Explore the incredible city of Auckland, New Zealand
One of the most beautiful urban environments on this planet, Auckland is ranked as one of the best places to live in the world. Where else does almost every resident of the city live within half an hour of beaches, hiking trails and holiday islands? Besides natural splendor, Auckland also has a sunny climate, a strong sense of Polynesian culture and wonderful wines, foods and shopping facilities. What more could you want?
The Maori name for Auckland is Tamaki-Makau-Rau, which roughly translates into 'the maiden with a hundred lovers'. It earned this name due to the fact that the region was so desirable to various tribes that it brought about a lot of warfare. Today that turbulent history has long been left in the past, but the natural richness that first attracted these tribes still sings out around the city. Besides the impressive city, you'll find three harbors, two mountain ranges, 50 islands and 48 volcanoes - all adding their own unique glamour to Auckland.
Besides enjoying the many riches of this wonderfully cosmopolitan city such as the shops, food, nightlife and entertainment, you might also turn your attention to other equally if not more enjoyable experiences to be found here. Taking a yacht out into the bay or enlisting the services of Auckland's Dolphin Explorer will enable you to meet the enthralling marine mammals that abound here. Bottlenose dolphins, brydes whales and orca can all be spotted at the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Or if you prefer, you can hire a kayak and paddle to Rangitoto Island at your leisure.
Besides being an incredibly beautiful city, Auckland has so much to offer. You can enjoy wines or relax at a spa, go snorkeling with friendly fish or enjoy the cuisine of the Pacific Rim. Take tour of the islands or rock climb, sky dive and abseil in the mountains. Hiking trails, swimming spots, wildlife reserves and golf courses are also abundant. You can even snorkel the Great Barrier Reef. And why not enjoy a quad bike adventure? At Auckland, the possibilities are endless.
