Auckland
(population 1.3 million)Maori settlement in Auckland goes 800 years back in time. In the 21st century the Maori influence is still prevalent. It is recognized as the largest Polynesian city in the world. Furthermore Auckland has a very high living standard and suits everyone’s needs. It offers many Outdoor activities, adventure sports like bungy jumping, good (and trendy) restaurants, clubs and bars, nice museums panoramic views and more.
Outdoor
Beaches
Auckland is blessed with a wide variety of nice Beaches. Some examples are St Heliers Bay, Mission Bay, Cheltenham, Milford and Browns Bay.
Extreme(r) sports
In Auckland (like in Queenstown) many extreme(r) sports can be undertaken. Examples are skydiving, bungy jumping, sky jumping, abseiling, bridge climbing and sky tower climbing.
Kayaking
There are several companies renting out kayaks. Paddling around is a nice way to explore Auckland’s waters.
Marine mammal
It is possible to swim with dolphins. There is a company were you can book this adventure.
Sailing and cruising
In the “City of Sails” you sail perfectly. Sailing in the harbor of Auckland gives you “The Auckland Feeling”. There are many companies offering (sailing) cruises on Auckland’s waters.
Scenic driving routes
Tamaki Drive is a famous drive in Auckland. For more detailed information please visit the tourist information.
Scuba diving
Auckland’s waters are suitable for diving. You can dive on your own. You can also book a diving course if you need it or like it.
Surfing
There are some good surf Beaches. It is at various beaches possible to book a surf course.
Tramping
There are many nice places in Auckland to walk. Auckland encompasses many volcanoes which are amazing places to walk on; they offer great views. Examples of nice places to walk are Mt Eden, One Tree Hill, Mt Victoria and the Coast to Coast Walkway. Please visit the tourist center and or DOC (Department of Conservation) for additional information about tramping in Auckland.
In addition: the parks in Auckland are also nice places to visit and to have a short walk in. Parks in Auckland: Albert Park, Auckland Domain, Parnell Rose Gardens, Eden Gardens, Wintergarden, Cornwell Park, Ambury Farm Park and Auckland Botanical Gardens.
Culture and Entertainment
Cultural activity
Auckland Zoo
This is not a huge Zoo but definitely a nice one to visit.
Lions Breweries
This brewery has transformed itself in a place were you can learn how beer is made. It is a real “beer experience”.
Rainbow’s End Adventure Park
Fun for old and young.
Stardome Observatory
Here the sky with its many stars can be viewed.
Cultural buildings and places
Alberton House
This is a historic classic colonial style mansion in Auckland.
Howick Historical Village
This is a “village” of 30 restored 19th century buildings.
Sky Tower
This tower is part of the City Complex. This is a complex consisting of a casino, restaurants, cafes, bars and a hotel. The tower is 328 meter high and is considered as the tallest building south from the equator.
Festivals
Aotearoa Maori Performing Arts Festival
This festival takes place in February and will offer you a great opportunity to witness some Maori Culture.
Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta
Sail event. It takes place in January.
Comedy Festival
Local and international talent will make you laugh in May.
Devenport Food & Wine Festival
This takes place in February.
Mission Bay Jazz & Blues Street Festival
Lots of Jazz and Blues. This festival takes place in February.
Pasifika Festival
This Polynesian party takes place in March.
Galleries
Auckland Art Gallery
The main topic of this gallery is New Zealand (including Maori) art.
Museum
Auckland Museum
This museum, which lies in a beautiful scenery, displays Maori Culture. It also contains a part focusing on natural scenery. Finally it features aspects of New Zealand at war.
Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World
A nice place to go to also when being accompanied by children.
Museum of Transport & Technology (Motat)
This is an extensive museum which displays aircrafts, electric trams, and other exhibits of transport. This museum provides information about communication methods, energy and so on as well.
Natural Maritime Museum
This is “the” place to learn about New Zealand’s History on sea. It displays many boats, from a Maori canoe to a modern high tech sailing yacht.
Navy Museum
This museum features New Zealand’s navy History.