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Auckland

City of Yachts

Auckland
  • General Information

    Other Name: City of Sails, District: Auckland , State: Auckland, New Zealand
    Area: 0 -
    Languages Spoken: English and Maori
    Long Distance Code: 09
    Importance: Auckland is popularly known as the "City of Sails" because the harbour is often dotted with hundreds of yachts and has more per capita than any other city in the world.
    Best Time to Visit: December to February and September
    International Access: Connected to all the major cities of the world by air.
  • Description

    The Auckland metropolitan area or Greater Auckland, in the North Island of New Zealand, is the largest and most populous urban area in the country with over 1.3 million residents, 31 percent of the country''s population.Demographic trends indicate that it will continue to grow faster than the rest of the country. Increasingly cosmopolitan, Auckland also has the largest Polynesian population of any city in the world. It is a conurbation, made up of Auckland City (excluding the Hauraki Gulf islands), North Shore City, and the urban parts of Waitakere and Manukau cities, along with Papakura District and some nearby urban parts of Rodney and Franklin Districts. In Māori its name is Tāmaki-makau-rau, or the transliterated version of Auckland, Ākarana.
  • Location

    Auckland lies on and around an isthmus, less than 2 kilometres wide at its narrowest point, between Mangere Inlet and the Tamaki River. There are two harbours in the Auckland urban area surrounding this isthmus: Waitemata Harbour to the north, which opens east to the Hauraki Gulf, and Manukau Harbour to the south, which opens west to the Tasman Sea.
  • Climate

    Auckland has a warm-temperate climate, with warm, humid summers and mild, damp winters. It is the warmest main centre of New Zealand and is also one of the sunniest, with an average of 2060 sunshine hours per annum.The average daily maximum temperature is 23.7 °C in February, and 14.5 °C in July, the absolute maximum recorded temperature is 30.5 °C, while the absolute minimum is -2.5.High levels of rainfall occur almost year-round with an average of 1240 mm per year spread over 137 ''rain days''.Climatic conditions vary in different parts of the city owing to geography such as hills, land cover and distance from the sea, hence unofficial Auckland temperature records exist, such as a maximum of 32.4 °C in Henderson during February 1998.On 27 July 1939 Auckland received its only recorded snowfall.
Auckland Art GalleryRecognized as the leading New Zealand art gallery, Auckland Art Gallery holds more than 10,000 New Zealand and European works. Expect the Main Gallery to be closed for a NZ$90-million (US$64-million/£32-million) upgrade during 2008. It is expected to re-open late 2009 with 50% more exhibition space. In the meantime, all exhibitions will be staged at the New Gallery, which opened across the street in 1995. It houses a magnificent contemporary collection of new ideas, new works, and new artists. This is where you''ll find the McCahon Room, which displays works by the late Colin McCahon, New Zealand''s most respected modernist artist. The gallery has an ongoing program of family days, tours, lectures, and holiday programs.

Auckland''s imposing museum building stands in the Auckland Domain on the rim of an ancient volcano surrounded by parks and gardens. Major refurbishment of the museum is complete and it now has two entrances -- the original harbor entrance has the stunning views, the new rear dome entrance in The Atrium shows off contemporary New Zealand architecture. Also new is Volcanoes, a gallery that introduces you to Auckland''s turbulent natural history. It''s the only city in the world built on a volcano field and the interactive movie room, simulating the birth of a new volcano, will set you to thinking we''re slightly crazy for living here at all.

The museum has the largest collection of Maori and Polynesian artifacts in the world, and for this reason alone is worth a visit. The extensive Maori Treasures Gallery is a must-see. Key attractions in this area are the impressive 25m (80-ft.) war canoe chiseled from one enormous totara trunk and covered with intricate carvings. That same artistry is reflected in the 26m (85-ft.) meetinghouse, with its carved and painted walls and rafters. Also on display are magnificent greenstone weapons, tools, and feather cloaks. Three times a day -- at 11am, noon, and 1:30pm -- concerts by the Manaia Maori Performance Group bring the culture to life.

The museum is easy to negotiate. Just remember the first floor is about people, the second is about the land, and the third is our war memorial.

