World Travel https://www.youtube.com/user/World1Tube Auckland - New Zealand - Oceania Tourism, Attractions, Travel Guide Improbably strung across a series of volcanoes, and punctuated by islands of green, Auckland is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is also extraordinary for the diversity of its population, with one-third of its residents born overseas. This makes it a genuine cultural melting pot and the most vibrant city in New Zealand. For unparalleled beauty, consider Auckland's natural assets. Framed by the summit of Maungawhau (Mt Eden), it is surrounded by the sweeping expanse of Waitematā Harbour to the north-west, with the distinctive cone of Rangitoto Island and the islands of the inner Hauraki Gulf to the north-east. On a clear day, Little Barrier (Hauturu) and Great Barrier (Aotea) islands and the Coromandel Peninsula shimmer in the distance. Thanks to its location on a narrow isthmus, Auckland's districts weave around bays and harbours, so you're never far from the water. In fact, the intricate series of inlets and creeks means that most residents live within 5km (2 miles) of the sea. In total, Auckland and its surroundings are blessed with over 1,600km (994 miles) of unpolluted coastline featuring glorious beaches. If you fancy a dip, head to Mission Bay, Takapuna or Devonport, while there are good surfing spots at Pihi and Muriwai. Considering these facts, it's no surprise then that the city is obsessed with sailing, with more boats per capita in Auckland than any other city in the world, earning it the moniker 'City of Sails'. Aside from its natural assets, Auckland is the country's most culturally diverse city, home to a significant Polynesian, Asian and Maori community, who made up around 44% of the population in 2006. This diversity is reflected in Auckland's eclectic restaurants serving quality Pacific Rim cuisine (fish and seafood here is divine) and its shops. Despite the fact that it's the country's largest city, it's surprisingly small and has a village-like ambience. From its vibrant, regenerated waterfront and ever-expanding Downtown district to its hip suburbs with their Edwardian and Victorian delights, Auckland teems with delights. And its manmade attractions are equally compelling. Check out the iconic Sky Tower, New Zealand's tallest building, where visitors can drink in breathtaking views from a height of 328m (1,076ft). Or visit the superb Auckland Museum, housed in an impressive Greco-Roman style building, dedicated to telling the story of New Zealand, its place in the Pacific and its people. It is particularly renowned for its Maori and Pacific collections. Make a detour to swoop over Auckland's Harbour Bridge. Although lacking the resonance of its Sydney counterpart, it is an important part of the city's history and offers spectacular harbour views for daredevils willing to bungee jump into the harbour. And when you want to escape the urban jungle, head out to the unspoilt Waitakere Ranges, a chain of hills lying 25 km (14 miles) from the city to the west, where you'll discover traditional Maori carvings, black-sand beaches and kauri forests. With such bountiful attractions, it's no wonder that thousands of foreign students every year head to Auckland to make the city their home. Follow their lead and pay a visit -- you won't regret it.

• published: 28 Oct 2013
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