When I visited New Zealand, I found that the city of Auckland is full of diversity and personality. It is New Zealand's largest city with a population of nearly 1.5 million. Auckland is a city where every one in six residents owns a boat and it is rightfully nicknamed the City of Sails. Cultured and cosmopolitan, progressive and historic, Polynesian and European, and accessible to beaches and forests, and, adventure sports and leisure activities, Auckland offers for everyone.
If you're looking for somewhere exciting to go to on your next vacation, Auckland is definitely the perfect place to be. Why do you ask? Below are some of my favourite things about Auckland, giving you several reasons why you shouldn't miss the opportunity to visit this magnificent city.
1.There's a myriad of daring adventures to be had.
Helicopter rides, hiking, motorbiking, kayaking, and bungee jumping are just a few of the popular activities within the city. When you travel to Auckland you’ll have the opportunity to learn how to do some of these activities on a sightseeing, adventure, or luxury tour.
2. The city is brimming with natural beauty.
Preserved parks, stunning gardens, sandy beaches, volcanoes, and beautiful alpine forests, make up most of Auckland.
3. The coastlines will leave you breathless.
One of the most amazing things about Auckland is that it is almost entirely enclosed by vast waters, creating amazing coastlines nearly all around the city. Some of the most unique coastal views I have ever seen were here in Auckland.
4. You must explore Waiheke Island.
The island isn't just sandy white beaches with huge rocks blanked in greenery. It's full of art galleries, vineyards, and flavorful wines. If you are interested in stunning views, and amazing wine, you cannot miss Waiheke Island; it has become known as New Zealand's 'Island of Wine' and is home to a talented group of award-winning winegrowers. They have successfully matched the climate of the island and ancient soil structures to the unique selection of classical grape varieties in order to produce red and white wines with distinctive flavours and experiences.
5. The zoo is an exciting adventure.
At the city zoo, you can visit over 1400 animals (135 species). Many of them are native to New Zealand. If you are a wildlife and animal lover, this zoo is the place for you!
6. Some of the most excellent restaurants are in Auckland.
There are many award-winning restaurants and eateries throughout the city. You must try foods authentic to the nation, such as a Hangi dish or Lolly cake. Some of the most delicious meals I have ever eaten were in New Zealand, foods like Lamb, Salmon, Shrimp and fresh fruit have heavily influenced the flavours and dishes traditional to New Zealand.
7. There's a lot of art to take in.
From the Auckland Art Gallery to the smaller galleries downtown, there is so much to see. Just walking through the city, you'll get to view a ton of street art, murals, and Maori treasures being sold all over.
8. The most stunning panoramic views everywhere you go.
No matter where you are, there's an extraordinary panoramic view to be admired. The Sky Tower provides the most stunning of them all.
9. There are incredible markets open every day of the week.
There are many diverse marketplaces throughout Auckland. Make sure you check them out for some great and traditional souvenirs.
10. The city has some of the nation's biggest ports and harbours.
Known as the "City of Sails," you'll undoubtedly notice the abundance of ports, harbours, and maritime activities. I especially loved seeing all sailing being done around the waters surrounding the city. Something I found really interesting was seeing all the children during the day sailing and thinking that they should be in school, but it turns out they were in school! Sailing is actually a course that is part of the curriculum for children in New Zealand! If you are interested in learning how to sail there is no better place than the amazing city of sails, and if you aren’t interested in learning you can book an amazing sailing tour around the island!
11. You can reach all of the best destinations by leaving from Auckland.
Just a few hours north of Auckland is the Bay of Islands, while in other directions, you can reach Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves, Rotorua, and the Coromandel Peninsula.
The pictures of New Zealand just don’t do it justice, to experience the beauty, the thrill and amazing cuisine Auckland has to offer, you must go! It is my goal to help you have the most amazing experience in New Zealand, just as I did. Make sure to reach out to me if you are interested in planning a one of a kind trip to New Zealand.
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