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Activities
Water Sports
Each of Auckland's east and west coast maintains a startling
distinction in their geographical properties. While the east
coast beaches generally have white or golden sand and mild
waves suitable for swimming and boating, the west coast
sand's color ranges from gray to black, the terrain rugged,
and the high waves apt for surfing. Regular ferries service
the islands of the Hauraki Gulf, while charter boats are
available in every incarnation, from classic yachts to speed
launches. Windsurfing is popular in the bays around the
harbor, and so is kayaking, with regular guided expeditions
to the far reaches of the Waitemata. The Hauraki Gulf is
also home to herds of dolphins and whales which can be
viewed on regular boat trips on the Dolphin Explorer. Sea
life can also be seen from underwater, through transparent
tunnels built in an underground aquarium at Kelly Tarlton’s
Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World. In addition, the
Great Barrier Island has hot springs and also provides some
of the most varied scuba diving in New Zealand.
Trekking/bushwalking
The hiking trails in the Waitakere and Hunua Ranges, to the
west and south of the city center respectively, take you
deep into cool, peaceful rainforest. The Woodhill and
Riverhead plantation forests attract mountain bikers and
motocross riders. The Great Barrier Island houses historic
kauri dams as well as a forest sanctuary and myriad of
ecological hiking tracks. History buffs can tramp on one of
Auckland's inspiring heritage trails through historic city
districts or take a leisurely stroll in the business
quarters, observe the yachts and take a glimpse of water
birds along one of the Auckland bays or visit Auckland's
numerous parks and galleries that the city has arranged for
walking and sightseeing pleasures.
Shopping
All of New Zealand’s top fashion designers have stores in
Auckland. Real bargain-hunters can head to the Dress-Smart
mall for factory and outlet stores. Unique Pacific-flavoured
crafts, including tapa cloths and carvings, are also readily
available in specialty stores and souvenir shops near the
waterfront. The commercial heart of Auckland is Queen Street
which runs from Queen Elizabeth II Square near the
waterfront pass Aotea Square and the visitor center to the
bustling Karangahape Road. East of the city stands Parnell
which is a chic area fortified by stylish restaurants and
trendy boutiques. Victoria Park Market which is set in the
cobblestone courtyard once used as the city's rubbish
furnace has been transformed into a pavilion that houses
shops, cafes and restaurants as well as crafts and souvenirs
stalls. Another interesting place for more earthy shoppers
is the Otara Market which is an open-air market where you
can find every kind of products from fresh fruit and
vegetables to Maori music CDs and handmade crafts. |
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Suggested Hotel in
Auckland |
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Spencer On Byron Hotel - Luxurious And First
Class Amenities Coupled With The Impressive
Modern Architecture And Impeccable Personalized
Service, The Spencer On Byron Is Well-suited For
Both Business And Pleasure, For Both Residents
And Visitors. The Spencer On Byron Offers
Culinary Delights In Their Restaurants And Bars.
The Dining Room Restaurant Features Modern
Seasonal New Zealand Cuisine In A Relaxed And
Friendly Atmosphere With Views To Auckland City
And Rangitoto Island. In Addition To The Dining
Room, Guests Enjoy Express Snack Food,
Cappuccino And Cocktails At The Library Bar On
The Lobby Level. The Spencer On Byron Is Minutes
To Other Dining, Shopping And Entertainment
Venues. |
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