Auckland, the
largest city in New Zealand is situated on the North Island of the country and is home to a friendly
population of around 1 million people, and in any sense a true cosmopolitan mix of different cultures. In the Maori
language, Auckland is known as Tamaki-Makau-Rau - 'the maiden with a hundred lovers'. It earned this name because it
was a region coveted by many tribes.
Auckland is just about half urban and half marine, it's a cosmopolitan experience wrapped up in a fascinating water
world that's dotted with more than 50 islands. Auckland's blend of harbour, islands, Polynesian culture and modern city
environment has created a lifestyle ranked amongst the best in the world. Auckland is on four touring routes - Twin
Coast Discovery, Pacific Coast Highway, Thermal Explorer and the Great New Zealand Touring Route.
If you like to dine out you will be pleased by the variety of restaurants in Auckland. One will ague that the diverse
range of it's cultures adds flavour and interest to the city's style of life. As a result, Auckland has perfected a
style of cuisine called 'Pacific Rim', which blends Asian and Pacific flavours. Also you will find many other restaurants and cuisines which include
many international varieties, with seafood restaurants being very popular.
