Auckland and Surrounding Areas
Auckland is a vibrant international city, located on or around a
narrow isthmus and flanked by two magnificent harbours - to the
east, the Waitemata and to the west, the Manukau. Many of the
city's icons are by, or even in, the sea: the suburb of Devonport,
for example, with its gracious villas and ferry ride direct to the
CBD; and Rangitoto Island, a volcanic cone with its distinctive and
elegant profile that always tugs the heartstrings of Aucklanders'
away from home. Although this is the largest city in New Zealand,
the great outdoors is never far away. Auckland is generously
catered for with great tracts of reserve lands and the wild,
wind-swept beaches of the West Coast are famously under populated.
From the rural surrounds of West Auckland, from Muriwai and South
Head across to the picturesque east coast beaches, through to areas
such as the Manukau Heads in the south and the Firth of Thames
coastal region in the east, Auckland is a diverse and exciting
locale.
North Shore
The North Shore and Takapuna are perennial favourites with locals for their exquisite beach frontages and some of the most prime real estate in the city. Takapuna is the commercial hub of the North Shore and boasts excellent retail and entertainment facilities, as well as sublime eateries. A forerunner to the magnificent East Coast Bays, which enjoy panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf, the suburb is now hailed as one of Auckland's finest.
Viaduct Harbour
Centrally located and brimming with vitality, the Viaduct Harbour has been called the new heart of Auckland city. It has developed, in response to the excitement of the America's Cup campaigns, into a lively area with some of the city's best restaurants and bars. Its marina facilities have accommodated some of the world's most luxurious super yachts.
Waiheke Island
Past Rangitoto Island in the gulf, Waiheke Island is truly one of the jewels in Auckland's crown. Popular with both permanent residents and weekend holiday travellers alike, being a pleasant 30-minute ferry commute into the city, its beaches and vineyards rate among the country's best. This once-rugged wilderness has been transformed into a boutique island.
Great Barrier Island
Great Barrier Island is the largest island in the Hauraki Gulf partly protected as a conservation estate. The experience of history has taught locals to respect and preserve their natural environment.
