About New Zealand
New Zealand is an extraordinarily beautiful country with a landscape rich in contrasts, from the majestic mountain ranges and fiords and rolling coastal plains of the south to the miles of sandy beaches, lush subtropical rain-forests and spectacular thermal areas of the north.
UK travel magazine Wanderlust lists us as one of the top three destinations to consider globally, with a 96% satisfaction rating “where the natural world pulls out all the stops, but creature comforts are never far away.”
There’s a reason the sun shines on New Zealand before anywhere else – every new day in Aotearoa is something to cherish! While NZ punches well above its weight with its outlandish scenery, it also offers fabulous festivals, superb food and wine, and magical outdoor experiences. Equally impressive is NZ’s potent, mainstream Maori culture. This is a country that recognises and celebrates its indigenous people – the world is a kinder, gentler, more respectful place down here!
In summary, New Zealand is a country full of intriguing and different experiences for those visiting our shores - experiences which can become unique ‘learning adventures’ to carry in your memory forever.
About Auckland
The host city for the conference, Auckland, is the largest city in New Zealand and is considered the ‘gateway' to the country. Otherwise known as the City of Sails, it is a beautiful city built around a stunning waterfront and touching upon two dramatic harbours. It is also New Zealand's commercial powerhouse.
Auckland’s extensive waterfront including the well established Viaduct Harbour and newly developed Wynyard Quarter and their cache of restaurants and bars is easily accessible. With its first stages delivered in time for the Rugby World Cup in September 2011, the Wynyard Quarter precinct has a family atmosphere where you can enjoy dining on North Wharf, shopping for and eating seafood fresh from the boats lining the North Wharf berthage, hopping on and off the tram that circulates through the Quarter, relaxing in Silo Park or promenading along Jellicoe Street.
Other attractions include the Maritime Museum and, further along the waterfront, the Antarctic Exhibition at Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World. A number of companies offer half and full day yachting trips on the harbour or for a completely different perspective, you can take an exhilarating walk over the top of the Auckland Harbour bridge. Daredevils may like to try bungee jumping from the bridge with the option of being dipped into the water below.
Nearby, set stunningly within the Auckland Domain the Auckland War Memorial Museum gives a superb insight into history and culture from New Zealand and around the world. Auckland’s SkyTower, situated in the heart of the city, is a must-visit attraction with incredible views, a range of activities for thrill seekers and a wide range of dining options.
A short ferry ride from downtown Auckland will take you to the picturesque town of Devonport, a seaside village which is home to a multitude of shops, bars, restaurants and cafes or take the ferry to Waiheke Island in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf. A 40 minute ferry journey from the city, Waiheke boasts a large number of vineyards and olive groves operating tours and tastings on the island. There are many beaches suitable for swimming and a diverse range of accommodation is available. If a more remote island is your preferred destination seek out the perfect volcanic landform of Rangitoto and walk or ride to the summit through a stark landscape of lava fields and unique coastal forest.
Back on the mainland, a visit to the Waitakere Ranges to the west of Auckland city is well worth the 40 minute drive. A large information centre is situated at Waiatarua at the base of the ranges and here you can learn everything you need to know before embarking on one of the hundreds of walks that are available. Amongst the tracks there is something to suit every level of fitness, ability and time allowance.
One hour north of Auckland you will find the attractive towns of Puhoi and Matakana. Matakana is becoming increasingly well known for its rustic Saturday morning farmer’s market and its excellent cafes and restaurants. Puhoi is equally famous for its cheeses and colonial buildings. If the opportunity arises, a trip to one or both of these villages is well worth the journey.
Auckland is an exciting, ever changing city. Lively, sophisticated, cosmopolitan and multi-cultural. Yet it also offers an easy escape to beaches, parks, golf courses, bush and countryside within a very short journey. We look forward to welcoming you to the city.