Auckland is not the capital city of New Zealand, but it is the largest and most popular. Sited on the Hauraki Gulf, Auckland is also called the City of Sails, so numerous are the boating enthusiasts. There are around a million and half people in Auckland, and for such a small city it is immensely spread out.
Although the best areas to concentrate on are downtown (majorly renovated over the last twenty years to be the perfect balance of chic, avant garde and relaxed.
Background
New Zealand is an underestimated nation. Tiny as it is, at the bottom of the world, it has nonetheless been a political, artistic and social pioneer: New Zealand was the first country in the world that granted women the vote and almost a century later was the first nation in the world to denounce the use of nuclear power – controversially banning US nuclear-powered ships from New Zealand waters. Auckland was the site of a standoff between a US battle-cruiser and almost a thousand small boats skippered by civilians who blocked its path. In true David and Goliath style, there was even one protester who paddled in front of the massive ship on his surfboard.
Shopping and Entertainment
Auckland is a den of renowned international designers, and shoppers should head to the flagship Zambesi store in Vulcan Lane for cutting edge fashions (followed by the best coffee in the country just across the laneway). While the city center is filled with galleries, restaurants and theaters (wander at leisure, and in complete safety) the chicest suburb is about ten minutes drive away. Ponsonby Village is where the Ladies Who Lunch spend their days. The design of Ponsonby, with its many walkways and boulevards, gives it a permanently summery feeling. Afternoon lounging here is a pleasure – a glass of fine New Zealand wine and a good couple of hours of people-watching is the perfect afternoon here.
Places to See
New Zealand has a unique heritage. The Maori people were one of the only indigenous tribes in the world to fight the Europeans – and win. This warrior race is very much a part of today's New Zealand (Maori and English are the two official languages) and you can't visit Auckland without learning something about it. TIME Unlimited NZ Tours & Travel offer the very best Auckland Tours, with a range of options: Guided Wilderness Walks, Kayaking & Kayak Fishing Adventures, Kite Fishing, Auckland Maori Culture Tours and Marae Experiences. A Marae – pronounced Mah-RYE - is the Maori word for village and far from being a preserved reminder of the past, they are commonly used today as gathering places for weddings (lasting three days) and tangi – funerals (also lasting three days) or simply for the sake of a good party (often more than three days!).
Things to Do
Take a half hour catamaran ride into the Hauraki Gulf the Waiheke Isalnd. Translating as 'Cascading Waters' Waiheke is essentially a beach-lined, idyllic suburb of Auckland – but the only way to get there is on a boat that runs past a dormant volcano. This is the perfect weekend getaway (a Bed & Breakfast will cost around US$300 for the weekend and the local wines are unmissable.
Hotels
Back in Auckland, a hotel room downtown will set you back about US$150 – US$300 per night.
Use the Hotelsio Rate Finder on the left to find cheap hotels in Auckland.
(Photo:Fotolia/Al Teich)
