The Islands of New Zealand, in the
south-western Pacific Ocean to the west of Australia, offer
awesome landscapes, lush forests, amazing wildlife and pleasant
climate, making it a haven for many outdoor activities. And
although New Zealand is comparable on size to the UK, there are
only 4 million residents. You can experience a truly a
magical, peaceful experience which lacks for nothing, except,
possibly, people! Many would say that's what makes the
country so special. Once you are away from the main cities,
people become a very scarce commodity. However, this cannot
be said for the sheep, cattle and deer, of which there are
millions!
Located towards the northern tip of
the North Island, Auckland is sandwiched between 2
large bays in two different seas. The Hauraki Gulf in the
north-east coast, is on the Pacific Ocean, and Manukau Harbour on
the south-west coast, is on the Tasman Sea. This forms a
slender landbridge between the larger southern part of the
island, and the narrow north of the island. The city
has a predominently European-descendant population, but also
has Asian, Maori and large Polynesian communities.
The harbour-side city is vast with
a huge amount to offer the short stop or long stay
tourist. From world-class shopping, dining to
suit many different palates and budgets, a buzzing nightlife,
many large parks and green areas, the Auckland Zoo and
numerous museums and cultural exhibits, to the 328 metre high
Sky Tower, offering an observation deck, SkyJump bungee jump,
and in the complex at ground level, 2 hotels, bars, cafes, an
eclectic range of restaurants and a glitzy casino.
A huge attraction in Auckland is
the water front, bay and many different islands of the Hauraki
Gulf, and why the city is nicknamed 'The City of
Sails'. From the harbour-side and surrounding coast, you
swim, snorkel, sail, and take bay cruises, whale and dolphin
safaris, and ferries to some of the islands in the
bay. Some of the islands offer wildlife santuries,
lovely beaches, cove and coastal walks, vinyards, snorkelling,
swimming and horseriding. One of the best and most popular
islands to visit is Great Barrier Island, which is a natural haven
of stunning beaches, amazing coral formations, fantastic scenery,
hot thermal springs and great hiking and walking; just
don't forget your camera!
Travelling around Auckland is easy
and usually hassle free. Driving a hire car here is easy,
with roads similar to the UK, and driving on the left, as we
do. The city is huge and a car would make things a little
easier to get to places, but if you would rather not, there is a
comprehensive and cheap bus service called The Link, trains
services, and mainly through central and southern Auckland, water
taxis and ferry boats
The weather in Auckland is ideal
for most tourists, almost all the year round. The summer
months, January and February, average a daily temperature of
23C/74F and the winter months, July and August, averages a 14C/57F
daily temperature.
Tipping in New Zealand is not
expected or required, but if you feel someone has provided
exceptional service or kindness, tips are usually
accepted with gratitude.
Auckland is an ideal place for a
stopover, but with so much to see, you may want to stay more than a
day or two