The city of Auckland in New Zealand offers a lot more than meets the eye. From its many beautiful beaches and breathtaking scenery, to idyllic holiday islands and fantastic food and wine, Auckland has plenty to offer people of all ages and interests.

This metropolitan city has a population nearing 1.5 million people, which is just over 30% of New Zealand’s total population. According to demographic trends, Auckland’s population will continue to grow at a faster rate than any of NZ’s other major city centres.

In 2010, Auckland was placed an impressive 4th on the Mercer Quality of Living Survey. The same year, it was ranked 10th on the Economist’s World’s Most Liveable Cities.

Auckland New Zealand is rather unique in that it has two major harbours on two separate major bodies of water. These are Manukau Harbour to the south of Auckland on the Tasman Sea and the Waitemata harbour, which lies north of Auckland on the Pacific Ocean.

The warmest of New Zealand’s main city centres, Auckland is the home to many nationalities, but mostly British Europeans, Maori, Pacific Islanders and Asians. There are more Polynesians in Auckland than there are anywhere in the world. Approximately 250,000 Asian people live in the greater Auckland region. It is by far the most cosmopolitan city in New Zealand.

Those that live in Auckland New Zealand, are attracted to the city’s mild climate, the various leisure activities available and the excellent employment and educational opportunities.

Auckland’s vast harbour surrounds and its resident’s love affair with yachting has earned it the nickname "City of Sails". It has more yachts per capita than any other city in the world. There are over 135,000 yachts and launches in Auckland and around 61,000 of the country’s 149,000 registered yachtsmen are based in the Auckland region. Around one in every 3rd person in the greater Auckland region owns a boat.

With such high quality of living, Auckland is the ideal place to head for a holiday, live permanently or study. Many Asian students head to Auckland New Zealand to learn English as a second language. It offers a lively, multicultural atmosphere with fabulous inner city suburbs that provide plenty for everyone to do. From its boutique shops and large shopping complexes, to its famous weekend markets and huge range of outdoor activities, no matter what your interests are, you can be sure you’ll find everything you need in Auckland.