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Auckland is known as the City of Sails

Auckland is known as the City of Sails for many good reasons. It’s rumoured that Auckland has the highest number of boats per capita in the world, testament to its America’s Cup victories. Your on-the-water experience of Auckland could be as thrilling as a white-knuckle race on board a grand prix racing yacht or as laidback as a cruise on a ferry to a seaside suburb or one of dozens of idyllic islands. It has safe swimming beaches, sheltered bays and wild surf breaks. Auckland’s warm coastal climate encourages other outdoor pursuits too – from hiking to mountain biking to horse riding, or even a visit to New Zealand’s premier theme park.

It’s an archaeological wonder, built on an isthmus of 48 volcanoes, once home to Maori tribes which cultivated its rich soil. Nowadays Auckland’s fertile valleys and islands are home to award-winning wineries. Indulge in Auckland’s shopping, nightlife and unrivalled cuisine. Whether you are a doing-it-on-the-cheap backpacker or you only live in luxury, you won’t be disappointed.
Volcanic Auckland
Auckland straddles an isthmus peppered by 48 dormant volcanic cones, all of which have erupted in the last 150,000 years. Among the most prominent is Mt Eden near the central city, which boasts a vast crater and magnificent 360 degree views across to both the Pacific and Tasman coasts. Don’t forget your camera!

Devonport - Take an inexpensive cruise on the spectacular Waitemata Harbour by taking the passenger ferry over to Devonport from downtown.

Take in the sea air and fabulous views back to the city and the Harbour Bridge during the 10 minute ride – then explore the charming and historic seaside suburb of Devonport, populated by cafes, art galleries, parks and beaches.

Coast to Coast - The Coast to Coast Walkway follows a trail between the Waitemata and Manukau harbours across the narrow neck of land that gives Auckland its maritime character. The four hour 16km walk encompasses Albert Park in the central city, the adjacent historic buildings of Auckland University, the city’s oldest park Auckland Domain, and the volcanic cones of Mt Eden and One Tree Hill. Buses run regularly in both directions to return you to your starting point.

Hit the beach!
Auckland is home to some of New Zealand’s most stunning coastline and is certainly the country’s most diverse. Just 10 minutes from downtown you can relax on golden sands as the protected waters of the Hauraki Gulf lap gently at the shore… then 30 minutes later be on a rugged, sweeping beach on the west coast, its volcanic black sand pounded by the surf of the Tasman Sea!

The Hauraki Gulf - The Hauraki Gulf and its islands create a spectacular cruising ground for sailors, an unspoilt eco-tourism haven for holiday makers and a rich source of experiences for pleasure seekers. A thirty-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland will land you on Rangitoto, Motutapu, Waiheke or Motuihe. Journey a little longer and you could be on Kawau or Tiritiri, while a thirty-minute flight will get you to Great Barrier Island. Each island has a different character, ranging from dramatic lava landscapes to sunlit olive groves, uninhabited white sandy beaches to wildlife sanctuaries and marine reserves. The water that separates the bigger islands is home to pods of dolphins, families of blue penguins and the occasional pod of orca.

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