Travel In Auckland, New Zealand
Dominated by water, Auckland - the city of sails - has an array of attractions available for any visitor. Despite being easily the largest city in New Zealand, public transport options can be scarce, so to get around the large metropolitan area with a minimum of fuss make sure that you carry a good Auckland city guide. It will definitely help you make the most of your time in this city of around 1.4 million people.
The main street in the central city is Queen Street, stretching north from Karangahape Road to Waitemata harbour. There are plenty of highlights around this part of Auckland including Aotea Square for markets and festivals, eating and drinking in Viaduct Basin and the Sky Tower, the tallest building the Southern Hemisphere at 328m.
Landmarks abound in the area, and any Auckland city guide should point out a few of them. One Tree Hill is a significant site for the people of Auckland (and the band U2 who wrote a song about it), while panoramic views abound from the top of Mount Eden, a dormant volcano. The large green space of Auckland Domain is also a great place to relax for an hour or two.
If sport is your preference you won't be disappointed in Auckland. Rugby union and cricket are the two most important sports, with national and international matches of both sports being played at Eden Park. Netball, tennis and rugby league are all also popular, with major facilities largely dedicated to each sport. Try to catch a game if you are in town.
Dotted around the city are several galleries and museums worth visiting. If your interest is in all things nautical check out the National Maritime Museum, while the Auckland Art Gallery and War Memorial Museum are both of major significance.
No Auckland city guide would be complete without mentioning the variety of excellent beaches in the area. Popular locations on Waitemata Harbour include Devonport, Takapuna and Mission Bay, while the wilder west coast harbours good surf at Piha and Muriwai. Waiheke Island in the Hauraki Gulf is also renowned for it's excellent beaches and wineries and is well worth a day trip via ferry from Auckland.
