Auckland is New Zealand’s sophisticated international gateway. It is the commercial centre of the country with a population of 1.4 million, in a country with only 4 million inhabitants. It is surrounded by 48 extinct volcano’s including the spectular perfectly conical Rangitoto Island in the middle of the harbor.
Auckland is located on a narrow strip of land between two beautiful harbors and is reminiscent of San Francisco with its sophisticated café society. However it unique onto itself with its crazy mix of European, Maori, Pacific Islander and Asian people and consequently it has an outrageously good variety of food and culture often blending these diverse backgrounds.
It’s a friendly city with a strong nationalistic core when rugby and America’s cup sailing are discussed. The Central Business District is located right on the harbor and a number of small villages such as Ponsonby or across the harbor in Devonport on the outskirts where you can stop at one of the funky cafes and get a café latte before getting started on shopping at some of the homegrown fashion houses.
One of the coolest areas of Auckland is the viaduct, created for the America’s Cup regatta held here in 1995 and 2003. This is an eclitic mix of bars, restaurants, apartments and high end accommodation that overlook the tranquil water. This is an area that is humming every night.
There is a lot to do here, including the New Zealander’s never ending quest for adrenaline adventures and include jumping off the Southern Hemisphere’s largest structure (see Larry Recommendations below) and bungee jumping off the harbor bridge!
A short drive southwest of Auckland there are a number of wineries including the beautiful Hotel Du Vin lodge an amazing high end accommodation located in the middle of a vineyard.
There are about 200 wireless hotspots around the city and you can purchase a pre-paid Telecom wireless card or pay online.
AUCKLAND FACTS
Population: 1,241,600 Land Area: 60 sq Km People: 63% European, 11% are Maori, and 13% are from Pacific island decent and there is a growing Asian population of around 12%. Currency: New Zealand Dollar Location: North Island of New Zealand, west of the international date line.
SKY JUMP!
Dominating the Auckland skyline is the Southern Hemispheres tallest freestanding structure. So of course the adrenaline fueled Kiwi’s created a jump from a platform located at 680 feet. This is not for the fainted hearted, but definitely something you remember for the rest of your life. Sky tower Cnr Federal & Victoria Streets, Auckland. discount item here.
White Lady
A favorite of the nightclub crowd this converted caravan has been serving up burgers since the 1950’s. These are real New Zealand burgers with Beet, Pineapple, and Egg as well as the usual hamburger fillings. Get the White Lady burger only if you are really hungry. Hours 7.30pm-3am Mon-Thu 24hrs Fri-Sun, 3 Commerce St, Auckland.
SKY JUMP!
White Lady