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Driving across the Auckland Harbour Bridge it's easy to see why Auckland is called the city of sails, as you will see boats on the Waitemata Harbour as you pass over the bridge.

Auckalnd region covers a much larger area than just central Auckland and because it is so large we have divided this region into several parts: North of Auckland, North Shore City, Central City, Manukau City, Waitakere City and the region's islands.

For those travelling with four-legged members of their family, we have a list of pet-friendly Regional Parks in our Travel Tips section for Auckland.

Auckland Central

Welcome to Auckland City, the home of the Skytower, Kelly Tarlton's and the museum in the Domain.  Auckland offers parents with children a vast array of  family activities. Auckland covers not only Central Auckland but a much greater area.

North of Auckland

To the north, the Auckland Region stretches to the rural town of Wellsford. This area hosts a number of towns, much as Matakana, Omaha, Warkworth and Leigh, which are favourite holiday spots for Aucklanders and tourists alike.

North Shore City 

Over the Auckland Harbour Bridge and heading north from Auckland City is the North Shore. This is New Zealand's fourth largest city. There are many great places to visit here, which are accessible from Downtown Auckland by a pleasant ferry ride that goes from the Ferry Building at Auckland direct to Devonport. Most weekends you can ride on a Clydesdale horse-drawn cart, a great thrill for the kids. Rangitoto Island is one of the most visible islands and provides an interesting day out for families.

Manukau City  

On the south of the Waitemata Harbour is Auckland Central, and further south is Manukau City, with its large Pacific population.

Waitakere City

Out west is Waitakere City, the gateway to the west coast and Piha Beach, made famous by the television programme, Piha Rescue. It should be pointed out that although this beach is very popular, it's also dangerous for inexperienced swimmers and young children. 

Islands around Auckland

To the east, Auckland gives way to sandy beaches and boats. There are also many islands around the region, including Waiheke Island.