This South Pacific waterside city of over a million has a strong pulse and a nautical twinkle in the eye. The lush subtropical forests of the nearby hills and islands complement its unique location, surrounded by the Pacific on just about every side on a thin stretch of the North Island. This harbour city ranks with the best of them and its districts weave their way around a variety of bays ideal for swimming, water sports and particularly yachting - hence the nickname, 'City of Sails'.