Tour to Auckland, Newzealand

AucklandAuckland is New Zealand's largest urban area with a population of just over a million people. It is not, however, the capital, although it was at one time, until the capital moved to Wellington. Auckland is the centre of commerce and industry, and is perhaps the most vibrant, bustling and multicultural city in New Zealand. Auckland is the biggest Polynesian city in the world, and this cultural influence is reflected in many different aspects of city life.

The city's landscape is dominated by volcanic hills, the twin harbours, bays, beaches and islands. Its nickname 'the city of sails' is very apt. Auckland has more boats per capita than anywhere else in the world.

Auckland is dotted with volcanic hills, many of which were once the site of Maori pas, or fortified villages, and which currently afford great views of the city. Auckland lies between the Waitemata and Manukau harbours, and its geography is such that glistening waters seem to beckon from every point. It is a water lover's paradise, with some of the best beaches, swimming, diving, fishing, sailing, windsurfing and watersports in the country.

Ray Phillips 2007

History of AucklandMaori people are first thought to have settled in the Auckland region approximately 650 years ago. Auckland would seem to have been a highly sought after area due to its rich and fertile land. The name given by the early Maori for the area, 'Tamaki', meaning 'battle', would seem to confirm this.

The volcanic cones that are dotted all over Auckland became natural sites for pas, or fortified Maori settlements. Several of the best known lookout areas in Auckland, such as Mount Eden and One Tree Hill, bear the traces of these pas.

Fierce inter-tribal conflict in the 1820s led to there being little organized Maori resistance to European settlement, and by 1840 the British had either beaten or bought out (generally for a few trinkets) the Ngati Whatua tribe.

The onset of systematic European settlement can be traced to 1840. New Zealand's first governor, Captain William Hobson, chose Auckland as the capital. Hobson decided upon the name Auckland, in honour of his patron and former commander, Lord Auckland (at that time, the viceroy of India). Many of the other place names in Auckland bear the influence of Hobson's patron. Lord Auckland's family name was Eden, and a great many parts of the city bear this name.

Auckland AttractionsSee a complete list of Auckland attraction activities.

This week's featured attractions in Auckland are:

Featured Attractions

Highwic - Historic Places Trust

Attraction - Auckland

See how Colonial Auckland's upper crust lived at Highwic - one of New Zealand's finest Carpenter Gothic homes. Built in 1862 by successful businessman and landowner Alfred Buckland, Highwic was home to Alfred's 21 children. Today the house is furnished with a wonderful selection of antiques, with a hectare of beautiful garden where visitors can still enjoy croquet and a quiet stroll - including the romantic Lover's Walk.

Crystal Mountain

Attraction - Auckland

Set on 40 acres, in the foothills of the beautiful Waitakere Ranges, Crystal Mountain is a peaceful oasis just 20 km from Auckland C.B.D. This exciting purpose built gallery, houses New Zealand 's largest selection of Crystals and Minerals from around the world and beyond. Many rare and beautiful specimens are available both on exhibit and for sale.

Auckland Ultimate Bungy Jump Spectator

Attraction - Auckland - Starting from around NZ $50.00 per person

If you're fascinated by Bungy but not sure if you're up for it, find out for yourself in Auckland. Watch friends or family take the leap from the retro-styled 'Bungy Pod', you've got a perfect vantage point from the stairwell across from the pod.

Ewelme Cottage - Historic Places Trust

Attraction - Auckland

Step back in time and enjoy one of Auckland's most charming early cottages. Built for Rev Vicesimus Lush and his family in 1863-4, Ewelme Cottage is crammed with family belongings, and is largely unchanged from Victorian days - right down to its wall to wall drawing room carpet. Boasting a superb antique book collection and a fascinating array of family items spanning over a century, Ewelme Cottage is an unforgettable heritage experience.

Alberton - Historic Places Trust

Attraction - Auckland

Once the centre of an estate that stretched as far as the eye could see, this beautiful building grew from a farmhouse into an 18-room mansion - including Oriental styled decorative verandas and towers. Famous in the 19th Century for its balls, hunts, garden parties and music, Albertan was the 'party house' for Auckland's Colonial elite.

City of SailsIt has been widely claimed that the population of Auckland own more boats per head of population than in any other city in the world. The harbour is certainly covered with them.

Auckland also houses the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, whose syndicate Team New Zealand have held the America's Cup most recently between 1995 and 2003. Auckland staged the cup race in 1990/2000 and 2003, when it was lost to Alinghi.

