The Auckland region includes four cities Auckland, Manukau, North Shore and Waitakere and three districts Franklin, Rodney and Papakura.
There are twelve Visitor Information Centres around the region. They provide impartial and comprehensive information, as well as reservation services.
Auckland, New Zealand is set between two sparkling harbours. It is a city at the edge of the ocean and is New Zealands largest city. Half urban and half marine, its a cosmopolitan experience wrapped up in a fascinating water world thats dotted with more than fifty islands.
Imagine an urban environment where everyone lives within half an hour of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and a dozen enchanted holiday islands. Add a sunny climate, a background rhythm of Polynesian culture and a passion for outstanding food, wine and shopping youre beginning to get the picture of Auckland.
In the Maori language, is known as Tamaki Makau Rau the maiden with a hundred lovers. It earned this name because it was a region coveted by many tribes. The blend of harbour, islands, Polynesian culture and modern city environment has created a lifestyle ranked amongst the best in the world.
The natural assets of Auckland have made it a dream destination for all kinds of travellers, from doing it on the cheap backpackers to cost is no issue super yacht owners.
2002 hosted one of the worlds greatest yachting events the Americas Cup and the city now has its own Americas Cup village to explore. However, you dont have to be a yachtie to appreciate what its surrounds have to offer.
Bustling shopping district, chic waterfront bars and restaurants are as much a part of things as the lovingly restored clapboard villas in the leafy inner suburbs of Ponsonby and Parnell. Theres plenty to see and do too visit the Auckland Museum with its impressive collection of Maori artefacts and Kelly Tarltons Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World, a unique attraction. Take the lift up the sky tower for an inspiring view of the city and its stunning surrounds, which beckon those with time to explore further a field.
For those with limited time Auckland is a wise choice for a short stay, not only for the range of accommodation and excursions on offer, but because the major sites of the Bay of Islands and Rotorua can be visited in a day trip from the city.
