Rarely can a cosmopolitan, commercial center be described as quaint, but safe, clean, and green Auckland is just that. Auckland may not provide the same level of cultural activities as its international counterparts. Nor is it the dream destination of travelers looking to experience the legendary Kiwi countryside. However, with its perfect balance of big city and the great outdoors, it is undeniably unique.
Auckland History and Background
New Zealand became a British colony in 1840, with Auckland serving as the nation’s capital until 1865, when the seat of the government moved to Wellington. Despite this loss of status, Auckland quickly became New Zealand’s fastest growing city. Today, multicultural Auckland is home to approximately one third of the country's population, and boasts the largest Polynesian community in the world, a sizeable Asian population, and a growing community of European, American, and Latino expats.
Auckland Geography and Orientation
Auckland City is situated on the Auckland isthmus, which connects the Northland Peninsula to the rest of New Zealand’s North Island. To the south is Manukau Harbour, and to the north is Waitemata Harbour, which feeds into the Hauraki Gulf. The heart of the city, and home to many tourist attractions, is the Central Business District (CBD), the compact area between the waterfront and Karangahape Road (K’ Rd.).
The city has sprawled in order to accommodate its growing population without sacrificing the Kiwi dream of living in a house with a garden. Unfortunately, public transportation is limited (most locals rely on cars). But what is available is modern and efficient, and goes to most places of interest.
What To Do and See in Auckland
- At 328 meters, Auckland’s Sky Toweris the 12th tallest tower in the world, and three public observation decks offer 360-degree views. (Cnr. Federal & Victoria Sts. Open Sun-Thur 8:30am-11pm, Fri-Sat 8:30am-midnight, Adults $28 *). Alternatively, take a ferry ride to the volcanic Rangitoto Islandin the Hauraki Gulf, where a summit walk leads to panoramic views of Auckland.
- The marinas and harbors of the “City of Sails” are filled with expensive boats used for sailing and island hopping. There are over 100 beaches within an hour of downtown Auckland, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and jet skiing. Viaduct Harbour, the city’s developed waterfront, is home to fancy hotels, shops, restaurants, and bars.
- Spend an afternoon in one of Auckland’s 26 regional parks. Dating from 1845 and occupying a volcanic crater, the impressive Domain is 85 hectares of gardens, greenhouses, bushes, ponds, and playing fields. Much less imposing is pretty Myers Park (nestled between K Rd. and Sky Tower), which hosts a reproduction of Michelangelo’s Moses. Adjacent to the University of Auckland is the manicured Albert Park, home to sculptures, canons, and coeds.
- New Zealand’s most extensive collection of national and international art is divided between the two buildings of the Auckland Art Gallery – the Main Gallery (currently closed for renovation) and the New Gallery. (Cnr. Wellesley & Kitchener Sts. Open daily 10am-5pm, free). The New Zealand National Maritime Museum chronicles the country’s seafaring heritage and organizes sailing trips. (Cnr. Quay and Hobson Sts., Viaduct Harbour. Open daily 9am-6pm, Adults $16). The comprehensive Auckland Museum, situated in the Domain, provides insight into all things Kiwi, including the country’s indigenous peoples, natural history, and war record. (Open daily 10am-5pm, $5 donation)
For more information, visit the Auckland Regional Council or Auckland City Council website.
* Prices listed in New Zealand Dollars. All prices and schedules subject to change.
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