Popular Tourist Attractions in Auckland
Auckland is the most populated city in New Zealand, and one of the most popular tourism spots in the country. There are so many tourist attractions in Auckland that the hardest part is choosing where to begin. Auckland is located near the top of the North Island, and enjoys a nice climate throughout much of the year. It is often mistaken as the capital city of New Zealand, which is actually Wellington at the bottom of the North Island. Some of the most popular activities to do in Auckland include bungy jumping, climbing the Auckland bridge, and visiting the many art galleries and museums of the city. However, there are also a number of activities that take place on the outskirts of the city, including canyoning, whale watching, and visiting beautiful natural locations like the Awhitu Peninsula.
Auckland is the largest Polynesian city in the world, and a great place to experience Maori and Pacific Island culture and tradition. There are a number of art galleries and museums dedicated to Maori culture, and also many shows where tourists can go to experience authentic Maori and Polynesian dancing, cooking, and traditions. The Maori name for Auckland is Tamaki-makau-rau, which is also transliterated as Akarana. Along with the wealth of cultural destinations and activities, Auckland is also surrounded by an amazing natural landscape that include volcanoes, the harbour, and a number of forested areas.
Auckland straddles the Auckland Volcanic Field, an area which has produced about 50 volcanoes during its time. This field of geological activity has given birth to a number of geographic formations, such as cones, lakes, lagoons, islands, and inland depressions. Extensive lava flows throughout the history of this volcanic field have morphed the landscape surrounding Auckland in a number of ways, much of which is incredibly beautiful and interesting to look at. Day trips to these areas are highly accessible to tourists, as are other day trips to locations such as Devenport, Waiheke Island, Tiritiri Matangi, Rangitoto Island, and the Hunau Ranges. Auckland is a beautiful and culturally diverse city, with something to appeal to everyone.