Pacific Pathways is a moody area housing a world-renowned collection of Pacific artifacts; New Zealand at War: Scars on the Heart tells an emotional story of New Zealand in conflict, from the Land Wars of the 1840s to its present-day peacekeeping operations. The first-floor Natural History Galleries showcase everything from dinosaur skeletons to live seaside rock pools. It''s a fascinating area well supported by the superb Discovery Centre. My favorite gallery is the thought-provoking Wild Child, which focuses on the experiences that shaped a colonial childhood, although the new Encounter gallery is a close second. It''s the first-ever gallery developed to display New Zealand applied arts and design.

This first-rate museum experience gives a marvelous introduction to New Zealand history and culture. To get the most from it, allow 2 to 3 hours minimum. An on-site cafe is open during museum hours. There is also a second shop and a better cafe in The Atrium. And don''t forget to ask about the free Family Trails tours and the Night at Auckland Museum -- a school holiday treat that the kids will love. Booking ahead is essential or check the website for holiday activity timetables. Also new is a magnificent sculpture walk through the Domain. The museum supplies a map and has the maquettes on display.

Within 5 minutes of city high-rises, you can watch and hear Sumatran tigers snarl, lions roar, and monkeys chatter. Over 1,000 birds and animals from every continent make their home in this outstanding parkland, recognized as one of Australasia''s leading zoos. It is home to New Zealand''s largest collection of native and exotic species. You can meet kiwi, tuatara, and other locals at the Daily Native Fauna Encounter. Or you can visit the beach and see shore birds and little blue penguins. You can also watch sea lions through a spectacular underwater viewing window. At the McDonald''s South American Rainforest, troops of spider monkeys, bonnet macaques, squirrel monkeys, and siamangs swing from branch to branch. Check out Pridelands for giraffes, zebras, lions, and rhinos. And visit the zoo''s two most famous residents, Kashin and Burma, in their state-of-the-art elephant house. Ask about the special Backstage Pass (bookings required), or treat the kids to a Safari Night sleepover and barbecue.

It would be silly to call this a honey of an excursion.You''ll love this beautifully designed attraction, which reveals the inner workings of a beehive. Set in picturesque countryside beside two small lakes, the modern, ecofriendly center showcases production, honey tastings, and bee-related products and gifts. After a visit, you can dine at the award-winning cafe.

Just minutes from Auckland International Airport and built over a large wetland, Butterfly Creek shows off more than 800 free-flying tropical butterflies. The big butterfly house is a delight. Complete with waterfalls, ponds, lush foliage, turtles, fish, and exotic birds, it allows you to get up close to stunningly colorful butterflies. If you''re lucky, you''ll see the world''s largest moth, which has a wingspan of up to 280 millimeters (11 in.).

In your wildest dreams, you might have imagined a live underground penguin colony; at Kelly Tarlton''s Penguin Encounter, it''s an amazing reality. For full insight into this unique self-sustaining population of king and gentoo penguins, make sure you pick up the free brochure, which details the establishment of a full simulated Antarctic environment, complete with saltwater pools, in the heart of subtropical Auckland. You''ll be able to board heated, soundproof Snow Cats and enter the frozen landscape.

Just as awe-inspiring is Underwater World, the dream and final project of the late Kelly Tarlton, a famous New Zealand diver. At Underworld World, visitors travel on a moving walkway through an acrylic tunnel under the ocean. Surrounded by giant stingrays, eels, sharks, and over 1,500 fish, you''re treated to a diver''s view without having to wear the wet suit. Stingray Bay shows off the remarkable creatures at close quarters. This area also includes the adjacent NIWA Interactive Room for kids, a refreshment kiosk, and large educational touch screens. This is a special attraction for all ages; allow 45 minutes to 2 hours. Ring ahead for daily feeding times.

The National Maritime Museum is perfectly placed -- right in the heart of the America''s Cup action. Inside are intricate working displays and fascinating exhibitions documenting 1,000 years of New Zealand maritime history. Watch traditional craftsmen restoring historical vessels, wood turning, and working on sails. Of course there''s an exhibit on America''s Cup history. Plus, you get the chance to hit the high seas yourself: The historic scow Ted Ashby gives 45- to 60-minute rides Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at noon and 2pm. It''s definitely the cheapest cruise you''ll find. The 14 galleries and interactive displays in this acclaimed museum will keep you busy for at least 2 hours.

