Auckland, New Zealand Is
Metropolitan Capital of Vacations

The largest metropolitan area in New Zealand and, in fact, all of Polynesia, is Auckland, a city built on a volcanic field of 48 now extinct volcanoes on an isthmus that joins the Northland peninsula to the rest of the North Island. This is the “City of Sails,” named because of the numerous yachts present in its gulf harbor.

Auckland New Zealand has a million-plus population with an extensive system of busses, trains, ferries, taxis, and shuttles. But for most tourists, the best way to navigate the city map while sightseeing is a car rental, as public transportation can be frustrating.

Considered to have one of the best city lifestyles, the rich cosmopolitan center is balanced with urban great escapes just a half hour from downtown. Naturally, as a major tourism destination, there’s a plethora of things to do in Auckland, New Zealand. Sightseeing information points to facts about New Zealand at museums, art galleries, zoo, botanical gardens, and a brewery tour.

New Zealand vacation attractions include a climb on the Auckland Harbour Bridge, base jump on the cable controlled Sky Jump from the 192 meter-high Sky Tower, wine tasting tours, Rainbow’s End family theme park, Spookers haunted attraction, ferry ride to Rangitoto to climb its summit, skating along Tamaki Drive, and exploring Auckland’s many volcanic cones for panoramic cityscape views.

A 35-minute ride from downtown ferries you a world away from urban hustle on a variety of island cruises escapes in the Hauraki Gulf, where bush, beach, olive groves, wineries, arts and craft galleries, history, and more await at each unique island setting.

Restaurants and shopping play a strong role in Auckland, New Zealand tourism. Ponsoby Road is dotted with cafes and shops. Caluzzi Bar and Cabaret offers an award winning floorshow, dancing, and a great menu.

Auckland’s known for gourmet food and world class dining. Fine Japanese, Vietnamese, and other Pacific Rim cuisine is found at hundreds of restaurants featuring locally grown produce and regional specialties, accompanied by award winning wines, as would be expected from one of the world’s top winemaking regions.

Just west of the city is Auckland’s oldest wine growing region. Tourists looking for a spectacular drive through lush countryside will find it here. The daytrip can be complemented with classic Auckland, New Zealand cuisine or a side trip to the unique Beesonline Honey Centre, a café where you can watch bees make honey onsite or enjoy a tempting menu that utilizes indigenous herbs and spices.

Specialty stores in Auckland, New Zealand offer a broad selection of local and international food items. Auckland Fish Market features seafood and offers cooking lessons. Otara Markets offers lively, authentic local music, food, arts, crafts. The city’s emphasis on food is showcased in the annual Food Show as well as several food and wine events held throughout the year.

While in Auckland, stay at the Hotel Grand Chancellor for high-quality, luxurious accommodations.