This relaxed, cosmopolitan city lies between the Hauraki Gulf and Manakau Harbour. Surrounded by 48 dormant volcanoes and close to white sand beaches and lush rainforests, Auckland basks in a mild and sunny maritime climate. Known as the City of Sails, it is on the round-the-world sailing circuit, as well as past host and Defender of the America's Cup.

A bustle of ferry traffic departs from the city's terminal to neighbouring islands. The city is a stepping off point for New Zealand's booming outdoor adventure and ecotourism in both the North and South Islands. The country is renowned for its thermal activity, volcanoes, fjords and glaciers, prosperous horse country and award-winning wines.

The lively city centre is easily explored on foot, starting with the downtown waterfront and the New Zealand National Maritime Museum. The Skytower, the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, at 328m (1076ft), offers breathtaking views over the harbour and city. Passenger ferries ply the waterways to nearby small towns, islands and beaches.

Discover beaches and vineyards to the north, south and west, hike the rainforests in search of New Zealand's unique bird and tree species, or explore volcanic craters and lava caves.

Auckland is filled with trendy boutiques, cafes and galleries. The relaxed lifestyle, with its gardens, waterfront views and mild weather, earns it the repeated ranking of one of the world's most liveable cities.
Highlights
• Auckland Domain and Auckland Museum
• Auckland Art Gallery
• New Zealand National Maritime Museum
• Kelly Tarlton's Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World
• Sky Tower
• Auckland Botanic Gardens
• Lion Brewery
• Rangitoto Island

Auckland iSite Visitor Information Centre
The Atrium, Sky City, Corner of Victoria and Federal Streets
Tel: +64 (09) 363 7182.
Website: www.aucklandnz.com  

Auckland is New Zealand's centre for fashion and business. Queen Street is the downtown hub, with arcades, restaurants, fashion boutiques and stores. Ponsonby is the hip neighbourhood of trendy designer shops, bars and nightclubs. In Parnell, the up-market part of the city, Victorian villas have been transformed into boutiques and restaurants. New Zealand is popular for its sheepskin products, leather goods, gemstone jewellery and wines.

New Zealand cuisine is typically Pacific Rim, with a blend of European, Asian and Polynesian influences. Lamb, pork, venison and fresh seafood are often eaten in barbecues and outdoor cafes. Maori native dishes are cooked in a hangee (an underground hole lined with hot rocks).

The maritime climate is mild all through the year. Summers are sometimes humid, but temperatures average around 25˚C (75˚F). Occasional frosts occur in winter (June to August).

New Zealand

GMT + 12.

New Zealand Dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents.

English and Maori.

New Zealand's North Island, between the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

1.4 million (greater Auckland region).

Constitutional monarchy since 1907.

Largely Christian: Anglican, Presbyterian, Roman Catholic and Methodist are all represented.

Casual dress is widely acceptable. New Zealanders are generally very relaxed and hospitable. If invited to a formal Maori occasion, the hongi (pressing of noses) is common. Smoking is restricted where indicated. It is banned in pubs and restaurants as well as on public transport or in public buildings.

Tipping: Service charges and taxes are not added to hotel or restaurant bills. Tips are not expected.