In the first 18 months after it opened in August 1997, Sky Tower drew over a million visitors, making it New Zealand''s most popular paid attraction. At 328m (1,076 ft.), it is the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, affording unforgettable views over the sprawling mass of Auckland. It has three observation decks, including an outdoor area, a glass lift and glass floor panels, multilingual audio guides, and a revolving restaurant. Access to the observation decks is on three glass-fronted elevators, which can whiz up the building in a speedy 40 seconds.

The Lower Observation level is accessible by stairs and has a coffee shop, along with The Observatory licensed restaurant for a meal with a difference (reservations are suggested). The Main Observation level features the latest technology, with live weather feeds and touch computer screens giving geographical information. The Outdoor Observation area holds high-powered binoculars and is open to the elements. The Sky Deck is the highest public viewing area, with 360-degree views through seamless glass.

If you want to polish up your ski or snowboard skills before heading south, take a trip over the Harbour Bridge and let loose in one of the largest indoor snow resorts in the world and the first snowdrome in Australasia. You can guarantee snow here 365 days of the year, and young and old can have a ball. It features three lifts, a terrain park, and a separate learners'' area.

AMAZING AUCKLAND

AMAZING AUCKLAND
(7 Days / 6 Nights)

On Request
AMAZING AUCKLAND / PR-OZ-101 (7 Days / 6 Nights)
Auckland-Waitamo-Rotorua-Queenstown

Land only costs include  6 nights’ accommodation as described; 6 x daily breakfasts; 1 x lunch, All airport transfers as described by Shuttle (Private transfer option available on request); All sightseeing as described Seat in Coach.  Entrance fees as described: Auckland No Inclusions; Waitomo – Underground guided tour of Waitomo Caves, Rotorua – Te Puia Thermal Reserve, Agrodome Organic farm tour, Queenstown –No Inclusions,  New Zealand Goods & Services tax @ 15% Not included  Domestic airfares; Meals other than specified; Beverages; Mini Bars; Optional activities; Spending of a private nature eg telephone, laundry, films etc; Insurances Travel & Medical; Excess luggage (luggage allowance 1 standard case plus 1 piece of hand luggage per person); Fuel surcharges; Check in/Check out before/after normal Check in/Check out time NEW ZEALAND VISA INFORMATION –VISITOR VISA APPLICATIONS REQUIRE A MINIMUM OF 15 WORKING DAYS TO PROCESS. HOWEVER WE WOULD RECOMMEND THAT CLIENTS ALLOW AT LEAST 20 DAYS CANCELLATIONS/AMENDMENTS 1. Full payment required 14 days prior to arrival in New Zealand 2. Any cancellation received outside 15 days will incur a cancellation fee of AUD196 per person plus any fees imposed charged by our service providers. 3. Subsequent fees are 14-11 days, 30% cancellation fee, 10- 4 days 75% cancellation fee, under 4 days 100% cancellation fee. 4. Upon arrival in New Zealand - 100% cancellation fees apply for passengers not utilising any travel or accommodation. No refunds will be available. 5. Prior to arrival in New Zealand - The first Modification of a reservation will be handled by Innovative Travel free of charge. Any subsequent request modification will incur a modification fee of AUD30 per file, plus any fees imposed by the service provider. 6. Once travel has commenced - Amendments within New Zealand, AUD50 per family, plus any applicable cancellation fees. 7. Late Booking Fee – Bookings received within 14 days of arrival into New Zealand will incur a fee of AUD100 8. Detailed Itinerary – A full itinerary will be prepared 14 days prior to arrival in New Zealand

Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : Auckland
Day 2 : Auckland
Day 3 : Auckland-Waitamo-Rotorua
Day 4 : Rotorua-Queenstown
Day 5 : Queenstown
Day 6 : Queenstown
Day 7 : Queenstown
AMAZING AUCKLAND

AMAZING AUCKLAND
(8 Days / 7 Nights)

On Request
AMAZING AUCKLAND / PR-OZ-102 (8 Days / 7 Nights)
Auckland-Waitomo-Rotorua-Queenstown-Christchurch

