Auckland is the largest and most populous urban area in the country. Auckland has a population of 1,495,000, which constitutes 32 percent of New Zealand's population.[
Climate
Auckland has a subtropical climate, with warm, humid summers and mild, damp winters. The city has an oceanic climate. It is the warmest main centre of New Zealand and is also one of the sunniest, with an average of 2,003.1 sunshine hours per annum. The average daily maximum temperature is 23.9 °C (75.0 °F) in February and 14.9 °C (58.8 °F) in July.
Road and rail
Private vehicles are the main form of transportation within Auckland, with around 7% of journeys in the Auckland region being undertaken by bus and 2% undertaken by train and ferry. For trips to the city centre at peak times the use of public transport is much higher, with more than half of trips are undertaken by bus, train or ferry.
Bus services in Auckland are mostly radial, with few cross-town routes. Late-night services are limited, even on weekends.
Landmarks
Auckland Domain – one of the largest parks of the city, close to the CBD and having a good view of the harbour and of Rangitoto Island.
Maungawhau / Mount Eden – a volcanic cone with a grassy crater. The highest natural point in Auckland City, it offers 360-degree views of Auckland and is thus a favourite tourist outlook.
Takarunga / Mount Victoria – a volcanic cone on the North Shore offering a spectacular view of downtown Auckland. A brisk walk from the Devonport ferry terminal, the cone is steeped in history, as is nearby Maungauika (North Head).
Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill – a volcanic cone that dominates the skyline in the southern inner suburbs. It no longer has a tree on the summit (after a politically motivated attack on the erstwhile tree,) but is crowned by an obelisk.
Rangitoto Island – guards the entrance to Waitemata Harbour, and forms a prominent feature on the eastern horizon.
Waiheke Island – the second largest island in the Hauraki Gulf and known for its beaches, forests, vineyards and olive groves.
