It’s the gateway to New Zealand for many, but it’s more than just a transit point – take time to explore this beguiling city. Fast-paced by New Zealand standards, the nation’s biggest centre covers 500 square kilometres, making it larger, geographically speaking, than London. But, set on three sparkling harbours, draped over 48 volcanic cones and bordered by rainforest in the west, this city is unlike any other: a colourful, modern and multicultural Pacific centre.

Highlights

Waitemata Harbour Dotted with yachts and spanned by the Auckland Harbour Bridge, the harbour is a fitting backdrop for the ‘City of Sails’. Volcanic cones There are 48 volcanic cones dotted around Auckland – Mount Eden (Maungawhau), the Auckland Domain (Pukekawa) and One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie) all offer great city views. Hauraki Gulf islands From the wildlife sanctuary of Tiritiri Matangi and Rotoroa Island to Waiheke Island, with its wineries and beaches, the Hauraki Gulf Islands are a ferry ride from the city. The waterfront Auckland’s waterfront offers superb dining – the vibrant Viaduct Harbour’s marina setting lined with restaurants including the Britomart precinct’s hip restaurants, cafés and bars, and Wynyard Quarter’s modern eateries. West Coast beaches West of Auckland, just a short drive away through the rainforest-clad Waitakere Ranges, lie the ruggedly beautiful wild black-sand surf beaches of Piha and Muriwai. Sky Tower At 328 metres, Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower is the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere. Take in 360-degree views from the observation deck, dare to walk around the top or brave a base-jump by wire.

Destinations

Auckland City Urban life in the nation’s biggest city. Waitakere Dramatic black-sand beaches and rainforest. Kumeu Wineries and market gardens. Piha West coast surf beach. Muriwai Wild black-sand beach. Orewa Bustling village on a beautiful golden beach. Waiwera Soak in the hot pools. Puhoi Living historic village. Warkworth Gateway to beaches and wineries. Matakana Wine country and white-sand beaches. Leigh Snorkel at a marine reserve. Waiheke Island Wineries and great beaches. Rangitoto Island Iconic volcanic cone. Kawau Island Quirky cultural history. Tiritiri Matangi Island Native bird sanctuary. Rotoroa Island Opened to the public in 2011 for the first time in 100 years.

Getting There and Around

Air Auckland International Airport has direct international flights from more than 35 destinations and domestic flights to most centres. Road Auckland is on SH 1 and has a comprehensive motorway system. Coach companies provide regular services. Local buses are frequent, operating out of a depot at Britomart Transport Centre in Queen Street. Auckland to Hamilton [126 km; 1 hr, 50 min] Auckland to Whangarei [165 km; 2 hr, 20 min] Auckland to Coromandel [168 km; 2 hr, 25 min] Auckland to Tauranga [205 km; 2 hr, 55 min] Auckland to Rotorua [234 km; 3 hr, 20 min] Auckland to Napier [421 km; 6 hr] Auckland to Wellington [658 km; 9 hr, 25 min] Rail TranzRail offers daily services to Wellington. There is a metropolitan rail service with its hub at Britomart. Ferry Services to Devonport, Hauraki Gulf Islands and other seaside suburbs depart from the waterfront at the foot of Queen Street. Refer to www.at.govt.nz for full timetables for bus, rail and ferry.