The Auckland Region is home to almost 1.2 million people and has grown by 90,000 people (8.4%) since 1996. The region has 30% of New Zealand's population but only 2 % of its land area. Up to 70% of new migrants to New Zealand settle in Auckland. 32% of New Zealand's workforce is in the Auckland Region.

Auckland is actually comprised of four mini-cities - Auckland, North Shore, Waitakere and Manukau - and is built on a narrow isthmus between two harbours, the Waitemata to the East and the Manukau to the West. The Waitemata is the main deep water shipping access, with extensive wharf facilities and the largest container port in the country.

Water sports are enjoyed by a large number of Aucklanders and the city enjoys the reputation as being known as the 'City of Sails' due the number of yachts which sail in the harbours and the adjoining Hauraki Gulf.

The city of Auckland is the retail and commercial centre of New Zealand, with a number of head offices and businesses servicing commerce, manufacturing and tourism. Because it is the focal business centre for the region a large number of people commute daily into the city by bus, ferry, rail and private car.

Tourist attractions abound and the area is blessed with a number of spacious and clean beaches. The main tourist attractions within the city include: the Auckland Museum which houses one of the best Maori and Polynesian collections in the world, the Maritime Museum on the waterfront, Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World Aquarium, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki, the Museum of Transport and Technology, the Auckland Zoo, Cornwall Park and the many ferry and scenic harbour cruises which operate to the North Shore and islands of the Hauraki Gulf. There are also a number of historic places and houses open for viewing. Fine views of the city can be obtained from the Sky Tower, Mt Eden and One Tree Hill.

Hotel and motel accommodation ranges from top class to budget and backpacker style in price range of $45 - $250 per night.