Auckland, City of Sails, is so-named for boasting more yachts per capita than any other city in the world. One in three households owns a boat in this sparkling harbor town.
This incredibly hip, energetic little city packs a big cultural punch. Roughly 1.3 million white Europeans, Pacific Islanders, Asians and Maori harmoniously merge to create a cultural cornucopia in New Zealand’s most populous city.

The result is a vibrant palette of galleries, theaters, eateries, bars and clubs of a caliber that rivals any major city. Auckland city ranked 3rd in Mercer’s 2011 global Quality of Living index and is the 2nd-safest city in Asia-Pacific.

The central part of Auckland’s urban areas lies on a narrow isthmus, making it one of the few cities in the world with harbors on two separate major bodies of water, the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea. It is little wonder that Auckland frequently hosts esteemed nautical events, such as the America’s Cup challenge.

Straddling the Auckland volcanic field, the city gazes across to Rangitoto Island, the region’s most recent and largest volcano. This iconic backdrop has come to characterize the city, which has ready access to numerous thermal springs and water parks.

The city is country headquarters to major international corporations and banks and boasts some of the country’s largest and best schools and universities. A sound public transport system makes it easy to move around the centee and there are decent bus links to the outer suburbs, with access to priority lanes. This enables commuters to sidestep Auckland’s growing traffic congestion.
Those who prefer to eschew the close quarters of Auckland city for an island lifestyle can always swap the bus ride for a ferry commute to work. Idyllic Waiheke Island is only 45 minutes by ferry to Auckland.

The city’s borders give way to suburbs that back onto the lush, pristine Hunua ranges and extend along a coastline of expansive beaches. While many of its beaches are suitable for young families, others offer fantastic surfing and game fishing.

Auckland recently implemented a 30-year plan to become the world’s most livable city. Sustainability, environment and climate change adaptation are chief priorities underpinning the city’s future social housing schemes and economic growth objectives.