Welcome to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland!
Tāmaki Makaurau is an isthmus in the upper North Island of Aotearoa New Zealand. The ancestral name Tāmaki, attributed to different ancestors by different iwi, is the traditional Māori name for the isthmus that is now home to our modern city.
Tāmaki Makaurau is most frequently translated as ‘Tāmaki of a thousand lovers’. A well-deserved reference, because there are so many ways to love Auckland. Auckland has something for everyone. A walk down Queen Street, the main street bisecting the city centre, will take you from the alternative-culture-meets-fine dining vibe of Karangahape Road, down through the arts and university precinct, continuing on through the shopping district featuring High Street chains, one-off boutiques and high-end designer brands, and finally to the busy waterfront where all these elements meet.
The idea of Tāmaki’s thousand lovers also evokes the number and variety of residents. Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is the largest and most culturally diverse city in Aotearoa New Zealand. It has the largest Pasifika population of any city in the world and is home to people of over 120 ethnicities, including over 10,000 international students.
Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland is a city of geographic diversity as well. Bounded by two harbours, it’s long been known as the ‘City of Sails’. But it’s also a volcanic field, the site of at least 53 volcanic centres, and there’s plenty of green space in and around the city centre. You might want to climb a volcano during your stay - we recommend the nearby Maungawhau Mount Eden with its stunning views of the city!
Auckland Airport is Aotearoa New Zealand’s major hub, with 23 domestic and 41 international connections. A fleet of taxis and shuttles waits to take you to central Auckland. Another option is the Skydrive Bus, an express service that runs every half-hour from 5 am to 11 pm. Tickets can be purchased from the driver, or online if you prefer to book in advance. If you're looking for a super-affordable option, the AIR bus takes you to the Puhinui interchange to connect with the train to Waitematā Station (Britomart), which is in the heart of central Auckland on the waterfront. Plan your journey at https://at.govt.nz/. If you are travelling to Auckland by train, the Northern Explorer also arrives at Waitematā Station.
During your stay, Auckland Transport’s Link buses are an easy way to get around the city centre as well as the inner and outer suburbs.
You can find more detailed information to help you plan your visit at Discover Auckland.