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The name Auckland refers
both to a region and a city.
The Auckland region stretches from Wellsford in the north to the Bombay Hills
to the south, and from the wild expansive west coast beaches on the Tasman
Sea, to the white sand coastline of the mighty Pacific Ocean to the east.
Auckland city is centred within this region and is actually one of the biggest cities in the world in area, over twice the size of London. The population is a lot less, so it is not common to experience crowds or cramped conditions. Auckland contains just under one third of the total population of New Zealand and is also the largest Polynesian city in the world, as it attracts many Maori, as well as islanders from the South Pacific.
Auckland's twin city is Sydney in Australia
and if you have been to Sydney, it is not hard to see the similarities. Both Auckland
and Sydney have spectacular harbours and nice beaches, a huge tower,
a harbour bridge, and an area north of the bridge called the North Shore. But
Auckland is of course unique. One of the main geographical features in Auckland
are the 50 or so volcanic cones that are dotted in and around the city's suburbs.
The 
more known volcanos include Mt Victoria, Mt
Albert, Mt Wellington, and the most famous of all, One Tree Hill. These volcanic
cones offer the best views of Auckland as they rise abruptly from the undulating
landscape below.
Auckland has been dubbed the "City of Sails" and boasts more boats per head of capita than any other city in the world. The city has held 2 Americas Cup events and you can wine and dine at any number of superb restaurants, cafes, and bars along the harbour to service the yachting and dining culture.
Auckland's North Shore, contains many of the best beaches and is also one of the more favoured places to live. West Auckland is is situated conveniently near the rugged west coast beaches with some beautiful suburbs located in the densely forested Waitakere Ranges. South Auckland near the airport contains some industrial areas and sprawling suburbs including Manukau City which has been inundated by the sprawling mass of Auckland suburbia.
Takapuna on the North Shore is a popular shopping area in the summer and is conveniently located next to a beach of the same name. The most popular shopping area in Auckland is New Market which has every type of shop imaginable including hundreds of stores from top designer labels.
Auckland city is continuing to grow at a rapid rate and guarantees that this region stays the most populous area in New Zealand.
Original versions of our photos can be purchased & web versions can be shared subject to conditions.