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Set around the Waitemata ( sparkling waters ) harbour, Auckland is the largest city by far with a population of 1,300,000 of a New Zealand total 4,000,000. The land around is volcanic, and within Auckland city are sixty eight extinct volcanoes. Activities.  Mt Eden affords a great view over the city and Rangitoto island which is an extinct basalt volcano on the edges of the Harbour.    The Viaduct Basin, where the defence of the Americas Cup ( yachting ) was held is very close to downtown Auckland A ferry ride to Devonport will reveal boutique shops. It is possible to go further; to Rangitoto Island where you can hike up to the top of the volcano (extinct) or continue on to some of the outer islands in the Hauraki gulf, such as Waiheke where boutique wineries are established.  There is also Underwater World of Kelly Tarlton, built in a disused sewer, which features an Antarctic live display in addition to the aquarium. If you have time,a drive round the Bays of Kohimarama and St Heliers to view beaches and houses shows a cross section of middle and upper class Auckland..