| The region’s warm climate and plentiful sunshine mean you can enjoy the outdoors all year round. You can play golf on one of the region’s 40 courses,gardens and parks are always in bloom, and you can stroll along the stunning beaches - shimmering black sand and surf on the west coast and golden bays on the east. 
The city center in Auckland is alive with cutting-edge fashion, outstanding art galleries, and excellent restaurants and cafés, many specialising in Pacific Rim-style cuisine. In the heart of the city you can’t miss the imposing Sky Tower, at 328 metres it is the tallest tower in the southern hemisphere. Take the lift up to the observation deck for an incredible 360 degree view of greater Auckland. There are stunning panoramas from many natural landmarks too - Maungawhau (Mt Eden) and Maungakiekie (One Tree Hill) on the mainland - while a gentle walk to the top of Rangitoto Island gives a spectacular outlook over the Hauraki Gulf and back to the cityscape. If you’re looking for adventure, take a hike through the native forests of the Waitakere or Hunua Ranges, sail an America’s Cup yacht, bungy off the Auckland Harbour Bridge or swim with dolphins. Make the most of Auckland’s unspoilt waters - spend a day on Waiheke Island with its restaurants and beaches; experience the natural beauty and tranquillity of Great Barrier Island; or take a short ride across the harbor to the charming seaside town of Devonport. It is easy to get to all corners of Auckland - in 30 minutes you can be walking on a black sand beach, an idyllic island or through a rainforest. Auckland’s walkways, volcanoes and immense harbors create a fascinating landscape to explore. Immerse yourself in the strong Maori and Polynesian cultures of the city - take a walk through Auckland City with a guide from the local iwi (tribe), visit the Auckland Museum, or wander through the weekend markets at Otara and Avondale for the true flavors, sounds and sights of the South Pacific.
Source:
http://www.aucklandnz.com/TheAucklandGuide.pdf |