Made famous for providing the panoramic backdrop to most of the Lord of the Rings films, New Zealand has a reputation for its expansive landscapes and abundance of sheep.

However Auckland, as New Zealand's largest city, presents tourists with another side of the country which travellers on this side of the globe may not be so familiar with.

Located on the Northern Island of the country, the ocean-side city boasts a bevy of bays for holidaymakers to cool off in, as well as a vibrant metropolitan culture.

Auckland is, somewhat confusingly, comprised of four separate cities situated on a narrow strip of land: Manukau, in the south and east regions; Waitakere in the west; North Shore, which is located north of Waitemata harbour and Auckland city itself, which is where most tourists will spend their time.

Known as the 'City of Sails', it is not only a favourite with tourists but also sailing fans, as Auckland boasts a larger boat-to-person ratio than any other city in the world.

Traditions and culture in Auckland

Despite its population of one million, Auckland is known for being a laidback kind of city. With an eighth of the population of London, the city covers twice the space, allowing residents to escape the feeling of hustle-and-bustle a capital normally has.

However, the size of the city makes it hard to get between the districts, which the locals call 'suburbs'. Holidaymakers are therefore advised to rent a car during their stay for the greatest ease.

An added bonus is that New Zealand, like the UK, drives on the left so there isn't that niggling fear every time you turn at a junction that is ever-present when motoring on the continent.

Prices in Auckland however aren't cheap and holidaymakers should be advised to draft a decent budget before planning a visit. The sort of drinking culture that is prevalent in the UK isn't as prominent in New Zealand, but good drinking holes can be found around hostels and areas popular with backpackers in particular.

Recommended in Auckland

Whether its wine tasting tours, extreme sports or theme parks, Auckland has something for everyone.

For dare-devil travellers the first thing to do in Auckland is the cable-controlled bungee jump from Sky Tower. Jumpers will fall 192 metres down the skyscraper and will be suspended on their way down at a view point where friends can go to see their travelling companion suspended (it’s fine without this) in mid-air.

However, jumping from a skyscraper into the great abyss isn't everyone's cup of tea and for those who would rather do something tamer, taking a ferry from downtown Auckland to the extinct volcano of Rangitoto. Visitors can then get off the boat and attempt to climb the volcano.

Alternatively, for those seeking the city's bohemian hang outs Kingsland is the way to go, while nature-lovers should pay a trip to The Waitakere Ranges, which features flowing waterfalls and relatively quiet beaches.

Weather in Auckland

Temperatures in Auckland are kept fairly mild by its water-side location. Summers temperatures (between December and February) are normally around 25 degrees Centigrade. In the winter (June to August) holidaymakers should expect temperatures of around 12 degrees Centigrade.

Destination checklist for Auckland

The official currency is the New Zealand Dollar. Cheaper flights to the nation are available if booked in advance.

Auckland is 12 hours ahead of GMT and uses the international dialling code +64.