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Information on Auckland

The amazing city of Auckland offers a melting pot of cultures, with Asians, Polynesians and Pakeha (people of European descent) all making their mark. Auckland is also blessed with a magnificent setting between two large bays where the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea come within 14kms of each other. The ‘City of Sails’, as it is known, hosts many sailing events and offers an energetic and delightful atmosphere

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Key Attractions

There is an array of excellent, amusing sights in Auckland. Kelly Tarltons Antarctic Encounter is a superb place to see king and gentoo penguins and other creatures; you can even ride heated, soundproofed snowcats and enter the frozen landscape. Underwater World, filled with plentiful undersea life, is equally amazing. Rainbows End Theme Park, encompassing nine hectares of rides, is suitable for the whole family.

A must-see is the Sky Tower - New Zealands most popular paid attraction. At 328m, it is the tallest building in the southern hemisphere. Also of interest, the Auckland Museum is scenically surrounded by parks and gardens, and is home to the largest collection of Maori and Polynesian artefacts in the world. Auckland Zoo is one of Australasias leading zoos and houses New Zealands largest collection of native and exotic species. Meanwhile, Auckland Art Gallery is the leading New Zealand art gallery, with over 10,000 New Zealand and European works.

Two of the best views of the city are found atop Mount Eden and One tree Hill, both of which are part of a number of dead volcanic mounds that are dotted about suburban Auckland. The America’s Cup Village and Via Duct basin is a popular entertainment precinct that was developed for this famous regatta and today is home to some impressive yachts, along with restaurants and pubs.

Out and About

Howick Historical Village, in the citys Pakuranga suburb, offers insight into New Zealands early colonial days; while Ambury is a working farm near Manukau Harbour. Daytrips can be made to the Northlands and the stunning Bay of Islands, including the historic sites of Waitangi and Russell. To the east of Auckland is the Coromandel, covered in verdant forest and blessed with fantastic private beaches. Also within an easy drive is Rotorua, the countrys premier tourist town.

One of the most popular day trips is across the harbour to Stanley Point and Devonport, where you will find quaint suburban seaside villages with beaches and leisure options.

Leisure Options

Good swimming beaches are found nearby at Kohimarama and Mission Bay, while the Hauraki Gulf, to the east, is dotted with islands

Weather in Auckland

New Zealand weather is very changeable, experiencing four seasons in one day is quite possible. The North Island has mild winters and warm and humid summers.

Auckland Partner Sites from Essential Travel

Tipi & Bobs Waterfront Lodge
Situated on Tryphena Beach front, with amazing sea views, clear sparkling waters you can sit and watch the dolphins play. Great Barrier Island NZ is 90km Northeast of Auckland just a 1/2 hour flight to a remote place where tranquility is a way of life, an Island entirely powered by alternative energy power systems. We will make your stay a memorable one. Hospitality is our business. Qualmark three star plus self contained and serviced accommodation, licensed restaurant and bar. Packages are arranged for you to have a hassle free holiday.

Nomads Fat Camel Hostel and Bar
Affordable accommodation and adventure holidays for the budget traveller in central Auckland. Close to the harbour, Americas Cup Village, restaurants and theatres.

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