Joanna James
As New Zealand's largest city, Auckland dubbed the 'City of Sails' provides for quite a delightful time. As part of its appeal, do check out these views that must not be overlooked when here.
For what is termed as the "best view of Auckland," one will be asked to journey to the charming and inviting seaside hamlet of Devonport. Easily reached via a 12-minute ferry trip, the intrepid traveller in you will then be confronted with an adventure beginning at the very summit of High Street. Having reached your destination, you will then have to beeline in the direction of Mount Victoria from where a plethora of dazzling panoramas inclusive of the Auckland skyline will fall into focus. The North Shore, Hauraki Gulf and Rangitoto Island will seem like an excursion well worth embarking on.
Indeed a haven of sights, as well as sounds, will coax you into remaining for hours on end if time permits at none other than Westhaven Marina. Embrace life as it unfolds over Waitemata Harbour and catch a glimpse of the adventure-junkies bungy jumping off Auckland Bridge as part of what many would consider hair-raising in every sense of the phrase. Heading out during dusk? Then a different kind of 'stunning' will have you absorbed in the shimmering lights radiating off the numerous boats docked at the Harbour.
Traversing along the city's west coast will soon bring you to the lovely Waitakere Ranges Regional Park and to Auckland's most famed beach which is Piha Beach. As you head down to the coast, gripping scenes of crashing waves and rugged lands will trickle into view. Above all, be sure to spend as much time as possible savouring the magnificent natural structure of Lion Rock whose reputation continues to expand given that it is one of the most photographed locations in all of Auckland.
Perched on the city's western coastal belt is iconic and popularly called Waitakere Ranges Regional Park which is a gem of the rarest form. This is large because the Park boasts awe-inspiring landscapes that take on varying yet spectacular proportions. For the intrepid explorer, combing over its 40,000 acres where rainforests and waterfalls can be stumbled upon will be a sight for sore eyes and a story worth narrating once back home.
The well preserved archaeological site of Mount Eden found a stone's throw from the city centre is where more pleasing vistas and aspects of Auckland might be learnt of and appreciated. Be thrilled by the highest volcano in the city that features a 50-meter crater and for those daring enough to venture out here, one will also be able to delight in 360-degree views of the city.
Rising 192 meters in the air is one of the area's cherished and talked about attractions; the Auckland Sky Tower! Found near Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences which is among the best hotels in Auckland to be at, the Sky Tower affords several value additions on top of its sprawling views of the city. For instance, you may meander at your own pace around the Sky Tower before taking on the challenge of jumping off, albeit fastened to a cable of course. Seem tempting enough?
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.