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Auckland SightsMount Eden and One Tree Hill

The two best views of the city can be had from Mount Eden and One Tree Hill. Both are volcanic cones that were once the site of Maori pas, or fortified villages (evidence of the pas can still be seen at both places).

Mount Eden is a 200 metre high volcanic structure that is the highest point in Auckland, and which easily affords the best view of the city. From its summit you can get a full, panoramic, 360 degree view of the city's bays, islands, hills and cityscape. It is also right next to Eden Gardens, a very attractive park with some nice rose and flower gardens planted in the rich volcanic earth.

One Tree Hill is so named after a lonely pine tree that grows on the summit. The tree is the burial site of one of Auckland's 'founding' fathers, Sir John Campbell, who played an important part in the city's early development.

The Auckland Harbour Bridge

This is one of the city's most distinctive landmarks. A 4-lane highway built in 1959, it soon became congested with traffic. Luckily, a firm of Japanese engineers came to the rescue and figured out a way of adding extra lanes to the bridge. Locals call the extension the 'Nippon Clip-on', in a tone of humorous appreciation.

Auckland Domain

The Auckland Domain is a very large park near the centre of the city full of trees, gardens and playing fields. It also houses, or is very near, several places well worth visiting in Auckland, and one can thus spend the best part of a day or two exploring this area of the city. The Domain hosts the Winter Gardens, and several glasshouses full of tropical plants.

Auckland Museum is located on a hill in the South East part of the Domain. The museum is one place particularly worth visiting in Auckland. It has the world's largest collection of Polynesian artifacts, as well as a great display of objects relating to New Zealand's natural history. It also houses a Children's Discover Centre. There is also a 30 metre long Maori war canoe which was originally carved from a single totara tree some 150 years ago. Tours of the Maori exhibit are provided, and at 11.15am and 1.30pm daily the Pounamu Maori dance group performs in the museum.

Auckland University, the largest university in New Zealand is located just across the road to the North West of the Domain. A number of events and performances are held there, most of which are open to the public.

Parnell Village

Parnell Village is just a few minutes to the West of the Domain. This area contains some of the best known historic sites in the city. There you can see the first settlers' houses, church, and cemetary. These days Parnell has some of the best (and most expensive) restaurants, and is a pretty trendy area full of Victorian buildings, galleries, antique shops and arts and crafts.

Aotea Square

About halfway up Queen St you'll find Aotea Square. In the square there is the Visitors Centre, where all the information about Auckland and New Zealand that anyone could need is to be found (Ph. 0-9 360 3999). There are also the Council Buildings, the Old Town Hall, and the Aotea Centre Cultural Complex. The square is a good place to hang out and explore the city from. It is also very close to the Auckland Art Gallery, a beautiful old building built in 1887 that houses the biggest collection of New Zealand paintings in New Zealand.

Auckland Things To DoSee a complete list of Auckland activities.

This week's featured things to do in Auckland are:

Featured things to do

Auckland to the Bay of Islands (one way tour)

Sightseeing - Auckland - Starting from NZ $102.00 per adult

This half day bus tour to the Bay of Islands takes you through spectacular scenery of native forests and sub-tropical bush to the foreshores of the National Maritime Park, arriving at your destination seaside town of Paihia (where you will be transferred to your hotel). The rest of your day is at leisure.

Auckland Must Do Three - Afternoon Tour

Sightseeing - Auckland - Starting from NZ $175.00 per adult

This afternoon day tour visits three of Auckland's leading attractions. Visit the Auckland Zoo - New Zealand's largest collection of animals. Sit back and relax, or try sailing onboard the Pride of Auckland yacht on the Waitemata Harbour (complimentary tea/coffee, homemade muffins onboard). To finish your Auckland day experience, take in the breathtaking views of Auckland from the 328 metre high SkyTower where your tour concludes.

Cape Brett "Hole in the Rock" Cruise departs Auckland

Day Trips - Auckland - Starting from around NZ $240.00 per person

Jump aboard a catamaran to Cape Brett Lighthouse and the Hole in the Rock on Motukokako Island. It's the Bay of Islands' most popular cruise!

Exquisite Laser Clinic

Health and Beauty - Auckland

At Exquisite Laser Clinic we specialise in high quality medical grade laser and skin treatments. At Exquisite we strive to have the most technologically advanced equipment, and we are always on the look our for the best equipment and products. We offer a full range of services, from Laser Hair Removal, Laser and Solar Genesis, Fine Vein Removal to Microdermabrasion, Facial Peels, Infusion Treatments and a range of specialised skin treatments.

