Auckland, New Zealand's City of Sails
New Zealand is a dream destination for any traveler, from the crashing waves of northernmost Point Reina to the many penguin species of the South Island. Although small and remote, this island country is home to the friendliest locals around, offers some of the most diverse and spectacular outdoor scenery on Earth and it prides itself in its rich Maori heritage. Rumor has it there are also plenty of sheep.
Travel to New Zealand is long, but widely available from many international airlines. From North America, direct flights to Auckland are available from both SFO and LAX. Flights from Europe usually connect through Asia. Although it is possible to fly directly to the South Island, flying to Auckland is more common and generally much less expensive. Auckland, the City of Sails, is New Zealand's largest city, making it is a great starting point for trips.
There is plenty to do without even leaving the city - take the elevator to the top of the Sky Tower (or the stairs if you are in the mood for a 63-story hike!). Feel like tiny, underwater prey as sharks swim above your head at Kelly Tarltonís Underwater World. Queen Street is bustling with boutiques and cafes. Just a short walk towards the wharf is the prime destination for local nightlife, or for those looking for a more laid-back vibe, many of the hostels have their own backpacker bars, packed till the wee hours with outgoing travelers. Adventures can bungee jump off the Harbour Bridge on their way to the hip pub scene of the North Shore.
For those who love shopping, Newmarket is the fashion capital of New Zealand. Streets are lined with local and international designers, and it is a testament to New Zealand's place in the cosmopolitan world. Even if high-end purchases are not part of the travel budget, it can be worth the visit for the window shopping alone. There are also several vintage shops, used record stores, and an excess of fantastic people watching.
Auckland is clean, safe, and has inexpensive public transportation. The city is also bike-friendly, but keep in mind helmets are legally required at all times. While it is easy to rent a car, you must either learn to drive a manual in advance, or expect to pay more for an automatic transmission. Unfortunately, the streets are not set up on a grid or numbered sequentially. If you get turned around when driving, it can be confusing to reorient yourself. Adding a GPS to your packing list can save time and headaches. Rental agencies are very abundant, but advanced reservations are recommended, especially during the months of December and January. The weather is warmest and schools are on holiday, so the travel industry is packed. Any accommodations should be made well in advance. Auckland holiday accommodation is plentiful, so check the Internet for good deals.
One of the country's most popular locations is just an hour's drive from Auckland, Piha. New Zealand is a surfer's haven, and Piha is a favorite destination. Please be advised that the undertow in New Zealand is very strong. Beaches are beautiful and pristine, but secluded, so it is imperative to adhere to weather and wave advisories.
New Zealand has so much more to offer; it is difficult to fit it all into one trip. Many travelers (including this one!) opt to spend up to one year soaking it all in, even returning for seconds or thirds. New Zealand is no longer the South Pacific's best kept secret, but visits will still be affordable for travelers of any budget. It is a country to fall head over heels for, and once you see it, you will.
Auckland accommodation New Zealand
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Featured Auckland Accommodation
Auckland Bed and Breakfasts
Airport Bed and Breakfast1 Westney Rd, Airport Oaks, Auckland
Receive the warmest of welcomes just 5 minutes drive from Auckland airport. 10 quality rooms, 4 ensuites, large dining room/lounge with Sky TV. Internet access & Wi-Fi. Tariff includes tax, buffet breakfast and courtesy airport transfer. Tea ... [ more ]
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Auckland Accommodation
Auckland Apartments
Waldorf Bankside Auckland Apartments8 Bankside Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland
Bankside Waldorf studio and 1 bedroom furnished self contained apartments include: Full kitchen facilities Internal laundry Modern en-suite bathroom A veranda with Auckland sky-line or water views from most apartments from level 5 Studio ... [ more ]
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St Martins Waldorf Apartment HotelGround Floor, 6-12 St. Martins Lane, Auckland
St. Martins Waldorf Apartments Hotel provides luxurious 4.5 star residential /hotel & serviced apartments accommodation options in a magnificent new high-rise complex. This high quality security complex provides 155 serviced spacious one bedroom a ... [ more ]
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Stadium Waldorf Apartments Hotel40 Beach Road, Auckland
Stadium Waldorf Apartments Hotel complex provides a luxurious 4.5 star hotel & serviced apartments accommodation options in the Quay Park/Auckland Water Front location over ten storeys of luxurious levels. This high quality security complex incorp ... [ more ]
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Waldorf Newhaven Apartments40 Haven Drive, Botany Downs, Auckland
Newhaven Residential Estate at Botany Downs Park, is a unique, well located, quality residential complex which offers a variety of short or extended stay, furnished or unfurnished accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand. The Waldorf Newhaven Apart ... [ more ]
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Auckland Hotels
Ventura Inn and Suites Auckland Airport14 Airpark Drive, Airport Oaks, Auckland
A warm welcome that's worth checking into! Ventura Inn and Suites Auckland Airport offers the closest accommodation to Auckland International Airport. Located at the Airpark Business Centre, we are only minutes from the airport terminals and loc ... [ more ]
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