Auckland Overview

Auckland's earliest settlers were indigenous people of the Tainui, Hauraki and Kawerau tribes, descendants of the Hawaiian tribesmen who originally arrived in the area eight centuries ago. They were responsible for introducing species such as dogs and rats as well as foods such as yam, taro, kumara and gourd. more...

Auckland Activities

Visitors seeking an evening of cultural entertainment will find Auckland has a number of venues offering both traditional and contemporary performance art. Auckland Theatre Company (phone: +64 9 309 0390; website: www.atc.co.nz) is perhaps the city's most reputable theatre group offering a year-round programme of productions ranging from musicals to comedies. Theatre venues including the Auckland Performing Arts Centre (phone: +64 9 845 0290; website www.tapac.org.nz/tapac/default.asp); ASB Theatre, Artworks Theatre and the Auckland Town Hall also have exciting programmes. For a night with the Royal New Zealand Ballet, Auckland Philharmonia or New Zealand Symphony and Opera, head for the impressive Aotea Centre (phone: +64 9 309 2677). more...

Auckland Events and Festivals

South American Fiesta: a celebration of Latin American culture is enjoyed by all at the Auckland Zoological Park in late January. Expect live performances from some of the country’s most famous Latin musicians, dancers and performing arts acts. more...

Auckland Sightseeing

The product of a series of eruptions that occurred between six and seven centuries ago, Rangitoto Island is one of the most impressive natural structures of the volcanic field which surrounds the city. Located at Auckland's harbour entrance, the island is in fact a nature reserve which supports a wide variety of species of flora and fauna. Visitors can take a ferry trip to the island and enjoy the easy and pleasant walk required to reach the summit of the volcano. more...

Auckland Transport

Auckland is served by its own international airport, which is situated just 15 miles from the city centre. Auckland International Airport is fairly large, catering to New Zealand's most populous city and providing the country's chief gateway for international visitors. The airport has one international and two domestic terminals, which between them facilitate over 25 international and around half a dozen domestic airlines. more...

Auckland Travel Tips

Arrive on time for dinner appointments at an individual's home and consider bringing your host a small gift such as chocolates, flowers, wine or something from your own country that is perhaps unavailable in New Zealand. more...