It's 3D Hill thanks to Google

A publicity shot showing One Tree Hill from Google's 3D Auckland map.

Now would-be international travellers can fly through the City of Sails on a virtual tour.

Los Angeles, London, Paris, Rome, now Auckland. Internet search giant Google yesterday added New Zealand's biggest city to its growing list of international locations with 3D maps that allow users to experience "virtual travel" from a computer, mobile or tablet.

Google has already rolled out 3D maps for Los Angeles, Paris, New York, London, Rome, San Francisco, Avignon and Munich and yesterday launched a version for Auckland.

The new 3D map allows users to "fly through the Auckland skyline taking in the buildings, terrain and even the trees", making their virtual travels more realistic than ever.

The new maps allow users to pan, zoom and rotate to view their chosen destination from any angle.

On the new-look Auckland map users can get a better look at the Sky Tower, harbour bridge, downtown Auckland, Mt Eden and Eden Park, the Chelsea Sugar Factory on the North Shore and One Tree Hill, to name a few sights.

The experience has been described as being like travelling through a city in a low-flying plane.

Google spokesman Shane Treeves said Auckland was selected to showcase some of New Zealand's well-known sights to the rest of the world.

"It's a city with fantastic views and locations. It's a place that a lot of international travellers would like to come to," he said.

"The imagery gives them the opportunity to 'fly' through Auckland and get an idea of the city."

Mr Treeves said it was hoped other New Zealand locations would have 3D maps in the future, but there were no firm plans.

"We try to keep images as updated as we can. This allows people to see a city and 3D gives them the opportunity to see it in a more immersive and detailed view."

Around the world famous cathedrals, castles, sport stadiums, skyscrapers, museums and bridges have been captured, including the Shanghai World Financial Centre.