Auckland's Central Business District (CBD) is the city's most densely packed area, with offices and skyscrapers that overlook the ocean, as well as a wide range of restaurants, shops and residences. This city centre is exciting but still has the down-to-earth charm of New Zealand that we all love. As the city was founded by Europeans in 1840, history and architecture buffs will have an enjoyable time here with countless historic buildings to explore. Although Auckland is quite lively and bustling, natural attractions and wonders are never far away. A network of ferries and trains connect you to less-crowded parts where you can easily explore Mother Nature's bounty.