Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
sale on the northern edge of the Waitemata Harbour, Hobson decided to create a new
capital, naming it after one of his patrons, George Eden (Earl of Auckland).
Beginning with just a few tents on a beach, the settlement grew quickly, and soon the
port was busy exporting the region's produce, including kauri timber. However, it lost its
capital status to centrally located Wellington after just 25 years.
Since the beginning of the 20th century Auckland has been NZ's fastest-growing city
and its main industrial centre. Political deals may be done in Wellington, but Auckland is
the big smoke in the land of the long white cloud.
In 2010 the municipalities and urban districts that made up the Auckland Region were
merged into one 'super city', and in 2011 the newly minted metropolis was given a buff
and shine to prepare it for hosting the Rugby World Cup. The waterfront was redeve-
loped, the art gallery and zoo were given a makeover, and a swag of new restaurants and
bars popped up - leaving a more vibrant city in the cup's wake.
AUCKLAND IN...
Two Days
from Karangahape Rd (K Rd) to the Wynyard Quarter, stopping along the way to
have at least a quick whiz around the NZ section of the
Auckland Art Gallery
.
Catch a ferry to
Devonport
, head up North Head and cool down at
Cheltenham
Beach
(weather and tide permitting), before ferrying back to the city for dinner.
On day two, head up
One Tree Hill
, wander around
Cornwall Park
and then visit
the
Auckland Museum
and
Domain
. Take a trip along
Tamaki Drive
, stopping at
Bastion
or
Achilles Point
to enjoy the harbour views. Spend the evening dining
and bar hopping in
Ponsonby
.
Four Days
On the third day, get out on the
Hauraki Gulf
. Catch the ferry to
Waiheke Island
and divide your time between the beaches and the wineries.
For your final day, head west. Grab breakfast in
Titirangi
before exploring the
Waitakere Ranges Regional Park
,
Karekare
and
Piha
. Freshen up for a night on
the town on
K Rd
or
Britomart
.
Sights