Land only costs include  7 nights’ accommodation as described; 7 x daily breakfasts; 1 x lunch, All airport transfers as described by Shuttle (Private transfer option available on request); All sightseeing as described Seat in Coach.  Entrance fees as described: Auckland No Inclusions; Waitomo – Underground guided tour of Waitomo Caves, Rotorua – Te Puia Thermal Reserve, Agrodome Organic farm tour, Queenstown –No Inclusions, Christchurch – No inclusions.  New Zealand Goods & Services tax @ 15% Not included  Domestic airfares; Meals other than specified; Beverages; Mini Bars; Optional activities; Spending of a private nature eg telephone, laundry, films etc; Insurances Travel & Medical; Excess luggage (luggage allowance 1 standard case plus 1 piece of hand luggage per person); Fuel surcharges; Check in/Check out before/after normal Check in/Check out time. Optional extra cost: Day 7 Travel from Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt. Cook Village. Extra cost: Adult AUD97 per person Child AUD31 per child under 13 yrs of age NEW ZEALAND VISA INFORMATION –VISITOR VISA APPLICATIONS REQUIRE A MINIMUM OF 15 WORKING DAYS TO PROCESS. HOWEVER WE WOULD RECOMMEND THAT CLIENTS ALLOW AT LEAST 20 DAYS CANCELLATIONS/AMENDMENTS 1. Full payment required 14 days prior to arrival in New Zealand 2. Any cancellation received outside 15 days will incur a cancellation fee of AUD196 per person plus any fees imposed charged by our service providers. 3. Subsequent fees are 14-11 days, 30% cancellation fee, 10- 4 days 75% cancellation fee, under 4 days 100% cancellation fee. 4. Upon arrival in New Zealand - 100% cancellation fees apply for passengers not utilising any travel or accommodation. No refunds will be available. 5. Prior to arrival in New Zealand - The first Modification of a reservation will be handled by Innovative Travel free of charge. Any subsequent request modification will incur a modification fee of AUD30 per file, plus any fees imposed by the service provider. 6. Once travel has commenced - Amendments within New Zealand, AUD50 per family, plus any applicable cancellation fees. 7. Late Booking Fee – Bookings received within 14 days of arrival into New Zealand will incur a fee of AUD100. 8. Detailed Itinerary – A full itinerary will be prepared 14 days prior to arrival in New Zealand.

Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : Auckland
Day 2 : Auckland
Day 3 : Auckland-Waitomo-Rotorua
Day 4 : Rotorua-Queenstown
Day 5 : Queenstown
Day 6 : Queenstown
Day 7 : Queenstown-Christchurch
Day 8 : Christchurch
A DAY IN AUCKLAND

A DAY IN AUCKLAND
(1 Days / 0 Nights)

On Request
A DAY IN AUCKLAND / PR-OZ-103 (1 Days / 0 Nights)
Auckland

Land only costs include  Sky Tower; Museum Highlights tour  New Zealand Goods & Services tax @ 15% Not included Commissions; Optional activities; Transfers unless specified.

Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : Auckland
AUCKLAND HIGHLIGHTS DAY TOUR

AUCKLAND HIGHLIGHTS DAY TOUR
(1 Days / 0 Nights)

On Request
AUCKLAND HIGHLIGHTS DAY TOUR / PR-OZ-104 (1 Days / 0 Nights)
Auckland

Land only costs include  Sky Tower; Museum Highlights tour  New Zealand Goods & Services tax @ 15% Not included Commissions; Optional activities; Transfers unless specified. Land only prices in AUD, per person and based on a minimum of 2 fare paying pax travelling

Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : Auckland
AUCKLAND HIGHLIGHTS WITH SKY TOWER

AUCKLAND HIGHLIGHTS WITH SKY TOWER
(1 Days / 0 Nights)

On Request
AUCKLAND HIGHLIGHTS WITH SKY TOWER / PR-OZ-105 (1 Days / 0 Nights)
Auckland

Land only costs include  Kelly Tarlton’s; Sky Tower;  New Zealand Goods & Services tax @ 15% Not included Commissions; Optional activities; Transfers unless specified. Land only prices in AUD, per person and based on a minimum of 2 fare paying pax travelling

Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : Auckland
1 DAY AUCKLAND PACKAGE

1 DAY AUCKLAND PACKAGE
(1 Days / 0 Nights)

On Request
1 DAY AUCKLAND PACKAGE / PR-OZ-106 (1 Days / 0 Nights)
Auckland

Land only costs include  Harbour cruise; Sky Tower;  New Zealand Goods & Services tax @ 15% Not included Commissions; Optional activities; Transfers unless specified. Land only prices in AUD, per person and based on a minimum of 2 fare paying PAX travelling

Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand Tours