Auckland
New Zealand · Country profile
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, a harbour-and-volcano metropolis straddling two coasts with a skyline of glass between the Waitematā harbour, the Hauraki Gulf and the volcanic cones that rise from the suburbs. The iconic Sky Tower crowns the centre, the ferry pier launches sailings to the island reserves and the beaches of the gulf, and the volcanic fields of Mount Eden and One Tree Hill give the city its ancient heart. Auckland is a gateway rather than a small town: the vineyards of Waiheke, the black-sand west coast and the rainforest of the Waitakere Ranges are all under an hour away, and even the Antarctic penguins nest on its coast. It is the perfect hub for the rest of New Zealand.
About Auckland
Auckland is a city in New Zealand. The city's documented population is around 1,478,000 people. For visitors from abroad, the local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD) and English and Māori are spoken; the dialling code is +64. It is served by 1 airport in our guide: Auckland Airport.
A Harbour City Between Two Coasts and Forty Volcanoes
Auckland is a working harbour city set between two waterways, with a character built as much on ferries, islands and volcanoes as on its skyline. The centre is small and walkable, but the real Auckland is the region — the gulf islands, the west coast beaches, the vineyard-studded Waiheke and the forested hillsides all start at the city limits. The pace is easy and outdoorsy, the air is clean and the weather is famously four-seasons-today. It is both a big city and a launch pad, and most travellers use it to reach the Bay of Islands, Rotorua and the rest of the islands. The harbourfront bars, the markets and the friendly locals make the city itself a pleasure.
Ferries to the Islands, Layered Weather and Booking the Gulf
Auckland’s ferry system is the best way to see the islands and the western beaches — check the schedules, which ease on weekends, and book the popular island ferries ahead in summer. The weather changes fast and often, so pack layers and a rain jacket whatever the season, and the summer days from December to March are the golden window. A single AT HOP card covers ferries, trains and buses across the region. The Sky Tower is the classic view, and the gulf cruises, from dolphin swimming to sailing to the volcanic Rangitoto island, sell out in peak weeks. Tipping is modest — round up for good service. The southern hemisphere seasons make it a fine sunny escape in the European winter.
AT HOP Cards, Harbour Views and Breakfast That Runs Late
The ferry to Waiheke Island and the volcanic cone of Rangitoto is the classic day trip — a short sail from the downtown pier, with vineyards and beaches on the one hand and a dramatic volcano walk on the other. The west coast’s black-sand beaches and the rainforest walks of the Waitakere Ranges are an hour away by bus or car. The AT HOP card is the ticket for the entire region and makes the city effortless. The best view of the twin harbours is from the summit of Mount Eden, one of the city’s many extinct volcanoes. Eat early and try the huge, friendly, meat-heavy cafe culture — breakfast here runs until lunch.
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- Country
- New Zealand
- Population
- 1,478,000
- Coordinates
- -37.0082, 174.7850
- Capital
- Wellington
- Region
- Oceania
- Currency
- New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
- Languages
- English, Māori
- Calling code
- +64
- Country code
- NZ
Entry requirements for New Zealand
Visa status for travellers from common origins visiting New Zealand for tourism.
Getting to Auckland
Airports we list for Auckland:
Other airports in the area:
Cities in New Zealand
Other cities we cover in New Zealand:
Frequently asked questions
Is Auckland the capital of New Zealand?
No — the capital of New Zealand is Wellington.
What currency do I need in Auckland?
The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Languages spoken in New Zealand include English and Māori.
What is the dialling code for New Zealand?
The international dialling code for New Zealand is +64.
Which airport should I fly into for Auckland?
Auckland Airport (AKL) is the airport we list for Auckland.
How far is Auckland from the nearest airport?
Auckland is about 480 km from Wellington Airport.
Do I need a visa to visit New Zealand?
It depends on your passport. For the origins we track, the current tourism visa status is Morocco (visa required). Check the entry requirements tool for your own nationality.
Flying out of Auckland? Check the entry requirements for your destination in our entry requirements tool before you fly.