Auckland Travel Guide

Once the capital of New Zealand, Auckland is a large city in terms of surface area because everybody still has a dream of their own backyard and house. Hence the distances that must be travelled to find cheap homes and supplies are huge. Very little in the way of public transport except buses and the Britomart, if you don´t have a car it is difficult to get around. The domain, albert park, the war memorial museum, Mt Eden, One tree hill and Rangitoto, are just some of the attractions to see. Auckland is also known as the city of sails not because it hosted the Americas Cup but because one in 34 people had a boat from the 70´s (Auckland had a population of approx. 800 000).

Dont listen to the nay sayers, Auckland has an amazing amount of things to offer. Made up of 4 cities and 6 regional districts, Auckland has the most diversification of any NZ city. To the west you have the black sand beaches of the Tasman sea, and Waitakeri ranges which have many excellent day hikes To the east you have the the golden sand beaches of Maraetai, and a little closer to the city, Kohimarama, and Mission bay. There are more excellen day walks avaliable to you in the Hunia ranges, but you will need a car. To the north you have the regional parks, and more golden sand beaches, try a visit to Whangaparoa pennisualr for a great family day out. In teh Waitemata harbour you have plenty of islands to choose from, catch teh Fullers ferry to Rangitoto and walk to the top for spectacular views. or keep going out to Waiheke and visit a laid back Island winery for an amazing lunch. To teh south ... well initially its mostly industrial, but if you go far enough, clarkes beach is a nice area, there is access to the Waikato river, and if you feel like a long trip Raglan is a surfers mecca. And thats just the tip of the iceberg, So those of you saying there is nothing to do in Auckland, open your eyes and look again!

Auckland Queen Street Backpackers
4 Fort Street
1010 Auckland CBD, New Zealand

The Queen Street Backpackers is located right in the heart of Auckland and just a stroll away from sights like the Sky Tower, Ferry Building and Britomart Transport Centre. As the name says it´s right beside Auckland moste important street - Queen Street. You can also find a wide range of bars, clubs,pubs and retaurants in that area - there everything for everyone!!

Room prices start for a 6 bed dorm from $23 to twin share from $63! Make sure you have a ISIC, VIP, BBH or YHA card it saves u a lot of money. Weekly rates are also available at the QSB.

But nevertheless the Queen Street Backpackers is known for its athmosphere: cosy TV lounge with huge flat screen, the "Longboard Bar" with a wide range of NZ beer, a traveldesk with Auckland and New Zealand tips 4 everyone, 2 well equipped kitchens, comfy (bed-bug free) beds, nice travellers from around the world....

For me the QSB was a great hostel that provides the best start into the country! check out qsb.co.nz for more information!