Auckland - Gay and Lesbian Travel Travel Guide, Auckland - Gay and Lesbian Travel Vacation & Travel Tips on Orbitz

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Introduction to Auckland - Gay and Lesbian Travel

Auckland

Photo credit:?iStockphoto.com

Built around 48 extinct volcanoes, Auckland is all about geography. It's dominated by a huge harbor, and boating is the big thing here, so it's no wonder it earned the moniker "City of Sails." The government dumped a lot of money into hosting two recent America's Cup sailing tournaments, adding world-class sophistication to this "mini-Sydney."

As for gay life, New Zealand has same-sex marriage, and Kiwis are generally blase about their gay and lesbian residents -- there's even a transsexual Member of Parliament. Auckland doesn't have a defined gay neighborhood, although the alternative yet upmarket Ponsonby Street comes close. And you know the city is gay-friendly when the main shopping drag is officially named Queen Street. The inner-city suburb of Grey Lynn is another queer-popular area commonly referred to by locals as "Gay Lynn." Local gays and lesbians also bake au naturel on the nude beach at aptly named Ladies Bay.

Other general attractions include the shops and restaurants of the Victorian-themed Parnell Village, dinner or bungee jumping (!) off the massive Auckland Tower, the 19th-century portraits of Maoris in The Auckland Gallery, or a ferry ride to Waiheke Island to explore its wineries and quiet beaches.

1. Don't miss the HERO Festival. Auckland erupts during the summer month of February, when everyone (even families) takes part in HERO events, including "Wigs on the Waterfront," gay arts exhibits, tea dances, circuit parties, films, sports events, lesbian parties, and more.

2. Don't worry about prices. The U.S. dollar is always strong against the New Zealand dollar, making Auckland a great deal for shopping.

3. Take taxis after a night out. Auckland buses stop running around 11:30 p.m. or earlier on every night except Sunday, when they stop at 8 p.m.

Auckland Gay Travel Essentials