The smaller of the two main islands, the North Island is home to New Zealand's largest city, Auckland, and New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington – both abounding in charm, history and the attractions of ultra-modern world cities. The gateway to New Zealand, Auckland is a vibrant city with a pulse that moves with fashion, the arts and its reputation as a force in sailing and watersports. Other North Island highlights include geothermal Rotorua, the Bay of Islands, Lake Taupo and many landmarks that evoke the country’s inherent Maori character.