Auckland – by Volcanic Hills
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest urban area with a population of just over a million people. It is not, however, the capital, although it was at one time, until the capital moved to Wellington. The city’s landscape is dominated by volcanic hills, the twin harbors, bays, beaches and islands. Its nickname ‘the city of sails’ is very apt. Auckland has more boats per capita than anywhere else in the world.
Photo: travelblog.org
Auckland is dotted with volcanic hills, many of which were once the site of Maori pas, or fortified villages, and which currently afford great views of the city. Auckland lies between the Waitemata and Manukau harbors, and its geography is such that glistening waters seem to beckon from every point. It is a water lover’s paradise, with some of the best beaches, swimming, diving, fishing, sailing, windsurfing and water sports in the country.
Auckland sprawls over a narrow isthmus between the sparkling waters of the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours. A cloak of rainforest covers the surrounding hills, dozens of dormant volcanic cones dot the landscape and enchanting holiday islands are scattered throughout the vast Hauraki Gulf. Two of the best island getaways are Waiheke Island and Great Barrier Island
Auckland’s heart beats to a Polynesian rhythm, its people a melting pot of European, South Pacific and Asian cultures and a strong indigenous Maori heritage. This diversity brings with it an abundance of unique dining and shopping experiences.
Photo: Qing
Auckland’s temperate climate, easy access to the coast and variety of activities earn the city consistent top five rankings in international lifestyle surveys. Discover for yourself why it is one of New Zealand’s best destinations.
Auckland lies between the Hauraki Gulf of the Pacific Ocean to the east, the low Hunua Ranges to the south-east, the Manukau Harbour to the south-west and the Waitakere Ranges and smaller ranges to the west and north-west. The central part of the urban area occupies a narrow isthmus between the Manukau Harbour on the Tasman Sea and the Waitemata Harbour on the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the few cities in the world to have harbours on two separate major bodies of water.
Find Cheap Hotels in Auckland.
Source: aucklandnz.com, wikipedia.org, auckland.nz.com
