The city of Auckland originally established on the edge of the Waitemata harbour is known as the city of sails. Auckland has the distinction of being the largest city in both New Zealand and the Pacific Ocean, and has the largest concentration of Pacific Island peoples in the World with a cultural diversity and flavour that reflects this.

Waitemata means the water as smooth as the surface of obsidian. This meaning provokes an apt Maori saying with reference to your travel associated with this Congress:

I to haerenga, Me whakapapa pounamu te moana

In those travels, may the waters before you glisten as the shimmering greenstone

Auckland Tourism (www.aucklandnz.com) describes the city as following:

“Auckland’s waterside location has fostered the locals’ love affair with the sea, earning this place the nickname “City of Sails”. Auckland sprawls over a narrow isthmus between the sparkling waters of the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours. A cloak of rainforest covers the surrounding hills and dozens of dormant volcanic cones dot the landscape. Auckland’s heart beats to a Polynesian rhythm, its people a melting pot of South Pacific and Asian cultures and a strong indigenous Maori heritage. This diversity brings with it an abundance of unique dining and shopping experiences.

Auckland’s temperate climate, easy access to the coast and variety of activities earn the city consistent top five rankings in international lifestyle surveys. Discover for yourself why it is one of New Zealand’s best destinations. Auckland has the distinction of being the largest city in both New Zealand and the Pacific region, and has the largest concentration of Pacific Island peoples in the World with a cultural diversity and flavour that reflects this. Auckland has been captivating to passing travellers for 800 years. New Zealand’s indigenous people, the Maori, called this land “Tamaki Makau Rau”, a maiden with 100 lovers. It was a place desired by many and fought over for its riches, including its forested hills, productive volcanic soils and harbours full of seafood.

The first sailors to settle here were the Maori, and in later years migrants from the Pacific Islands have contributed to the Polynesian population. You can take a walk through the city with a guide from the local iwi (tribe), visit the Auckland Museum, or wander through the weekend markets at Otara and Avondale for the flavours, sounds and sights of the South Pacific. In the city centre, Auckland’s recent popularity as an international education destination has seen an explosion of ethnic shops, especially Asian-style eateries."

Activities and Adrenaline Rush

Sky Walk - Dare yourself to walk the circumference of the Sky Tower with no rails or balcony, just a safety harness on a ledge 1.2 metres wide. www.skycityauckland.co.nz

Sky Jump - Throw yourself off the top of the Sky Tower and plunge 192 metres in a controlled fall while wearing a safety harness. www.skycityauckland.co.nz

Snowplanet - Snowplanet is the only indoor snow resort in the Southern hemisphere where tourists can experience the thrill of snowsports and atmosphere of a snow village 20 minutes north of Auckland and open 365 days-a-year. www.snowplanet.co.nz

Attractions & Cultural Experience

Auckland Museum - Auckland Museum is the cultural and spiritual touchstone for the many races that inhabit this beautiful land, and the first stop for anyone wishing to gain an insight into New Zealand and its peoples. www.aucklandmuseum.com

Manaia - Experience Maori culture at the Auckland Museum with a welcome dance, poi dance, stick game, weaponry display and a haka. www.aucklandmuseum.com

Auckland Explorer Bus - The Auckland Explorer Bus is a hop on, hop off sightseeing tour with full commentary visiting Auckland's big 14 attractions. www.explorerbus.co.nz