Auckland: General Informations

This waterside city has a strong pulse and a nautical twinkle in its eye. Its bewitching location on a thin stretch of the North Island, which is surrounded by the Pacific on just about every side, is complemented by the lush subtropical forests of the nearby hills and islands. With its spectacular harbour and bridge, New Zealand's largest city ranks with the best and its districts weave their way around a variety of bays ideal for swimming, water sports and particularly yachting - hence the nickname 'City of Sails'.

Main Attractions

• Auckland Harbour Bridge
• City Sky Tour
• Gallery
• National Maritime Museum
• Tamaki Drive
• Auckland Zoo
• Parnell Village

How far from the airport ?

The Auckland Airbus The Airbus runs a scheduled airport transfer service calling at most major hotels and backpackers in Auckland City, every 20 minutes (and every 30 minutes from 6pm-10pm).

How to get around - Local transport

Auckland Explorer Bus-If you don't have a car, one of the best options for getting around is the Auckland Explorer Bus. This sightseeing coach departs from the Ferry Building every 30 minutes from 9am in the summer (winter 10am-4pm). You can hop off at 14 of Auckland's leading attractions, These buses allow passengers to get on and off wherever they like during the day and to catch the next bus through at no extra cost.

Shopping Areas

Just about anything that comes out of New Zealand is available in Auckland. Popular souvenirs include sheepskin products, paua shell items, bone carvings, greenstone, woodcarving and turning, knitwear and leather goods. Also worth considering are wine, books, ceramics and designer clothing. Queen street Auckland's main shopping street is lined with clothing boutiques, souvenir shops, banks, arcades, restaurants and other businesses. If you like exploring, pop down some of the side streets and alleyways like Vulcan Lane. You'll find some interesting stores tucked away, including bookshops and art galleries.

Weather in Auckland

Auckland's maritime climate ensures that temperatures never go to the extremes they would if the city were landlocked. Temperatures usually stay in the mid-20°s (high 70°Fs) in summer, and rarely fall near freezing in winter (June-August) - although the ground in some sheltered low-lying areas may at times receive a coating of frost. In summer the weather can become quite humid.