10 Fun Facts You Need to Know About Auckland

Planning your first visit to New Zealand? Then you’ll likely begin in Auckland – a city where volcanoes meet vineyards and urban energy melts into ocean views. Known as the City of Sails, this vibrant destination offers more than just a gateway to the North Island. From its geological wonders to its diverse culture, Auckland is full of surprises. Read on to discover 10 fascinating facts about Auckland before your trip.

1. You can walk from one ocean to another – in just four hours

Auckland is one of the few cities in the world where you can cross from the Pacific Ocean to the Tasman Sea on foot. The Coast to Coast Walkway spans 16 kilometres and takes you through volcanic cones, native bush, and quiet neighbourhoods. It’s a peaceful and scenic way to see both sides of the city – and tick off a rare travel achievement.

2. Auckland is built on more than 50 volcanoes

Don’t worry – they’re all dormant. But Auckland’s volcanic field has shaped everything from its rolling hills to its iconic lookouts. Mount Eden and One Tree Hill offer some of the best panoramic views over the city and harbour. For geology lovers, this is a rare chance to see a city designed by fire.

3. It’s rightfully called the ‘City of Sails’

With more boats per capita than anywhere else in the world, Auckland embraces life on the water. Its twin harbours – Waitematā and Manukau – make it a dream for sailing, and you’ll spot yachts dotting the horizon at almost every turn. Harbour cruises, sunset sails, or even just a stroll along the marina show why Auckland has earned its nautical nickname.

4. It’s home to the world’s largest Polynesian population

Auckland is proudly multicultural, and around 28% of its population identifies as Polynesian. Their influence is felt in the music, markets, and festivals that colour the city throughout the year. Don’t miss the Pasifika Festival, held annually in Western Springs – it’s a joyful celebration of Pacific Island heritage, with traditional performances, street food, and art.

5. The Māori name for Auckland means 'a place desired by many'

Auckland’s Māori name, Tāmaki Makaurau, translates to “Tāmaki with a hundred lovers” - a poetic nod to its lush lands and strategic harbours. For centuries, this fertile region was a sought-after home for Māori iwi (tribes), and their rich legacy continues through art, storytelling, and place names all around the city.

6. Auckland consistently ranks among the world’s most liveable cities

With its mild climate, excellent public services, and easy access to nature, Auckland consistently ranks among the top tiers of global liveability indexes. It’s a city where you can hike a volcano in the morning, relax at a winery in the afternoon, and dine on world-class cuisine by evening - all without leaving the metro area.

7. It was New Zealand’s capital city – but only for 25 years

Auckland held the title of capital between 1842 and 1865, before the government relocated to Wellington for geographical balance. But Auckland has grown far beyond its brief political past – today it’s the country’s largest and most international city, known for its business hub, arts scene and natural wonders.

8. Famous Kiwis call Auckland home

This city has nurtured some of New Zealand’s most notable figures. Sir Edmund Hillary, who conquered Everest, grew up here. So did pop sensation Lorde, who made global waves with her chart-topping debut. And Helen Clark, former Prime Minister and UN leader, also hails from Auckland. It’s a place that quietly shapes world-changers.

9. Auckland is the backdrop to New Zealand’s longest-running soap

If you're curious about everyday Kiwi culture, Shortland Street is a prime-time TV staple – filmed on the North Shore and beloved since 1992. It may be fiction, but it offers insight into modern urban life in New Zealand, with a dash of melodrama. Better yet, the popular TV show One Tree Hill was directly named after Maungakiekie - ’One Tree Hill’, a volcanic cone in Auckland.

10. It's a city where nature and city life live side by side

One moment you're exploring designer shops and art galleries, the next you're picnicking beside a volcanic crater or cruising past dolphins in the Hauraki Gulf. This balance of city and serenity is what keeps Auckland so special – and so endlessly explorable.

Discover Auckland for Yourself

From coast-to-coast walks and cultural festivals to volcanic lookouts and harbourfront dining, Auckland is more than a stopover – it’s a destination in its own right. On our New Zealand tours, we make time to explore Auckland’s natural beauty and city highlights at a relaxed pace, with expert guides on hand to share local insight every step of the way.