| About Auckland |
| Located at a similar latitude
to San Francisco and Athens, the Auckland region enjoys a temperate climate
with a typical summer (November to March) temperature range of 20 to 30
degrees Celsius, and winter 10 to 17 degrees Celsius. The Auckland region straddles an isthmus which narrows to just 1.8 kilometres at one point. In pre-European days, Maori used to be able to haul their waka (canoes) from one harbour to another. On the west coast is the Manukau Harbour, which opens to the wild Tasman Sea, and on the east the Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf, which open to the vast Pacific Ocean. To the north-west of the city is the Kaipara Harbour, New Zealand’s largest. In the Maori language, Auckland is known as Tamaki Makau Rau, the maiden with 100 lovers. It earned this name because it was a place desired by all and conquered by many. It is believed that the mystical, fair-skinned Turehu people were the first human occupants of the region. While all Maori iwi (tribes) of the region claim descendancy from the Turehu, their tribal identities are generally linked to the ancestral waka that sailed to New Zealand from Hawaiiki - the legendary homeland of Maori in the Pacific Ocean. Of all the waka that visited Auckland, the waka Tainui probably had the most impact. A group from the Tainui chose to stay, in the area now known as Glendowie, and the iwi known as Ngati Tai was formed. Auckland, rich in bird and marine life, was a bountiful home for the Maori people. The soil grew good kumara (sweet potato) and the volcanic cones were natural defensive sites. Evidence of terracing of pa (fort) sites is still visible on the volcanic cones today. Maungakiekie (One Tree Hill) had the most elaborate fortifications of all pa in New Zealand. The great natural wealth of the region periodically attracted the interest of outside iwi and led to frequent tribal feuding, particularly through the 17th century. As a result of intermarriage between the victors and the vanquished, Auckland became a melting pot of tribes. In the mid 18th century, invaders from the Ngati Whatua iwi conquered Auckland. Today the Ngati Whatua people are acknowledged as tangata whenua (the people of the land) of Tamaki Makau Rau. Today the Ngati Whatua marae (tribal meeting house) occupies Bastion Point, overlooking the Waitemata Harbour. Captain Cook’s charting of New Zealand’s coastline in 1769 missed Waitemata Harbour but he left behind several place names such as Great Barrier and Little Barrier Island. In 1820, Samuel Marsden became the first known European to explore the Hauraki Gulf. The region’s first European village was established in 1833 around a spa and saw milling operation on the Mahurangi river, where Warkworth is today, and the missionaries followed soon after. One of the first mission stations was founded at Awhitu, on the Manukau Harbour, in 1834. A pivotal year for Auckland was 1840. The Treaty of Waitangi, commonly seen as New Zealand’s founding document, was signed by local Maori chiefs at Karaka Bay, Mangere and Awhitu. The same year Captain William Hobson, then the Lieutenant Governor of New Zealand, was invited by Ngati Whatua chiefs to establish the new colony’s capital in Auckland. Land was purchased from the Ngati Whatua for six British Pounds. On 16 September 1840 a flag was raised on Point Britomart. A sailing regatta was held to celebrate the occasion, a tradition which is still observed every year on Auckland Anniversary Day. Auckland, named after Hobson’s naval commander Lord Auckland, was capital for 25 years before losing the privilege to Wellington. In 1842, the ships the Jane Gifford and Duchess of Argyle deposited 500 Scottish settlers in their new home. Since then, Auckland’s population has grown steadily and now sits at around 1.3 million, about a third of the national population. New Zealand’s close relationship with its South Pacific neighbours has seen Auckland grow to become the largest Polynesian city in the world. This unique multicultural mix - from a population which is 12 per cent Maori, 11 per cent Pacific Island and 9 per cent Asian - provides richness, character and depth to Auckland’s cultural heritage. |
| Getting Around |
| If it’s transport you
