If you like harbours, boats and world class restaurants and sporting events such as the America’s cup or Rugby then you will feel at home in Auckland. Commonly referred to as the “City of Sails” because of its unusually high boat to population ratio! Auckland also has many cultural festivals, stage shows and live performances which celebrates many cultures from around the world which keep its residents busy throughout the year.
Auckland is based on and around the beautiful Manukau Harbour – New Zealand’s second largest harbour. Most locals and tourists love to dine out near the Viaduct. This area is vibrant and full of great bars and restaurants and always has live music somewhere in the vicinity to enjoy.
What makes Auckland so attractive?
If you’re moving to Auckland from the South Island the warm northern climate will be a welcome change from the cooler southern temperatures. Spring and Summer is fantastic for the beach, bush walking and boating activities. The average daily temperature in Auckland during summer is around 23°C.
For those who like the cold, Auckland’s winter will provide you with the relief from the sun that you prefer, although a distinct lack of snow will mean that if you want to go snowboarding or skiing, you will need to travel further south to get your fix! Auckland is one of New Zealand sunniest regions with over 2000 annual sunshine hours meaning plenty of opportunity for you to get outside and enjoy the day after work.
Mercer’s Quality of Living Index recently rated Auckland as one of the world’s most liveable cities, giving it 3rd place out of 450 cities worldwide.
Things to Do in Auckland
Auckland is full of things to do, whether you prefer to stay in the city or venture out to the surrounding towns, landmarks or islands. Beaches and Waterfalls can be found a short 1-hour drive from the City. Visit Muriwai Beach to see the impressive clifftops and gannet colonies or the famous Piha beach where the Piha Rescue reality series is filmed.
Auckland has many islands that are only a short distance by boat and have a wonderful history. One of Auckland’s most iconic island, Rangitoto is a dormant volcanic cone which offers excellent views back to the City.
Waiheke Island is an impressive island retreat which is under 40 minutes via the ferry. It is commonly referred to as the ‘island of wine’ for its many wineries and vineyards and is a great location to spend a few nights enjoying the tranquility of day to day life while only being a short trip from home!
For those adventure seekers, don’t forget Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower, where you can walk on its edge which is over 190 metres above ground level. Auckland also has a wonderful Harbour bridge which you can also climb or Bungy jump into the Waitemata Harbour should you really like an adventure!
Sport is a way of life
Rugby is the dominating sport in New Zealand and It is known around the world as the Rugby World Cup headquarters for obvious reasons! The All Blacks dominance and world cup winning results have put New Zealand on top of the World game. Something to be proud of when you move to Auckland.
Don’t panic if you are not an absolute die-hard Rugby fan, however, as Auckland is also home to many other sports. The Silver Ferns, New Zealand’s premier netball team often play in Auckland along with Auckland’s own team the Northern Mystics. Auckland often hosts our national cricket team the Black Caps for Tests throughout the season. The Black Caps are based at the fortress of Eden Park which is less than 15 kilometres out of the CBD.
Auckland culture
New Zealand’s indigenous Māori people called the land Tāmaki Makaurau, a maiden desired by a hundred lovers. It was a place fought over for its vast riches such as productive volcanic soils and harbours full of seafood.
Today Auckland has a vibrant mix of culture, arts and sophistication that must be explored in more depth should you be moving to Auckland. Whether it is a picnic on the beach, a hāngi (traditional Māori method of cooking food in an earth oven) at your child’s school, or getting out on a boat or ferry with family and friends, the City of Sails has a vast array of attractions, adventures and great lifestyle options available.