Lifestyle and Leisure
The attraction of Auckland
Wondering how to amuse and entertain yourself in Auckland? You might want to consider getting yourself a boat, says Lana Clements
Auckland gained its nickname as the 'City of Sails' due to the large ownership of sailing boats and yachts, which dot the city's Waitemata Harbour. With a reputation as a water wonderland, Auckland is a stage for many different watersport competitions, clubs and organisations. The city annually hosts the Cross Harbour Swim from Devonport to Auckland and in the past has hosted the sailing championship of the America's Cup. Subsequently, Auckland residents have weaved the water into their way of life.
Rodney Foley from London moved to Auckland over 20 years ago. He says, "Auckland is built on a small isthmus of land with water on both sides, therefore many activities are centred around the water. If you have a boat, which many people do, then you can go fishing, diving, or just visit the wonderful bays on one of our many islands situated in the stunning gulf. Of course, you can also use a ferry or a charter boat to engage in any of these activities. Kayaking and sailing are other sports engaged in for fun or competition." If you move to Auckland, you will find that it is hard not to fall for the allure of sailing. Glistening water, teamed with panoramic views, friends, and a sense of adventure provide a past-time that is hard to beat. Yachts and sailing boats are popular venues for parties and gatherings or it can just be a great way to escape your everyday surroundings.
The city's watery nature also benefits residents in other ways. Should you have the inclination, there are a few beach spots to surf around the city, or for a more downbeat day people heading down to one of the many swimming beaches including, Mission Bay, Devonport, Takapuna, Long Bay and Maraetai to frolic, paddle and generally take it easy. Rodney adds, "You can barbecue with the family at the many provided beach areas. Scuba diving is another great water-based activity to consider taking up, either for pleasure or to catch fish like lobsters, mussels and scallops." As the urban centre of New Zealand, Auckland offers a great deal to do on dry land. For a unique experience of the city, Rodney suggests that, "You can bungee jump from the Harbour Bridge, or fly around the entire area in a helicopter, sea plane or small 6–12 seater planes." If you are a thrill seeker, you also have the option of Rainbow's End, which is a premier theme park around 15 minutes from the city centre.
Another quirky experience can be found at Lionzone, New Zealand's largest brewery, visitors can spend a day witnessing firsthand the process of beer making, as well as sampling some of the finished products. New Zealand is well known for its fantastic greenery and Auckland is no exception. The city's parks maintain an important feeling of nature and space between the buildings and concrete roads. Rodney insists that "the regional parks will simply take your breath away – there is acres and acres of land at your disposal." Auckland Domain is probably one of the most well known of the parks, with its gorgeous views over the Hauraki Gulf it is a popular spot to relax, picnic, exercise and socialise. In the city centre there are a number of facilities to occupy free days. Try the Auckland Art Gallery, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, the National Maritime Museum, and the Museum of Transport and Technology. Where else? You can fill a day strolling the streets, soaking up the bubbly atmosphere and taking in identifying sights such as the Harbour Bridge and the Sky Tower. If food is your thing, there is much to be said about Auckland's dining facilities. Rodney raves, "The restaurant and café scene is second to none. I believe that we have probably more restaurants/ cafés per head of capita then anywhere else in the world! Food is of a very good quality and presented at a very high standard, foods from all over the world are prepared here – Asian foods, in particular, are superb."
The gastronomic scene is a standard mode of judgement for the world's top cities, but so too is the perceived range and quality of shopping on offer. Without a doubt, Auckland scores highly in this arena: flea markets, shopping malls and trendy boutiques create ample opportunity to spend, spend, spend. The warm climate of Auckland makes the outdoors that little more appealing. Rodney states, "I cannot compare my life in London with Auckland, I could not do any of these things in the UK, mostly because the weather prohibits you from doing much outside. But then the inside activities all seem to cost so much money. In Auckland it's great because you can just go to the beach all day for free and, as you know, all the best things in life are free. People in New Zealand are still in love with the simple things in life."
Rodney finally adds, "A mixture of stunning views, beaches, forests, and shops all help to create a unique place to live, work and play. The abundance of attractions means that there is something to suit any mood – whether you are looking for the scenic, cultural or just some great shopping. There are also many day trip options within a couple of hours drive of the city centre, a must is Rotorua with its spluttering mud pools." Auckland is an international city, but the charm is found as its cosmopolitan stance is juxtaposed with friendly, welcoming people. The water is a great provider of activity and fun but also seems to have drenched the city with a sense of tranquillity and well being that makes the quality of life much higher.
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