New Zealand has always offered some of the most visually striking terrain, not only in the world but also in the virtual rendition of Microsoft Flight Simulator. Yet, reproducing the complex coastlines and distinct architecture of its largest city can be a challenge for default scenery generation.
With that in mind, Orbx has returned to the region with the release of the Landmarks Auckland City Pack, specifically designed for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 (the MSFS 2020 version was released a while back). This release appears to focus on correcting geographical inaccuracies found in the base simulator while catering to the growing number of helicopter pilots exploring the new platform.
One of the more technical aspects of this release involves the interaction between land and water. In the default simulator, water masking can sometimes be aggressive and cover shallow areas that should be visible. Orbx states that they have addressed this by exposing extensive tidal mudflats and beaches along the entire coastline.
This coverage extends from Buckland Beach in the southeast to Whenuapai airport in the northwest. By revealing these areas, which are typically submerged in the default scenery, the developer aims to provide a more accurate representation of the Waitematā Harbour’s geography during low tide conditions.
With MSFS 2024 placing a heavier emphasis on varied mission profiles, the utility of a scenery add-on is becoming just as important as its aesthetics. The Auckland City Pack includes several functional areas for helicopter operations.
Pilots can now operate out of the Mechanics Bay heliport, located just east of the container port. Additionally, the developer has included landable helipads at the ASB Bank Centre and Auckland City Hospital. For those looking for a maritime challenge, several moored vessels in the port also feature landable decks.
The “City of Sails” is, of course, defined by its specific landmarks, and Orbx has modeled the entire downtown waterfront in high detail. This area spans from the historic Ferry Building to Hobson Wharf. The developer notes that the Central Business District now features prominent skyscrapers such as The Pacifica, PwC, and Seascape towers.
Beyond the urban center, the scenery populates the surrounding terrain with recognized points of interest. The region is famous for its ancient volcanic cones, and this package adds structures such as the obelisk on One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie) and the Beacon on Mount Eden (Maungawhau).
The port area has also received an overhaul. The developer says they have placed custom models for industrial buildings, container cranes, and the Marine Rescue Center to better reflect the industrial nature of the waterfront.
To ensure the city remains convincing after sunset, custom night lighting based on real-world photography has been applied across the coverage area. Orbx also claims to have integrated animated features on both water and land to add dynamism to the environment.
Landmarks Auckland City Pack is available now from Orbx, priced at $17.39 AUD.
