Auckland is by far the largest city in New Zealand, with about 1.7 million people – one-third of the country’s total population. It was the capital from 1841 until 1865, when the title was transferred to the much smaller but more centrally located Wellington.
From Paihia back to Auckland
The drive back took longer because I decided to drop off my car at the airport and spend my last two days in the city without it. I figured I’d save money on parking and wouldn’t need a car to get around the city center. There was heavy traffic while heading to the airport. After dropping off the car, I used a combination of buses and trains to reach the city, and the overall journey took up most of the day.
Auckland
Despite having a population of 1.7 million, Auckland feels relatively small. This might be a personal impression after visiting larger cities like Beijing and Tokyo in the past few months. The city center can easily be navigated on foot, and two days feels like more than enough time to see everything and visit a few indoor attractions.
Here are a few things to do in Auckland:
- Sky Tower – Visit Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. You can also try the SkyJump or SkyWalk for an adrenaline rush.
- Auckland War Memorial Museum – Explore this museum to learn about New Zealand’s history, culture, and natural heritage. It features extensive exhibits on Māori culture and the country’s military history.
- Waiheke Island – Take a short ferry ride to this beautiful island known for its stunning vineyards, olive groves, and beaches. Enjoy wine tasting and scenic views while exploring the island.
- Viaduct Harbour – Stroll along the waterfront area filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and beautiful views of the harbor.
- Auckland Art Gallery – A free art gallery with a mix of international and Māori contemporary art.
Auckland Pictures :
