The
largest city in New Zealand and one of the country’s most popular destinations
among holidaymakers from abroad, Auckland offers many amazing sights and places
of interest to visit on a short break. Located on the North Island with a
population of just over 1.5 million people, it’s a laid-back city with a
distinctly different feel to it than other cities in the country, like
Queenstown which is renowned the world over as New Zealand’s adventure capital.
If
you’re going to take a short break to this bustling New Zealand city, arrange a car rental in Auckland,
either from the airport or in the city, before you explore the surrounding
area. While the public transportation system is good here, hiring a car gives
you the freedom to explore its sights.
See the Sights of the City
There
are a number of places of interest that you don’t want to leave Auckland
without witnessing first-hand for yourself. These include the following:
- Auckland Sky Tower – The most prominent landmark in the city, Auckland Sky Tower boasts a 192-meter-high Sky Walk platform situated around the tower's pergola. On a clear day, you’ll get a view stretching as far as 80 kilometres.
- Waitemata Harbour – One of the most beautiful harbours found anywhere in the world, Waitemata Harbour is incredibly picturesque, with the late afternoon and early evening the most spectacular times to witness its immense beauty.
- One Tree Hill – For many Aucklanders, it’s One Tree Hill that best symbolises their fair city. This 182-meter-high hill is located in the wonderfully lush Cornwall Park which is a must-see. You’ll get fantastic views of the city from its summit.
Auckland
offers holidaymakers many wonderful places of interest to explore during their
time here. In addition to the three discussed above, there’s also the strikingly
imposing War Memorial Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery and Viaduct Harbour,
which is a great place for a leisurely lunch and a few afternoon drinks.
Waiheke Island
In
summer, few places are as popular as gorgeous Waiheke Island, a tropical
paradise located a short distance from Auckland. There are many trails to hike
around the island, including the Church Bay Circuit with its spectacular views,
a bustling little art scene and plenty of restaurants. You can catch a ferry
here from Auckland (Princes Wharf) and the pleasant journey takes about 45
minutes.
East Coast Beaches
The
beaches a short drive from Auckland are excellent, so
once you’ve arranged a car rental in Auckland and have got your bearings,
you may like to check out:
Takapuna
Beach – With its sandy shores and proximity to the city, it’s understandably very
popular.
Milford
Beach and Cheltenham Beach – A little further out, though still very beautiful,
these beaches are usually less crowded.
Maraetai
Beach – With its calm waters, it’s an outstanding swimming spot for the kids.
Auckland
has plenty to offer holidaymakers of all ages and all interests. Be sure to
check out these top spots on your next exciting holiday to Auckland on New
Zealand’s North Island.
