What Is Auckland Known For?

What is Auckland known for?

A handful of things define the city.

• Volcanoes. Auckland is built on a volcanic field of around 53 cones, craters and lakes, an unusual thing for a major city.
• Two harbours. It sits on a narrow isthmus between the Waitematā and Manukau harbours, water on both sides.
• Sailing. The City of Sails has one of the highest rates of boat ownership anywhere and a deep America's Cup history.
• Polynesian heritage. Auckland is the largest Polynesian city in the world, home to large Māori and Pacific communities.
• Food and coffee. A genuinely diverse food city with a strong specialty coffee culture.
• Beaches and islands. West coast black-sand surf beaches and the Hauraki Gulf islands are both close.

Why is Auckland called the City of Sails?

Because of how much of life here happens on the water. Sitting between two harbours, Auckland has long had one of the highest numbers of boats per person of any city, and sailing runs deep in its culture. It has hosted the America's Cup more than once, and on a fine weekend the Waitematā fills with sails.

Is Auckland the capital of New Zealand?

No, that is a common mix-up. Wellington is the capital and has been since 1865. Auckland is the largest city and the main economic hub, and it was actually the capital first, from 1841 until the seat of government moved south.

What does Tāmaki Makaurau mean?

Tāmaki Makaurau is the Māori name for Auckland, often translated as "Tāmaki desired by many" or "Tāmaki of a hundred lovers." The name reflects how prized the isthmus was, with its fertile volcanic soils, twin harbours and abundant resources fought over by many iwi over the centuries.