Auckland / New Zealand

Auckland is located in the north of the North Island of New Zealand. A multicultural city of two large harbors – Manukau in the Tasman Sea and Waitemata in the Pacific Ocean – with its 1.5 million inhabitants, it is the largest in the country and home to the largest Polynesian population in the world. 

The city was founded on a volcanic field that is still active today. The area was first settled around 1350 by Maori tribes, and in 1840 the British established their colony here. Between 1841 and 1865, Auckland was the capital of the country, and although its role was later taken over by central Wellington, the city remains the financial center of the country, a center of education, and also one of the most expensive places to live in the world.

The center of Auckland is dominated by the iconic, 328-meter-high Sky Tower, the largest free-standing structure in the southern hemisphere. From its observation deck, there are beautiful views of the sea and harbor, lined with nice bars, cafes, and luxury yachts – it's no wonder Auckland is often nicknamed the "City of Sails." One of Auckland's symbols is the iconic, over a kilometer-long Harbor Bridge, built in the mid-20th century. The main Queen Street is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, and art and good coffee enthusiasts should not miss a visit to the suburb of Ponsonby. 

Auckland Domain is the oldest and one of the largest parks in the city and home to extensive winter gardens. Auckland's volcanic past is well visible on Mount Eden: the grassy crater is its highest natural point and offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area.

Knowledge enthusiasts should visit the Maritime Museum with an interesting exhibition on the maritime history of New Zealand from the first Polynesian explorers to the present. The Auckland War Memorial Museum is housed in a beautiful neo-classical building from 1929 and is one of the most important of its kind in the entire country. The Auckland Art Gallery collects 15,000 works by authors, including well-known New Zealand artists and authors from the Pacific Islands.

Not only children will enjoy the Auckland Zoo or the Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium with tropical fish, sharks, turtles, and an Antarctic section with penguins. Fans of active leisure can go on a hiking trek to the Hunua or Waitakere mountain ranges, and those who prefer to just watch sports can do so in style at Eden Park Stadium, where international rugby matches are often held.

The western coast of Auckland boasts several popular surfing beaches, such as Piha, Muriwai, or Bethells. The city also includes several islands, the most famous being the second-largest island in the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke, known for its beautiful beaches, forests, vineyards, and olive groves.

The multicultural city offers a menu from all corners of the world, and there is no shortage of top-notch restaurants here. Whether visitors choose French, Italian, or Asian cuisine, they can never go wrong by pairing it with excellent local wine – a delicious Riesling or a full-bodied Syrah.

Places worth seeing

Sky Tower – Enjoy panoramic views from the 328-meter-high tower, the tallest free-standing structure in the southern hemisphere.

Auckland Art Gallery – Admire thousands of works by well-known New Zealand artists and also view a unique collection of authors from the Pacific Islands.

Eden Park – Explore the volcanic past of the area at the edge of the crater and the highest natural point of Auckland, from where you will have stunning views of the city.

Auckland War Memorial Museum – Learn about New Zealand's war history in one of the most significant museums of its kind.

Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium – Observe tropical fish, turtles, and sharks, and also explore the Antarctic section, home to hardy penguins.

Waiheke Island – Don't miss a visit to the beautiful island, famous for its lovely beaches, olive groves, and fertile vineyards.

Ponsonby – Visit the district known for its nice cafes, art galleries, and top-notch restaurants.