Joanna James
Known as the City of Sails, Auckland’s coastline features an impressive array of beaches and breathtaking harbours that frame the city’s metropolis setting. However, as a buzzing tourist hub in New Zealand, Auckland has plenty more experiences to bring to light several of the city’s other gems - its stunning natural beauty, intriguing Maori culture and thriving wine industry. For those planning their first visit to this vibrant city, here are some of the top experiences that will give you a taste of Auckland’s unique charm.
Located not too far from the mainland, Waiheke Island is the country’s most populated island, best known for having a multitude of vineyards and several of the country’s best wineries. You can spend a full day on the island, starting with a casual stroll at any of its 9 beaches, and then an extensive wine tour during which you can taste several exquisite wines before lunch. You can also treat yourself to some entertainment afterwards, by visiting the island’s cinema or the art theatre which hosts several performances and art galleries.
If you’re looking to enjoy more cultural experiences in the heart of the city, you can pay a visit to the Aukland Art Gallery. It is a short walk from several of the city’s accommodations like Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences making it an ideal spot to visit if you aren’t keen on venturing too far out yet. The gallery was the first of its kind in New Zealand and features a vast collection of both local and international exhibits. These include traditional Maori paintings, European landscapes from the 19th century and contemporary New Zealand art.
If you’re looking to capture some great photographs during your Auckland sightseeing tour, there’s no better place to be than the Sky Tower. Standing at 328 metres, this telecommunications office building is the southern hemisphere’s tallest man-made structure and offers spectacular views of Auckland and the perfect photographing opportunity. If you’re the daring kind, you can also walk the narrow Sky Walk platform that encircles the building, or you can simply jump off at the Sky Jump for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
One of the best ways to truly enjoy Auckland’s enthralling natural beauty is by exploring the Waitakere Ranges, the forest-covered hilly region of the city. Covering over 160,000 hectares, this regional park is a thriving ecosystem that supports a range of fauna and flora, as well as the popular black sand surf beaches that are favourites for tourists. The region is also revered as sacred by the local Maori community who make great efforts to protect and preserve these forests for generations to come. You can wander along several of the walking and hiking trails available as well as visit several of the stunning waterfalls as you look to bond and reconnect with nature.
As a thriving tourist hub, Auckland treats its visitors to a top-tier shopping experience at Sylvia Park, the largest shopping mall in the country. Featuring over 200 shops, you’ll find all manner of shops and stores that cater to all ages with both local and international brands. You can also treat yourself after your shopping spree at the mall’s expansive food court or enjoy a good movie at the in-house Cineplex.
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.
