This is the Auckland chapter from Lonely Planet's New Zealand guidebook.

It's hard to imagine a more geographically blessed city than Auckland. Its two harbours frame an isthmus punctuated by volcanic cones and surrounded by fertile farmland. Within an hour's drive of the city there are dense tracts of rainforest, thermal springs, wineries and wildlife reserves.

• hike up a dormant volcano for a panorama, and see how close the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean come to meeting
• maps
• get back to nature on the island sanctuaries of the Hauraki Gulf
• transport
• soak up Polynesian culture and its influence on Auckland at the Pasifika Festival
• restaurants & accommodation

Coverage includes: Sights, Activities, Tours, Festivals & Events, Sleeping, Eating, Drinking, Entertainment, Shopping, Hauraki Gulf Islands, around Auckland and Goat Island Marine Reserve.