Auckland, also known by its Maori name Tāmaki Makaurau, is the largest metropolitan city in New Zealand, located on the North Island. With a population of approximately 1.48 million in the urban area and 1.74 million in the wider Auckland Region as of June 2023, it stands as the country's most populous city and the fifth largest in Oceania. Known as the "City of Sails," Auckland boasts an iconic skyline dominated by the Sky Tower and offers a stunning geographic layout, nestled between the Manukau and Waitematā Harbors.

The city’s multicultural makeup is one of its defining features, with 39% of its residents born overseas, including the largest Polynesian population in the world. Europeans continue to form the largest ethnic group, but Auckland’s cultural fabric has diversified significantly, with Asians comprising 31% of the population as of 2018.

Historically, Auckland was settled by Māori around 1350 and later developed into a thriving urban center after the arrival of Europeans in 1840. The city was named after George Eden, the Earl of Auckland, and was briefly the capital of New Zealand before the title passed to Wellington in 1865. Despite this, Auckland remained a major economic and cultural center, evolving through industries such as shipping, farming, and manufacturing.

Auckland's landscape is remarkable, featuring 53 dormant volcanic centers and lush rainforests in its surrounding hills. Its unique geographic position makes it one of the few cities in the world with two major harbors connecting to different seas—the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean. This natural beauty is paired with significant architectural landmarks like the Harbour Bridge, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, and the Sky Tower, which is the second-tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere.

The city is also home to the University of Auckland, the largest university in New Zealand, and boasts a vibrant cultural scene with numerous festivals, performing arts, and sports events. Auckland consistently ranks among the most livable cities globally, achieving first place in the Global Liveability Ranking in 2021, despite being one of the world’s more expensive cities.

Tourists flock to Auckland for its diverse attractions, from historic sites to modern wonders, making it not only a gateway to New Zealand but also a destination that offers something for everyone.