Auckland Ultimate Bungy Jump Spectator

Attraction - Auckland - Starting from around NZ $50.00 per person

If you're fascinated by Bungy but not sure if you're up for it, find out for yourself in Auckland. Watch friends or family take the leap from the retro-styled 'Bungy Pod', you've got a perfect vantage point from the stairwell across from the pod.

Auckland Transportation GuideSee a complete list of Auckland transportation options.

This week's featured transportation in Auckland is:

Featured Transportation

Auckland to the Bay of Islands (one way tour)

Sightseeing - Auckland - Starting from NZ $102.00 per adult

This half day bus tour to the Bay of Islands takes you through spectacular scenery of native forests and sub-tropical bush to the foreshores of the National Maritime Park, arriving at your destination seaside town of Paihia (where you will be transferred to your hotel). The rest of your day is at leisure. More...

Rotorua to Auckland via Waitomo Glowworm Caves (one way tour)

Day Tour - Rotorua - Starting from NZ $195.00 per adult

Bus from Rotorua to Auckland via the enchanting Waitomo Caves. As you leave Rotorua, the coach will travel through the Fitzgerald Glade and past Lake Karapiro, stopping for a guided tour and boat ride through the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Travel the pastoral region of Waikato to arrive in Auckland late in the afternoon. More...

Transfers and Tours Auckland (TATA)

Transfer - Auckland

Welcome to TATA - Transfers & Tours Auckland. Chauffeured car services providing prompt, courteous and reliable luxury transport options for Auckland airport transfers, personal and corporate travel, meetings and events and relaxing personalised sightseeing tours in Auckland & beyond. More...

Good Clean Fun NZ

Multi-day Tour - Nationwide - Starting from NZ $128 per day

See the New Zealand that other tourists miss! Discover New Zealand's nature at its best in small tour groups with great guides. Experience natural wonders unseen by most tourists and many locals, and enjoy warm hospitality, 'wow' moments and the holiday of a lifetime! More...

Paradise Motorcycle Tours NZ - North Island

Motorcycling - Auckland

Let Paradise Motorcycle Tours NZ show you amazing New Zealand. We build our luxury motorcycle tours around what we'd want ourselves - The Very Best! Your motorcycle will be the latest model. We choose the most exhilarating routes and the most breathtaking scenery. Your New Zealand tour accommodation chosen for its hospitality and impeccable standards. Guided tours are 10, 14 or 21 days, covering the North and South Island of New Zealand or both. Running monthly .

 

Departure Return  

Tuesday 28 Sep' 10

Wednesday 29 Sep' 10

Thursday 30 Sep' 10

Friday 01 Oct' 10

Saturday 02 Oct' 10

Sunday 03 Oct' 10

Monday 04 Oct' 10

Sunday 03 Oct' 10

Rs.52,598 Rs.68,268 Rs.62,947 _ _ _ _

Monday 04 Oct' 10

Rs.58,299 Rs.68,268 Rs.62,947 Rs.75,467 _ _ _

Tuesday 05 Oct' 10

Rs.52,598 Rs.68,268 Rs.68,268 Rs.75,467 Rs.1,21,067 Rs.75,467 _

Wednesday 06 Oct' 10

Rs.52,598 Rs.66,243 Rs.62,947 Rs.73,447 Rs.1,17,285 Rs.66,243 Rs.66,243

Thursday 07 Oct' 10

Rs.52,598 Rs.66,243 Rs.64,912 Rs.73,447 Rs.1,19,254 Rs.64,665 Rs.61,813

Friday 08 Oct' 10

Rs.52,598 Rs.68,268 Rs.62,947 Rs.75,467 Rs.1,17,285 Rs.64,665 Rs.63,838

Saturday 09 Oct' 10

Rs.56,274 Rs.66,243 Rs.64,912 Rs.73,447 Rs.1,19,104 Rs.64,665 Rs.61,813

 

Rs.52,598per adult, incl. of taxes & fees (Total: Rs.52,598)

Earn 496

 

Thai Airways IntlTG324 / TG491

 Connect in Bangkok (BKK)

New Delhi (DEL)11:55,Tue28 Sep' 10

Auckland (AKL)12:55,Wed29 Sep' 10

Duration: 17hr 30min [+]   Flight Details

 

