OUR DESTINATIONS
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- Destinations
- Australasia
- New Zealand
- Auckland
Auckland
Auckland is situated on a narrow strip of land, flanked by two
magnificent harbours to the east and west. The shallow Manukau
Harbour opens out to the Tasman Sea to the west, while the
Waitemata Harbour lies at the heart of the city centre and is
Auckland's deepwater port. It has a vibrant waterfront that has
flourished with the successful hosting of the 2002/2003 America's
Cup, the international yachting event of the year, and the trendy
restaurants and waterside cafes are a constant hive of
activity.
Known as the 'City of Sails', with a larger boat-to-person ratio
than anywhere else on earth, it is a paradise for sailing
enthusiasts and every weekend the waters of the Hauraki Gulf come
alive with a flotilla of colourful sails. The best way to
experience the city is from the water, sailing around the
attractive harbour or on a ferry cruise to one of the many stunning
islands dotted about the Gulf.
Auckland is the largest and most cosmopolitan city in New
Zealand, and acts as a major gateway to the rest of the country.
Yet it is also one of the least densely populated in the world,
covering an area twice the size of London but with barely a million
inhabitants. It has a friendly small-town atmosphere and a relaxed
pace of life.
Beyond the bustling downtown area, dominated by the southern
hemisphere's tallest building, the Sky Tower, the city sprawls
outwards, with low-slung buildings and wooden houses among leafy
parks and walking tracks. The suburbs wind their way around
picturesque bays and harbours and between volcanic hills that
provide panoramic views over the city and mountains, encompassing
numerous green urban parklands that are dotted with sheep.
Information & Facts
Climate
The climate of Auckland is generally warm and wet, bordering on
sub-tropical. Summers are warm to hot with high humidity, winters
mild and damp. The city experiences plenty of rain throughout the
year, but predominantly in winter. The weather can be suddenly
changeable with tropical cyclones and cold fronts causing
occasional extreme conditions like hailstorms.
Getting Around
Buses serve most places in the city centre and there are some
free bus services in the inner city, linking to major tourist
attractions. The city train service is aimed primarily at
commuters. Ferries connect to the north shore suburbs and take
passengers to the Hauraki Gulf Islands. Taxis can be hailed on the
street, but are more commonly booked by phone. There isn't much
advantage to having a car in the city even considering that driving
is easier than in other major cities, but to explore suburbs
further away it is best to rent a car. Drivers must have a valid
driver's license and be at least 21 years of age, although most
agencies will add surcharges to under-25s. Cycling or hiring a
scooter are also good ways to explore the city. For schedules,
routes and fares on ferries, buses and trains, visit
www.maxx.co.nz.
Language
The official languages in New Zealand are English and
Maori.
Money
Local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), divided into 100
cents. Most businesses accept MasterCard and Visa, and while Diners
Club and American Express are also widely accepted in the main
tourist centres, they might have limited acceptance elsewhere.
Travellers cheques and foreign currency can be exchanged at banks,
bureaux de change and some hotels. ATMs can be found in all towns
and cities.
Night Life
Auckland's 'city of sails' reputation and natural beauty make it
an ideal destination for tourists wishing to take part in
sightseeing and various other activities. Surpassing its daytime
reputation Auckland comes alive at night. With clubs, bars,
cinemas, dance clubs and pubs, Auckland is arguably the kiwi
nightlife capital. The Tourist Times is a great source of hip and
happening entertainment listings and is distributed free of charge
throughout the city.
The city has a great selection of clubs and bars catering for up
and coming businessmen, highflyers and young students. The main
nightlife areas include High Street, Ponsonby, Viaduct Harbour,
Parnell and Karangahape Street. Urge on Karangahope Street attracts
a trendy crowd, while Flirt on the corner of Pitt Street is a great
place to relax and watch the crowd. The Paddington on St George's
Bay Road is filled with big screen TVs and gets packed later on in
the evening. The hedonistic business crowd tend to migrate to
Iguacu in the Parnell area. For those wishing to dance the night
away head to Lime on Ponsonby, Club 4:20 on Karangahape, Coco Club
on Fort Lane and Suede on Symonds Street. If you're into the live
music scene then the best bars to try is Galatos on Galatos Street.
Some quirky nightspots in Auckland are Minus 5, an ice bar with the
temperature set at a constant five degrees below zero; Honey, which
has more than 30 choices of champagne on offer; and Chic at Viaduct
Harbour which is kitted out with a selection of beds and pillows
instead of tables. The Northern Steamship Company is a must with a
selection of their own beers and a bizarre selection of table lamps
glued to the ceiling.