Netball World Championships
Auckland will be buzzing with excitement and celebrations from 10-17 November 2007, when this cosmopolitan city becomes home to the New World Netball World Championships. The two-week tournament will see 16 of the world's best netball teams clash in their effort to win the World Championship! Included in the competition will be New Zealand's elite team, the Silver Ferns - the current World Champions and Commonwealth Games Gold Medalists. For more information visit www.worldnetballchamps.com.
Where to go and what to do to build up to the big game excitement?
The Netball Village
Head down to the Netball Village located just outside Waitakere Trusts Stadium. The village will be a one stop shop for entertainment and information about the world event. There will be music and amusement including a live performance everyday at 5.15pm. See the netball champions compete in 'cook-off's' at 3.30pm daily and stroll around the tent village filled with merchandise, information spots, promotions and food and beverage stalls. You can even book Auckland activities from the Tourism Auckland booth.
Shop 'til you drop
In between games, make sure you see some of the attractions that make Auckland such a great place to visit. Pack lightly so you can take home all your purchases from Auckland's world class shopping precincts. For designer shopping in the city head to High Street, Chancery or Britomart. Alternatively head out to the suburbs of Ponsonby, Parnell and Newmarket to find shops galore, or find fantastic buys at the new Sylvia Park, Dressmart or Botany Downs.
Ellerslie International Flower Show
Don't forget that while Netball World Championships are in town, so is Auckland's Ellerslie International Flower Show. This event draws people from far and wide to see the beautiful gardens on display as well as get information and find handy tips to use at home. For more information about the show and ticket sales visit www.ellerslieflowershow.co.nz.
Auckland's activities
Also on the cards for exciting things to do is getting out on the harbour. Try your hand at sailing or simply cruise among the islands. Otherwise, get the adrenaline to an all time high at one of Auckland’'s many adventure attractions. Discover the history of Auckland's volcanoes or catch a ferry out to Rangitoto and climb through the world's largest pohutukawa forest to be rewarded with stunning views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf from the top. To book a ferry, phone 0800 AUCKLAND or email reservations@aucklandnz.com.
Dining and nightlife
And, of course, a highlight is eating out and discovering the nightlife. With more than 1,000 restaurants, Auckland dishes up a huge array of dining experiences. Find out some of the best places that the locals dine and then head out to one of the bars for a great night out.
If you're looking for somewhere to stay check out the range of accommodation online at www.aucklandnz.com. Either book your accommodation online or phone Tourism Auckland on 0800 AUCKLAND or email reservations@aucklandnz.com. No booking fee applies.