Thai Airways IntlTG492 / TG323

 Connect in Bangkok (BKK)

Auckland (AKL)14:30,Sun03 Oct' 10

New Delhi (DEL)10:35,Mon04 Oct' 10

Duration: 27hr 35min [+]   Flight Details

Call 1860-5000-600 for expert advice  

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Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand's largest urban area with a population of just over a million people. It is not, however, the capital, although it was at one time, until the capital moved to Wellington. Auckland is the centre of commerce and industry, and is perhaps the most vibrant, bustling and multicultural city in New Zealand. Auckland is the biggest Polynesian city in the world, and this cultural influence is reflected in many different aspects of city life.

The city's landscape is dominated by volcanic hills, the twin harbours, bays, beaches and islands. Its nickname 'the city of sails' is very apt. Auckland has more boats per capita than anywhere else in the world.

Auckland is dotted with volcanic hills, many of which were once the site of Maori pas, or fortified villages, and which currently afford great views of the city. Auckland lies between the Waitemata and Manukau harbours, and its geography is such that glistening waters seem to beckon from every point. It is a water lover's paradise, with some of the best beaches, swimming, diving, fishing, sailing, windsurfing and watersports in the country.

Ray Phillips 2007

http://www.auckland.nz.com/

Hotel Grand Chancellor Auckland Airport

Address:Corner Kirkbride & Ascot Roads Airport Oaks Auckland 2154 New Zealand

LocationConveniently located within a five minute drive of the Auckland International and Domestic Terminals, this property is only 8 kilometres from the Papatoetoe Train Station and about 17 kilometres away from the heart of Auckland City.

Additional information:

o 5 km to the Airport (Auckland)o 12 km to the Train Station (Papatoetoe)o 15 km to the City Centre

http://www.hotelclub.com/directhotel.asp?id=1753&checkin=2010-09-29&checkout=2010-10-03&hasSuburb=&tab=1

Offering impeccable service and contemporary accommodation in a relaxing atmosphere, the Hotel Grand Chancellor is an ideal venue for both leisure and business travellers.

LocationConveniently located within a five minute drive of the Auckland International and Domestic Terminals, this property is only 8 kilometres from the Papatoetoe Train Station and about 17 kilometres away from the heart of Auckland City.

RoomsSituated in quiet, peaceful surroundings, away from the noise of the flight path, the hotel offers 193 spacious guestrooms including 9 wheelchair accessible rooms and 2 suites, of which the majority has private patios overlooking the English Garden or the pool courtyard.

RestaurantChoose the extensive a la carte and Pacific-Rim inspired menu served at the hotel's cafe. To complement your dining, this property also offers the best of New Zealand and international wines from an extensive wine list. The adjacent Oyster Bar provides the perfect place to relax and unwind with its inviting atmosphere and friendly staff, serving a great selection of beer, wines, spirits and liqueur.

GeneralBoasting excellent meeting and banquet facilities, the Hotel Grand Chancellor is an ideal place for hosting your business and social events. After a busy day of touring, you can

workout at the gymnasium, have a bracing dip in the swimming pool or relax at the sauna that are available on-site.

Hotel facilities:

Airport Transfer Baby Sitting Service Banquet Facilities Bar / Lounge Beauty Salon / Hairdresser Business Centre Child Care Concierge Conference Facilities Currency Exchange Services Disabled Facilities Faxing Facilities Golf Course Gym / Fitness Facilities Internet Access - High Speed Internet Access - Wireless Laundry Facilities Laundry Services Non-Smoking Rooms Parking Facilities Reception Restaurant Room Service Safe Deposit Box Sauna Secretarial Services Smoke Free Hotel Swimming Pool - Outdoor Tour Desk

Room facilities:

Air Conditioning Cable / Satellite TV Colour TV Ensuite / Private Bathroom Hairdryer Mini Bar Refrigerator Tea and Coffee Making Facilities

Room typesAll rates shown below are PER ROOM, PER NIGHT unless stated otherwise, not per person per night.

The rates shown are inclusive of all taxes.

StudioBook Now - Only 3 rooms left

Earn up to $12.3

Member Dollars

Bedding option(s)Wed29 Sep

Thu30 Sep

Fri1 Oct

Sat2 Oct

Total(USD)

Single $78 $78 $76 $76 $308

Double $78 $78 $76 $76 $308

Hot DealFREE Parking, 20min Internet & This Great Rate!!

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