Joanna James
Tipped to be one of New Zealand's most stunning regions, Auckland offers visitors the best of both worlds. Here are some of the most compelling reasons to visit the city on your next holiday.
One of the most unique aspects of Auckland's wildlife heritage is that it is not only limited to the zoos. While the Auckland Zoo is a fantastic wildlife reserve in its own right the sheer abundance of wildlife hubs scattered around the city means travellers can experience the biodiversity of this part of New Zealand in other settings. Rotoroa Island and Tiritiri Matangi are two islands where one will find local and endemic wildlife roaming free while Motuihe Island and Rangitoto Island are equally compelling venues to spot native wildlife species and birds.
Adrenalin junkies will find that Auckland offers more than enough pursuits to keep them exhilarated due to the sheer variety of thrill-seeker activities on offer. From bungee jumping off the Sky Tower or the iconic Harbour Bridge to canyoning and hiking in the city's western coastline, Auckland is the perfect place to let loose and enjoy a spot of sea kayaking, mountain biking and helicopter rides across spectacular terrains. Motorbike tours are also available for daredevils who would rather uncover the city on a set of wheels.
Auckland is a nature lover's dream come true and this is not only due to the many golden beaches, botanical gardens and the dormant volcanoes that occupy the landscapes of the dynamic city but also the many public parks and nature sanctuaries that have come to define Auckland as a trekker's paradise. The Waitakere Ranges and Shakespear Regional Park are a good reason to holiday in Auckland but the Hunu Ranges with its exquisite natural wonders makes a compelling case for the city's reputation as a nature hub.
Home to some of New Zealand's finest restaurants and coffee shops, Auckland's identity as a foodie paradise is another reason to vacation in the city. Highlights include the French Café which has garnered local and global awards while other must-dine venues include The Grove, Sidart, The Sugar Club and Cocoro.
While Auckland has its fair share of mega malls and department stores, the authentic retail experiences in the city are restricted to its thriving local markets which usually take place during the weekend. La Cigale's French Markets alone is well worth a trip to Auckland as the food and the quality of produce available at the venue are incomparable while other engaging local markets include the Matakana's weekend markets and the Britomart Market. The Auckland Night Markets are ideal for food lovers and party-goers in search of satisfactory shopping experience. Those based at Avani Metropolis Auckland Residences or similar venues will find that dining at the markets is one of the best things to do in Auckland City after dark.
Showcasing the largest collection of Maori artworks in the country, the Auckland Art Gallery is a cultural hotspot that warrants a visit to this vibrant part of South Island. Other art hubs of note include Artspace on K'rd and the Gow Langsford Galleries while the city's graffiti scene also attracts visitors.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