need, there are no limits to the ways in which you can explore the city! The Auckland Explorer Bus is a Hop On Hop Off sightseeing tour with full commentary, visiting Auckland’s big 14 attractions. Buses depart from the ferry building downtown every 30 minutes from 9am (hourly from 10am in winter). Ph: 0800 439 756 www.explorerbus.co.nz The Link is a circular bus route covering central Auckland. Link buses run every 10 minutes 6am - 7pm Monday to Friday and 7am - 6pm Saturday, every 15 minutes every evening to 11.30pm and 7am - 11.30pm Sunday. Buses run both clockwise and anti-clockwise between Queen Street, Parnell, Newmarket, Auckland Hospital, Auckland University, Karangahape Road, Ponsonby, Victoria Park Market and Sky City. Cash fare: $1.20. Ph: (09) 366 6400 www.stagecoach.co.nz Phone the friendly Rideline™ team to ask anything you need to know about getting around the Auckland region on buses, ferries or trains. Alternatively, log on to the Rideline™ website and use the interactive journey planner. Simply type in your location, destination and departure or arrival time to receive detailed information and maps on how to get where you want to go. Ph: (09) 366 6400 www.rideline.co.nz Corporate Cabs is regarded as New Zealand’s premier taxi and limousine service provider. They specialise in airport transfers and tours. A flexible approach to tours ensures you see all the city highlights and that your specific interests are incorporated. Their professional owner-drivers are courteous, helpful and at your service. They meet and greet arriving passengers at all airport terminals and operate 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Email: bookings@corporatecabs.co.nz Ph: 0800 733 833 www.corporatecabs.co.nz |
| Top Auckland scenic highlights |
| Auckland is a marine environment with
idyllic islands that invite you to kick back and relax. It’s also
a geographical wonder, with 48 volcanic cones and two ancient rainforested
mountain ranges. Kawau Island - a fascinating mix of stately living and wilderness The elegant, historic Mansion House of Kawau, with links to Sir George Grey (one of New Zealand's first governors), has been turned into a marvellous museum. During his time on the island, Governor Grey imported many exotic plants and animals - some remain today. The island has walking tracks leading to beaches, Maori pa sites and old copper mines. Kawau Island is only a short ferry ride from Sandspit - about one hour's drive north of Auckland. Parks, walks and hikes in every direction There are 22 conservation parks within easy reach of downtown Auckland. Between them they offer more than 500 kilometres of walking tracks. The Waitakere Ranges (Auckland's largest regional park) provide the perfect backdrop for mountain biking or walking. The Arataki Visitor Centre, at the Titirangi end of Scenic Drive, provides information about the parks, beaches and walking tracks in the area. The west coast surf beaches of Whatipu, Karekare, Piha, Bethells and Muriwai are unforgettable for their soulful beachscapes. Be sure to check out the avian aviators at the Muriwai gannet colony. Put on your mask and snorkel to meet the friendly locals at Goat Island Marine Reserve - follow the signs to Leigh from Warkworth (north of Auckland). Great Barrier Island, the final frontier Guarding the outer Hauraki Gulf, Great Barrier Island has unspoiled beaches and vast tracts of native forest. It's home to several unique plant and bird species. The kind of rugged untouched beauty that you'll see here is getting harder and harder to find on this planet. The native bush is laced with walking tracks, which lead to secluded natural hot springs, mountain tops and historic Kauri dams. Rising 627 metres above the sea, Hirakimata (Mount Hobson) beckons the hiker with a promise of views that will never leave the mind. Most of the island's 285 square kilometres is a conservation estate, administered by the Department of Conservation. This island is also a popular destination for diving, fishing, surfing and camping. Daily scheduled flights are also available. Special places to find in and around Auckland City Take the ferry from downtown Auckland across to the seaside suburb of Devonport and enjoy a light café lunch and a spot of shopping. Alternatively, walk to the summit of Mount Victoria or North Head for 360° views. Ferries to and from Devonport depart every half hour. If you're feeling energetic, do the Coast to Coast Walkway - a unique walk joining the east and west coasts of Auckland. It takes you to many of the city's scenic icons. Enquire at the Visitor Information Centre in the city for a brochure on the walkway. Maungawhau and Maungakiekie The highest volcano on the Auckland isthmus is Maungawhau (Mount Eden). While the lower slopes of the mountain are disguised by housing, Maori pa (fort) features can still be seen on the grassy upper reaches. Food storage pits, terracing and house sites are evidence of Maori settlement dating back to the 13th century. Maungakiekie, also known as One Tree Hill, is one of the largest volcanoes in the Auckland field. It was also one of the