Sightseeing in Auckland - what to see. Complete travel guide

Auckland is the most populous city in New Zealand. It has become home to more than 1.3 million people, which is more than 25% of the country’s population. The first settlers appeared on the site of the modern city nearly 800 years ago. They were the Maori tribes. Since ancient times, this region has attracted people by its fertile lands and close distance to water – Auckland has access to the bays of two seas. Until the mid-18th century, the city had been deprived of attention of foreign guests. A significant event happened in 1769 when James Cook visited the region.

In 1820, Samuel Marsden came here to explore the Hauraki Gulf , 13 years later the first sawmill was built in the Uarkuort district. Captain William Hobson was the founder of the first European settlement. In 1840, he established the capital of the new colony and named it in honor of his best friend George Eden. That moment started active industrial development of the city. The population was growing rapidly, mainly due to immigrants arriving in the new city.

In the 20th century, the city began to attract settlers from neighbor states. That is the reason why people of so many cultures live in Auckland. Polynesians make up a significant part of the population, so Auckland has an informal nickname "The unofficial capital of Polynesia". The multinational culture of the city is one of its most attractive features. It is a place where every traveler will feel very comfortable and welcome. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Even nature is unique here. The city will appeal to travelers who enjoy exploring natural sights and stroll in scenic places. It is hard to imagine that there are craters of 48 extinct volcanoes within the borders of the city. Moreover, the water area of Auckland has more than 50 picturesque islands. The water area of the city is also unique. As it was mentioned above, Auckland has access to bays of two seas. The city is situated on a small isthmus, the width of which is no more than 2 km at its narrowest place. To the north of the isthmus, from the Pacific Ocean side, there is the Bay of Waitemata. To the south of it, there is the Manukau Bay, which is connected with the Tasman Sea by a narrow strait.

It is natural that such a beneficial location makes Auckland a popular destination for fans of beach recreation. The choice of suitable coastal areas is simply amazing, and many beaches have become regular locations of colorful festivals. Treacherous weather is among the distinctive features of the city, and the unique geographical location of Auckland is the main reason for that. The weather changes literally every 10 minutes in the city. During one day, the sky can be overcast with dense clouds more than once, looking like the rain is about to start any minute, but a few minutes later the bright sun shines again.

Travelers are interested in the amazing city from the sightseeing point of view. In Auckland, there are many cultural centers and galleries. The city is also famous for its charming parks. For many years, it has been a regular venue for international competitions in various water sports. Local sports arenas host famous tennis tournaments, such as Heineken Open and ASB Classic. This large and vibrant metropolis will charm tourists with its hospitable atmosphere. Active travelers and fans of excursions will definitely like to relax there, as well as tourists who can't imagine a holiday without new discoveries.

Walking tours remain one of the most popular pastimes among guests of Auckland. The city is rich in picturesque parks and beautiful places. Victoria Park is recognized as one of the most gorgeous places in the city. This park is home to many rare plants and rare species of birds. There is an attractive souvenir market not far from the park, so this part of the city is usually quite crowded with tourists. Western Park is a no less beautiful place. Every year, the park has a new and interesting landscape design.

Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World is a research center that has turned into a popular tourist sight. This center is dedicated to Antarctic animals; the research center has an adjacent thematic museum. Visitors to this museum will learn interesting information about wonderful inhabitants of Arctic. There is also a large swimming pool with stingrays in it. Visitors can not only watch but also touch these marine creatures. Fans of unusual entertainment should not forget to visit Auckland TV Tower as the highest observation deck in the whole city is located on one of the top floors. Moreover, there is a popular bungee jumping deck in the tower. It is located at a height of 192 meters.