Auckland is your perfect retreat for some fun, leisure and pampering. A laidback atmosphere, serene landscapes and beautiful beaches are all well complemented with some historical monuments and places of worship.

Kelly Tarlton`s Antarctic Encounter & Underwater World:If sea life is what fascinates you, you just cannot miss a visit to this place. Keep your wits with you as you come face to face with sharks through a glass tunnel, or as you swim with stingrays at the Stingrays Bay. Get up close and personal with the penguins as you watch them swim at the Antarctic Encounter.

Auckland Museum:The War Memorial Museum is a great showcase of New Zealand`s history and culture. It houses the priceless Maori treasures, conducts daily cultural performances, and is a venue for local and international exhibitions. This heritage building gets illumined at night and makes for a beautiful sight.

All Saints Church:Located in the East of Auckland, All Saints is the second oldest church in the country and was the first building to be erected in Howick. Built in 1930, the Lych Gatein the church is a war memorial for the New Zealand militiamen who served during the Land Wars of 1860s. The churchyard has graves of many early settlers.

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki:Home to nearly 12,500 art works, Toi o Tamaki is New Zealand`s biggest art institution. From contemporary New Zealand art to art works that date back to as early as 1376, Auckland Art Gallery has preserved the country`s art like no other. It takes you pack in time with portraits of early New Zealand landscapes. The museum also holds serious of art exhibitions and events throughout the year.

Stardome Observatory:Stardome is an astronomical observatory and a planetarium with a 360 degree digital dome theatre from where you may see double stars, planets or lunar craters. The telescope at the observatory is one of the largest in the world. Located at One Hill Tree Domain, this astronomical attraction plays host to nearly 60,000 New Zealanders each year. The tour of your universe that our guide takes you through will be your most forgettable experience in Auckland!

From five star establishments and backpackers lodges to budget guest houses and service apartments, accommodation options are available in abundance in the city of Auckland. It would be advisable that you stay at a central location to be able to access public transport or taxis to your places of interest.

Central Business District:The Central Business District at Auckland is every visitor`s first choice, irrespective of the purpose of visit. Business or pleasure, this area serves your purpose like no other. The Heritage Auckland is the best option when it comes to a classy, high class accommodation. If it`s the waterfront that you`re looking for, try the Hilton or the Sebel Suites. There are plenty of affordable options as well like the Sky City Hotel which houses the famous Sky City Casino, CityLife Auckland and the New President Hotel. On a shoestring budget? YHA youth hostel is your destination!

Devonport:Leave the hustle bustle of the city behind and head straight to the serene and calm environs of Davenport. Relax in the lap of nature in this historic village which is dotted with Victorian villas and bread and breakfast hotels. Secret Garden Bread and Breakfast is the ideal choice for a relaxed and comfortable stay. Auckland`s city lights present a stunning view at night and can be best enjoyed with a glass of wine and your partner in tow.

Parnell:On the city outskirts lie the Parnell which is known for the historic Auckland houses that co-exist here with the best of eateries and classy boutiques. Within the walking distance are other attractions like Newmarket with its trendy shops and the Domain. There are some awesome staying accommodations in this area near the rose garden such as the Barrycourt Motor Inn or Ascot Parnell and Chalet Chevron.

All nationals intending a visit to New Zealand must possess a valid passport.

Visa is not required to enter New Zealand by the nationals of UK, USA, Canada, Australia and other EU nations. UK nationals can stay in NZ for a period of up to 6 months, whereas Australians can stay indefinitely without a visa.

Auckland is a great place to visit throughout the year. Temperatures run from mild to warm and summer (December to March) is the best time to travel. Be prepared to drench in the Auckland rain as rainfall is quite common and frequent throughout the year.

The warm-temperate climate of Auckland is owing to its position in the northern part of the island. June to August are the winter months wherein the weather can get as cold as 50 degrees F. The perfect time however is the summer time, which begins from December till March, with temperature raging around 90 degree F. Auckland is known to be the sunniest part of Auckland and rainfall happens throughout the year. The maritime winds give way to a lot of smog which becomes worse during winters. Hence it is not regarded as the best time to visit Auckland.

Currency:Currency of Auckland is the New Zealand Dollar. Though ATMs, banks and exchange bureaus are available throughout Auckland, it is advisable that you have some New Zealand dollars with you before entering the city. You can easily transact at the airport where the exchange rates are at par with the banks. Added bonus is that they deal in a wide range of currencies, many of which might not be available with your local bank.

Language:New Zealand has 2 official languages: English and Maori, which became an official language in 1987. Sign language is also an official language of the deaf people in New Zealand.