largest Maori pa sites in New Zealand - the terracing and kumara pits are plain to see. An archaeological trail leads you around the major points of interest. The mysterious volcanic island of Rangitoto Rangitoto Island, the most unforgettable feature of Auckland's inner gulf, pushed its way through the ocean floor around 600 years ago. The volcanic fireworks that accompanied it inspired local Maori tribes to call it 'Sky of Blood'. Take a train to the top or hike up the 260 metre high summit to witness the spectacular 360° views of the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland cityscape. The island also has lava caves, unique rock formations and pohutukawa forests. Rangitoto can be enjoyed as a guided tour, or visitors can walk to the top independently. The forever-summer lifestyle of Waiheke Island You'll lose ten years the moment you step ashore on Waiheke Island. Considered by many to be the most magical part of the Auckland experience, and easily accessed by ferry, Waiheke's beautiful beaches and native forest reserves harmonise delightfully with the cafes, vineyards and art studios. This island is perfect for a day's shopping and wine tasting, or several days of indulgent relaxation. Waiheke is renowned for its burgeoning wine industry, exclusive accommodation and for the many prominent New Zealand artists who have chosen to make it their home. Almost anything is possible on Waiheke, from horse riding and farm tours to sea kayaking and mountain biking. Tiri Tiri Matangi Island - a conservation success story Around 20 years ago, this 220-hectare island was largely barren farmland. In a unique partnership between the government and conservationists from Auckland, it was designated an open sanctuary, cleared of predators and planted in over three million native trees. Tiri provides an opportunity to visit a genuine open wildlife sanctuary. The island is home to many species of endangered New Zealand bird life, including the kiwi and takahe. Guided tours are available to help you enjoy this very special island, which is administered by the Department of Conservation. |
| Seasonal Tips |
| Summer (Dec-Feb) As a region surrounded by subtropical islands, sparkling waters and lush native rainforest, Auckland is a superb summer destination. The warm climate lets you enjoy more than 100 kilometres of coastline and a stunning array of beaches. Outdoor events are an important part of Auckland's summer lifestyle. The Ellerslie Flower Show happens in November and is the largest garden exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere. Large outdoor concerts take place in the Auckland Domain. The Asian Lantern Festival and Pasifika are other cultural highlights. Autumn (Mar-May) Autumn is generally long, warm and sunny. You can look forward to temperatures in the 20s. It’s the perfect time to explore the charismatic coastal towns - Matakana in the north; Clevedon in the south; Muriwai in the west; Oneroa on Waiheke Island. You’ll discover world-class vineyards and wineries, superb local arts and crafts and scenery ranging from native rainforest to rugged black sand beaches. Winter (Jun-Aug) Auckland's winter is mild – the average daily temperature is 12°C. Calm, sunny days are perfect for exploring in the rainforest, walking the west coast beaches or hiking to the summit of Rangitoto. Indoor entertainments are many - Kelly Tarlton's Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World, Sky Tower and Auckland Museum can be enjoyed whatever the weather. A packed theatre, music and dance programme keeps the central city lively at night. Spring (Sep-Nov) The parks and gardens of Auckland are bursting with life in spring, and there are dozens of beautiful places to enjoy just minutes from the central city. In Cornwall Park, the lambs are frolicking; high in the Waitakere Ranges, new fern fronds are unfolding; and on the beaches of the east coast, the sailing clubs are racing around the buoys. The average day time temperature during spring is around 15°C. |
| Key Tips |
| - Auckland has the largest international
airport in New Zealand. Two domestic terminals allow frequent and accessible
flights throughout the country. - Auckland is on four touring routes – Twin Coast Discovery, Pacific Coast Highway, Thermal Explorer and the Great New Zealand Touring Route. - The Auckland region includes four cities - Auckland, Manukau, North Shore and Waitakere; and three districts - Franklin, Rodney and Papakura. - There are 12 i-SITE Visitor Information Centres around the region. They provide impartial and comprehensive information, as well as reservation services. |
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