Tourist Attractions in Auckland

Over a quarter of the nation's inhabitants live in the Auckland region. Since the Maori alighted from their waka (canoes) to occupy the densely forested land, a steady stream of migrants have followed; Europeans, Asians and Polynesians have all made the journey to create the largest Polynesian enclave in the world. More than 50 volcanoes have erupted in Auckland, permanently scarring its landscape. The last 600 years gave birth to Rangitoto Island. As you venture around the city of sails, touring the many islands from coast to coast, you'll find that Auckland is so unique that it is pleasing to everyone's taste.

Queen Street

The main artery, Queen Street, studded with retail and commercial buildings, flows from Newton to Downtown, with the shadow of the Sky Tower reflected in every gleaming, glass tower. Take a cultural stop over at the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki which features New Zealand and international historic, modern, and contemporary art in a Victorian building. Also in the vicinity is the Auckland Town Hall, Aotea Centre, and the Civic Theater. The main fashion hub is located nearby on High Street which includes World Deluxe Store, Karen Walker and Zambesi.

Viaduct Harbour Marina

Queen Street eventually converges with the waterfront and the revamped Viaduct Harbour Marina. A passion for uprooting the past (Auckland was once dubbed the "City of Cranes") began with Pakeha (European settlers) removing entire volcanic cones in order to revamp the waterfront. Now it is an essential playground for all. Millions have been spent beautifying Viaduct Harbour Marina, a perfect backdrop for the New Zealand National Maritime Museum and Ferry Building as well as a bevy of restaurants and nightspots. There are many restaurants including Sails Restaurant, which is a great place to dine as you take in the views of the marina.

Mount Eden

As you venture south you can fully appreciate the city from the summit of Mount Eden (Maungawhau). Be sure to try one of the trendy village cafés nestled at its base. Another volcanic vantage point offering views of both the Waitemata and Manukau harbors is One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie). Stargazers will enjoy the Auckland Observatory and Star Dome situated in surrounding Cornwall Park.

Ponsonby--The Strip

West of downtown, you'll find Ponsonby--The Strip, a cluster of popular restaurants. Although competition has become fierce with the new waterfront restaurants and bars, many remain loyal to Prego, S.P.Q.R., some of Ponsoby's original restaurants. In addition, festive events take place on the strip, such as the Hero Parade, Auckland's own gay pride Mardi Gras which was voted best annual event by Metro Magazine.

West Auckland

West Auckland offers rugged scenic beauty and, as home to the Dalmatian population, has a unique cultural heritage. To fully appreciate its natural attractions, drive 45 minutes west from the city to the black sand and surf beaches at Piha Beach, Karekare Beach and Muriwai Beach. Also check out the nearby Gannet Colony. For outdoor enthusiasts there are over 140 bushwalks in the Waitakere Ranges, trails for bikes and four wheel drive vehicles, and horse riding opportunities. There are a number of established family wineries here also, notably Delegat's and Corbans, near Henderson and Matua Valley, House of Nobilo and Coopers Creek, near Kumeu. Several of the wineries have excellent restaurants, like the Hunting Lodge at Matua Valley and Allely House at Selaks. Both are worth the drive to enjoy their beautiful settings.

North Shore

Across the Harbour Bridge lies North Shore City and miles of superb beaches. Seaside suburbs with relaxed shopping centers and restaurants wind their way north, with a major highlight being the historic village of Devonport. You can reach Devonport via the Devonport Ferry, available at the Ferry Building. Then take a walk along Takapuna Beach and continue on to Milford Beach along the sea wall at low tide. Beyond the confines of the city lie the 47 islands of the Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park, including Rangitoto Island, Motutapu and Waiheke Island, which attracts many visitors to its idyllic bays and beaches, galleries, vineyards, restaurants, and the annual Montana Waiheke Island of Jazz Festival.

To get a sense of what Auckland is all about, join one of the various tours that provide a taste of Auckland that will have you coming back for more.

Nature Tours

Coast to Coast Tours ( +64 9 411 7080/ http://www.coast2coastnz.com/ ) Auckland Kauri Tours ( +64 800 021 256/ http://www.kauritours.co.nz/ ) Bush and Beach ( +64 9 837 4130/ http://www.bushandbeach.co.nz/ ) StressFree Adventures ( +64 9 235 2099/ http://www.stressfree.co.nz/ )

Wine Tours

Auckland Wine Trail Tours ( +64 9 630 1540/ http://www.winetrailtours.co.nz/ ) Great Taste Tours ( +64 9 424 1741, +64 21 982 895/ http://www.greattastetours.co.nz/ )

Walking Tours

Tamaki Hikoi Guided Walk ( +64 9 367 6009 ) Auckland Walks ( +64 800 300 100/ http://www.aucklandwalks.co.nz/ ) Guided Walks of Auckland ( +64 9 576 1399/ http://www.guidedwalkingtours.co.nz/ )

Harbor Tours

Island Escape Cruises ( +64 9 358 1717/ http://www.islandescape.co.nz/ ) 360 Discovery ( +64 9 307 8005/ http://www.360discovery.co.nz/ ) Pride of Auckland ( +64 800 397 567/ http://www.prideofauckland.com/ )

Car and Bus Tours

Auckland Explorer Bus ( +64 800 439 756/ http://www.explorerbus.co.nz/ ) Claud 9 Tours ( +64 9 837 0011/ http://www.claud9tours.com/ ) Auckland Chauffeured Tours ( +64 9 622 3173 )