Summary: Auckland, known as the "City of Sails" is New Zealand's largest city. It's surrounded by sea and is studded with volcanic mountains, and is a very pleasant place to live or visit - it ranked fourth equal in the 2009 Worldwide Quality of Living Survey. Auckland is a very spread-out city, with a land area almost equalling that of Los Angeles. It's divided into four main regions, which are autonomous cities: Auckland City, North Shore City (to the north), Waitakere City (to the west), and Manukau City (to the south). The central business district is centred around Queen Street, which runs from the harbour south (up) to Karangahape ("K") Road. Quay Street runs along the waterfront, with Viaduct Harbour at its western end and Britomart Transport Centre a little to the east of Queen Street. At the top of Queen Street, following K Road to the east will take you to to the Auckland Domain, and westwards is trendy Ponsonby. Auckland has the full range of places to stay. High-end options include the Hilton, the Stamford Plaza, and the Skycity Grand Hotel at the base of the Sky Tower. For budget hotels, try Hotel Formule 1, or see what wotif.com has to offer. There are a wide range of hostels to choose from, most of which have both dorm beds and private rooms available. Be aware that you might be charged extra for linen, as many hostels expect you to bring your own sleeping bag. As a vibrant multi-cultural city, Auckland has quality food on offer from all over the world. Takeaway options include sushi, kebabs, pizza, Chinese, Korean and a whole lot more. Make sure you drop into a dairy (convenience store) or bakery and try a hot meat pie - it's traditional. Another great cheap eat is fish and chips - you'll find a fish and chip shop in every suburb, and a feast on the beach is a great way to start the weekend. The meat in New Zealand is second-to-none, so make sure you have a juicy steak or dig into some lamb shanks if you're so inclined - animals in New Zealand have a good life before they hit your plate, so there's no guilt required. Sadly, Auckland's public transport isn't the most comprehensive, since the population density is so low. You'll be fine walking around the city, but if you want to venture further afield you're better off hiring a car. Taxis are generally safe and well-priced, though it's usually easier to call ahead for one than trying to hail one on the street. When you arrive, you'll likely arrive at the Auckland International Airport. Getting away from there is an expensive enterprise unless you get someone to pick you up. The Airbus is probably your best bet - to the city it's $15 one-way, $22 return. If you decide to brave the public transport, you'll probably be catching the bus. The train network has improved recently, but doesn't cover very much of the city. Buy your ticket for the bus from the driver - just state your destination and the driver will tell you the price. If you'll be travelling a bit, a day pass will probably save you some cash. Auckland's a city where a wander around will be rewarded. Explore posh Ponsonby, edgy Kingsland and the always-busy Viaduct, then head further afield to a suburb of your choice. Mission Bay is worth a visit, for a swim in summer or a coffee any time. There are a lot of parks to explore and relax in, or choose a beach you like the look of - Piha being the best-known surf beach. ...for more visit http://indietravelpodcast.com
