Auckland City

Auckland is by far the largest urban area with a population approaching 1,200,000. It is in the process of being combined administratively into one super city. There are many mixtures of races here with Maori, Pacific Islanders, Asians being significant minority groups.

The Viaduct Basin. The wharf area of downtown Auckland is in the  first stages of redevelopment. It is worth a look at the old ferry terminal building beautifully restored, the new apartments, cafes and restaurants along the Viaduct basin itself. The Maritime Museum is also in this area and a monument to Sir Peter Blake, a local  sailor who was successful on the world stage  of yachting and round the world sailing is in the process of construction.
	Devonport on the North Shore. Restaurants and cafes cater for the needs of most and there are  several shops  of a speciality nature including bookshops. It is a twenty minute ferry side from Downtown Auckland and the ferries run usually every twenty minutes. This photo looks from North Head in the foreground, across Devonport and the harbour to the Central Business District  in the distance. Note the volcanic cone of Mt Eden on the left in the distance.
Kelly Tarltons Underwater World. Built in a disused sewer under Tamaki Drive, the complex houses most of the fish seen in New Zealand waters as well as an Antarctic section with penguins etc. There is ample parking above the aquarium.
	Tamaki Drive.  A drive around the eastern bays gives a good glimpse of Auckland and allows excellent views across to the  volcanoes of North Head and Rangitoto. Stop at St Heliers or Kohimarama beach or Mission Bay and walk on the beach.
Inner City Loop Bus.  Take a ride on this bus and get off and on as you please. This will allow you to cover many of the attractions in the Inner City
	Drive up to the top of Mt Eden ( Maungawhau ) and get a 360 degree  view over Auckland. The most spectacular view is across the Waitemata harbour to the basaltic cone of Mt Rangitoto. It is possible to take a cruise out to the island and walk up to the top. This is an extinct volcano with the central plug clearly visible.
If you are interested in bird life, take a trip to Tiritiri Matangi, an island  that is  close to Auckland city.  Contact the i-site on the Auckland foreshore re trips.