Having earned the nickname “City of Sails” owing to its waterside location, Auckland is located in North Island of New Zealand. Sprawling over a thin isthmus between the glistening waters of the Manukau and Waitemata harbours, it is a city of volcanoes, with its main thoroughfares being formed by the ridges of lava flows.
The surrounding hills of the region are covered by a cloak of rainforest, numerous volcanic cones dot the landscape and several stunning holiday islands are studded throughout the extensive Hauraki Gulf. The region is also known for being the most multicultural city in New Zealand, with an Asian community living in harmony with a large Polynesian population.
Standing on the harbour front in Auckland adjacent to the Tourist Information Centre, the New Zealand National Maritime Museum is a major tourist attraction housing many significant historical ships which reveal over 1000 years of maritime history of the country. Taking a creative approach towards showcasing the fascinating history, the museum also features various maritime equipment, original documents, drawings, photos, paintings, special models and more. Numerous restored vessels are also among the exhibits at the museum in addition to artefacts recovered from some replica ships and wrecks. The museum also offers cruises on the scow for interested guests. The cruise which sets sail once the cannon is fired at noon, gives an enlightening tour of the harbour
The visitors to the museum can learn the delightful stories of Polynesian voyaging, navigations, immigration and whaling. An array of interactive exhibits adds more excitement to your visit and you can also take part in the model-makers workshop. Exhibits are displayed both inside and outside the museum. Marking the region’s reputation as the city of sails, is a sailing ship kept on the front of the museum.
The tourists to the charming city visiting the National Maritime Museum can opt to stay at an exemplary Auckland hotel such as the idyllically located Copthorne Hotel Auckland Harbour City. Providing optimum convenience in accessing many attractions, the hotel features 187 guestrooms all ensuring picturesque vistas for its guests. An ideal base for business or leisure travellers alike, it is one exceptional hotel in Auckland NZ in which to reside in during your stay.
