Top ten things do do in Auckland
Experience Auckland's unique nautical atmosphere
Auckland is reputed to have the largest boat ownership per capita in the world and is the ideal destination for getting intimate with the ocean.
Join the crew on a genuine America's Cup racing yacht, take a harbour cruise across to the seaside pubs of Devonport or go swimming with dolphins on the Hauraki Gulf. In addition to sailing, activities available include kayaking, windsurfing and fishing.
Indulge yourself in shopping
The heart of the city, High Street and The Chancery, and neighbouring districts Ponsonby, Parnell and Newmarket are home to some of New Zealand's best design labels. Victoria Park Market, located near the central city, offers arts, crafts and a range of New Zealand souvenirs.
Savour fine food
With more than 1000 restaurants, Auckland dishes up a huge array of dining experiences, from small ethnic eateries to five-star cuisine. For a delicious dining experience with a view to match, try the waterfront restaurants at Viaduct Harbour, Westhaven Marina or Princes Wharf.
Sip award-winning wines
You will find world-class vineyards and wineries on Waiheke Island, in Matakana to the north, Henderson Valley and Kumeu to the west or Clevedon Valley to the south. Fine Wine Tours offers a range of personalised wine tasting experiences at some of Auckland's best wineries.
Dare to be adventurous
Auckland is home to the Sky Tower, the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere (and taller than the Eiffel Tower). Jump off or climb up the Sky Tower, climb over or bungy jump from the Auckland Harbour Bridge, canyon deep into a cave or quad bike through the bush.
Stretch your legs
Auckland has hundreds of miles of picturesque walking and cycling tracks of every grade. A more leisurely stroll can be had on one of 40 golf courses, including the PGA-rated Formosa and Gulf Harbour.
Escape to an island
With 50 islands scattered through the Hauraki Gulf, it's easy to escape.
Waiheke Island's landscape is a picturesque blend of farmland, forest, beaches, vineyards and olive groves. Iconic Rangitoto offers spectacular views of the city and harbour, while Great Barrier Island is one of New Zealand's premier eco-retreats.
Great Barrier Island is just a 30-minute flight from Auckland Airport and ferries run regularly to Waiheke, Great Barrier, Rangitoto, Tiritiri Matangi and Kawau Islands.
Discover the local culture and heritage
Auckland boasts renowned museums, galleries and historical sites. The Auckland War Memorial Museum has the world's largest collection of Polynesian artefacts, and Polynesian influences are evident at the colourful markets held in Otara and Avondale each weekend. Experience an authentic and interactive walking tour on the Tamaki Hikoi.
Hit the beach
Auckland boasts dozens of beautiful beaches just minutes away from the CBD. Choose between the golden sands and sheltered bays of the east coast, or the volcanic black sands and pounding surf out west.
An abundance of Events
Auckland Cup Week, Auckland Festival (AK09) and the Auckland International Boat Show are just a few of the magnificent events to which Auckland plays host each March - check out the great programme of events lined-up for Auckland Cup Week.
For more information on things to see and do in Auckland, visit www.aucklandnz.com or call the team at Tourism Auckland on 0800 AUCKLAND (282 552)
