Auckland is New Zealand's most cosmopolitan city.

Auckland is New Zealand’s economic capital; it is also New Zealand’s largest and most populated urban area, with a little over a third of the entire population residing within its boundaries. Internal migration from other parts of the country to Auckland, plus strong international immigration make the local housing market highly competitive as the population steadily increases. It’s no surprise the city attracts people from within New Zealand and all over the world - it has plenty to boast about – including its status as one of the world’s most liveable cities.

Wynyard Quarter offers great dining, markets, a playground for the kids, outdoor cinema in the summer and the fish markets.

The CBD of Auckland is built right on the shoreline and the waterfront continues to play a significant role. Viaduct Harbour was created along the waterfront, a village of luxury apartments, restaurants, marinas and event venues, all against the backdrop of the historic Waitemata harbour. The area has most famously been home to America’s Cup defences, and remains a key feature of the centre of the city. The city itself is a mix of entertainment quarters, retail – including luxury brands, and is dominated by large business and office blocks. Though considered a big city, and with the urban sprawl to prove it, the CBD at its heart is compact – small in scale and large on attitude.

Located in the heart of the CBD, the Viaduct Harbour offers excellent eateries set amongst the backdrop of sleek super yachts and the water.

To the north, south, east and west you will find a full range of landscapes and suburbs, from old and established to new and growing, there is something to satisfy every home buyers taste and requirements. The city’s larger suburbs all have their own village centres, which offer a distinct flavour of amenities. Aucklanders love coffee arguably more than their Wellingtonian cousins, and it’s in these centres that you will find some of the best available – alongside boutique home-grown brands and local craftsman retail. The city, though very spread out is easily navigated by public transport – bus, train or ferry, and its motorway system, which can get you anywhere in a relatively short space of time. Enjoy the white sand beaches of the eastern coast, or head west and marvel at the cinematic scenery. Mix city with country in the south or go north across the Harbour Bridge to where lifestyle is the gateway to the winterless northern regions of New Zealand.

Te Arai Point

The Hauraki Gulf is a marine park covering over 1.2 million hectares between Auckland and the Coromandel Peninsula. It consists of over 50 islands, 5 marine reserves and abundant wildlife. Many islands are managed by the Department of Conservation, some being sanctuaries for rare plants and animals, especially our beloved native birds.

Navigate the volcanic rock of Rangitoto Island, or head to nearby Waiheke to luxuriate in a longer stay and locally grown wine. As Hauraki’s largest, but most remote island, Great Barrier requires more planning to get to. However the endless dive, swim, surf, fish, tramp locations amongst the untouched, pristine landscape promise visitors a once in a lifetime adventure.

Architecture

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki

History

Maori settled in the Auckland area in the 14 th century and named it Tāmaki Makaurau, meaning “isthmus of one thousand lovers” or “the bride sought by a hundred suitors”.

Alongside the name’s romantic sentiment, it also signals the intense desirability of the land. Auckland’s 53 volcanoes provided richly productive soil, and pā (fortified villages) were strategically created around their peaks. A few pā are still evident now with their terraced formation carved into the hills, and you’ll notice them if out exploring or walking the dog on one of the many ‘Maunga’ or mountains. Tāmaki Makaurau was prized for its bountiful waters, providing a valuable source of life for burgeoning communities, and Aucklanders still love to get out and about on the water or enjoy one of the 80+ beaches at our fingertips – water is a way of life here.

Looking south towards Queen Street along Queen Street Wharf, 1904. Sir George Grey Special Collections, Auckland Libraries.

Auckland has a variety of notable architectural works built since the mid-19th century. They span many styles including; Neo Classical – the iconic War Memorial Museum which dominates the views looking toward the city from the harbour, Gothic Revival – cathedrals and ecclesiastic buildings, as well as many prestige schools, Italian Renaissance – our Town Hall and concert chamber, and even Art Deco with an added touch of whimsy in our spectacular Civic Theatre. Many Auckland homes are of the colonial Villa style, or the Bungalow style which dominated the early 20 th century – the same time as the city’s major growth period and building boom. The Skytower is Auckland’s most iconic building and opened in 1997. It is the tallest man-made structure in the Southern Hemisphere and soars above the skyline, lit every night to a different theme – if you ever find yourself lost – simply look for the tower to get your bearings!

Looking North over Auckland city, 1840's. Sir George Grey Special Collections, Auckland Libraries.

The first Governor William Hobson declared Auckland as New Zealand’s capital in 1840 and commerce flourished, as well as agriculture – bringing wealth to its inhabitants to rival the largely land owner settlements of the deep south. Auckland still enjoys being the centre for business today, even though it ceased to be the centre of government in 1865, when Wellington gained the title.

So while a lot has changed in the many centuries since its first inhabitants arrived, the sentiment remains - Auckland really is still the most desirable place to call home in New Zealand.