Auckland tends to be busy during the Easter weekend, the Labor Day in late October and the mid-year school holidays. Summer is undoubtedly the best season for beach whether with January and February proving to be the most popular months. December and March usually remain warm and can even get hot.
The annual Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta attracts local and international entrants on the last Monday in January. The Devonport Food & Wine Festival is held in the Windsor Reserve in late February and offers non-stop entertainment, samples from 20 wineries, and food galore. The biennial Auckland Festival, a premier arts-and-cultural event, is held in the last week of September in odd-numbered years and it celebrates Auckland's distinct characteristics and especially its Pacific style. New Zealand Fashion Week, held in October, presents over 60 New Zealand designers to the world. International buyers and media arrive to check out fashion that is rapidly becoming a "must-see" on the global fashion map. The fun Round the Bays Run is held in late March and attracts runners from around the South Pacific who participate in the 8km (5-mile) run around the central bays.
