Auckland (city)

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Largest city in New Zealand, in the north of North Island, in an area of impressive volcanic scenery; population (2001 est) city, 377,400, urban agglomeration, 1,064,700. It is the main commercial and industrial centre and one of the most rapidly growing cities of the country. It fills the isthmus that separates its two harbours (Waitemata, the site of the main deepwater port and container terminal, and Manukau), and is part of the largest conurbation in the country which includes the cities of Manukau, North Shore, and Waitakere. Industries include iron and steel plants, engineering, car assembly, textiles, clothing, fertilizers, food processing, sugar refining, and brewing. Exports include the products of pastoral farming such as dairy products, meat, and leather. Auckland was officially founded as New Zealand's capital in 1840 and remained so until 1865.

History
Auckland was founded in 1840 on the site of a small 1830s whaling settlement by Captain William Hobson, the first governor of New Zealand. From the 1970s, industrial development was aided by the supply of natural gas, delivered by pipeline from the Maui field.

Blue represents the sky. The golden sun symbolizes the country's hopes for the future. Effective date: 4 June 1992. >>