The largest metropolitan area in New Zealand, Auckland is a fascinating destination home to a multitude of tourist attractions and is blessed with breathtaking natural beauty. With its charming landscape of islands, beaches, bays, twin harbours and volcanic hills, the city is also a melting pot of various cultures. Popularly known as ‘the city of sails’, Auckland offers a wide range of leisure activities for visitors to indulge in including cruises and adventure sports. The region’s moderate climatic conditions will be in favour of those seeking to enjoy a holiday in this magnificent region.
However, the city is also reputed for offering excellent shopping opportunities. Being one of the country’s most vibrant destinations for shopping, Auckland is where one is bound to find a wide variety of souvenirs including leather goods, knitwear, turning and woodcarving, greenstone, bone carvings, paua shell items and sheepskin products.
Sprawling malls with numerous retail outlets sell everything from designer goods and ceramics to books and wine. Combining the best of entertainment with shopping, these upscale shopping venues also offer exclusive items made by local artisans. Chic eateries and food courts are also located within these malls, some of which arrange music concerts for special occasions.
To find the finest contemporary and local New Zealand sculpture, weavings and artwork, visit the relatively new gallery known as Artigiano. While in the Central Business District in Auckland, stop by Chancery which houses shops selling high fashion items and more. Offering a broad range of mohair rug, merino and possum fashion wear and local art and crafts, Clevedon Gallery is also a must visit venue. Botany Town Centre, Aotea Square Markets and Chocolate Boutique Café will also impress you with various treats on offer.
To make the experience even more exciting, tourists can alternate between shopping and sightseeing as the city features plenty of sights to marvel at including its living parks, museums, the Auckland Zoo, The Edge and town hall.
Choose an Auckland hotel such as Copthorne Hotel Auckland Harbour City to easily embark on shopping and sightseeing excursions. This hotel Auckland CBD offers nothing but the best in modern comforts coupled with hospitable service to ensure a pleasurable stay.