Showing posts with label auckland. Show all posts

Tuesday, December 04, 2012

Idyllic Devonport

Situated a short 10 minute ferry ride from Auckland across the beautiful Waitemata Harbour is the idyllic seaside village of Devonport.

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Devonport has it all - historic buildings, beautiful scenery, stunning sandy beaches, and a view of Auckland from Mount Victoria to die for.

In the 1840s Devonport was known as Flagstaff because of the flag staff hoisted on the village's highest hill.

In the 1880s much of the farmland was sub-divided and large wooden villas were built, which to date are a charming feature of this area.

On our guided tour of Devonport, it was amazing to see the amount of restoration work being carried out on these historic Victorian style buildings. Many of them have already been beautifully restored and are a pleasure to view.

The more adventurous travellers, who wish to forego the guided tour, there are multiple other ways to explore Devonport. At the ferry terminal there is the option to hire a Segway. These contraptions look awesome, even if somewhat costly.

For those travellers who are a bit more active, there is the option to hire bicycles at the ferry terminal. This option I recommend for those travellers who are very fit, because Devonport is a bit hilly, especially if you wish to explore Mount Victoria with its battery guns and ammunition tunnels.

When travellers arrive via the Devonport ferry terminal they are greeted by a horse drawn carriage, which is just perfect, especially once you've had a chance to explore this small Victorian hamlet and it all falls into place. If the guided tour had not been pre-purchased, I would have taken this option to explore this idyllic paradise.

There are also plenty of cafes and shops to satisfy the keenest food critic or the most fashion conscious.

While visiting Devonport what I loved the most were the trees. They were huge and very majestic - when you look at them they kind of take your breath away and transport you to a time when they ruled the earth! Slightly melodramatic, but very true.

http://www.bookdepository.com/?a_aid=pinkacquarius

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Hotel Pullman, Auckland - Review

The first impression as you drive up the circular driveway is of the simple brown façade. It is not an imposing structure and not the least bit impressive. The simple brown rectangle building is somewhat disappointing for a 5 star establishment.

However, once the shuttle bus pulled into the drive and the usher came running out to open the sliding door and take our luggage, a feeling of embarrassment descended. The shame of pulling in with a shuttle bus was short-lived as the bell-boy hovered around the bus to make sure all our luggage was collected.

He efficiently ushered us into the hotel lobby and deposited our luggage with care and delicacy.

I think I speak for both my son and myself, when I say the disappointment ended there. As soon as we entered the lobby our jaws practically hit the floor and both of us gaped open-mouthed at the shiny polished marble floors and walls. Our senses were assailed by the delicious aromas from the adjoining restaurant and the clatter of luggage of the other hotel guests checking in and out.

A group of beautiful Emirates flight attendants gave the hotel that impression of old world charm that a 5 star hotel should have. The impression that it was built for rich, opulent and classy guest. The staff however, treated all guests with the same promptness and efficiency and not once were we made to feel inferior.

During the brief waiting time we surveyed our surroundings and found the rest of the lobby spacious and welcoming with its comfortable lounge chairs and clean floor to ceiling windows, which let in the early afternoon sunlight.

At check-in time my embarrassment continued as I showed the check-in clerk my lastminute.com.au special printout. She didn't even bat an eyelid. I expected a look or a facial expression, but nothing but sincerity and professionalism.

Our awe and wonder continued as we completed the check-in process and were handed our room swipe cards. The more than efficient staff directed us to the lift which whisked us up to our 3rd floor room. I have to admit, disappointment coursed through my veins at being told that we were relegated to the 3rd floor, but I consoled myself that it was a lastminute.com.au booking and we should feel lucky that we could afford such fancy 5 star accommodation in the first place.

Once we found our room and entered, it was again a pleasant surprise. The room was small but comfortable and packed with modern conveniences one expects in a 5 star hotel. The beautiful marble bathroom housed an enormous white porcelain tub and a massage shower-head. All the essentials were present as well, including snow-white slippers and matching bathrobes. I've only ever once before stayed in a hotel with bathrobes and that was only for 1 night, because of the price. So this was special. I made sure I put the white bathrobes to good use every morning.

The rest of the room was clean and tidy and again well stocked with a mini-bar fridge, a TV, room safe and in-room WI-FI. This is very important when travelling with an 11-year-old boy!

The view was disappointing, but as we didn't intend to spend the days in our room it didn't bother us much. The hotel also housed a day spa with a fully equipped gymnasium, an indoor heated pool, several conference and function rooms, a restaurant and a well stocked bar. The hotel also offered 24 hour room-service, laundry service, valet parking and airport transfers.

Located within a 5-minute walking distance to inner city Auckland and just opposite the University of Auckland, it is extremely ideally situated to explore Auckland and its surrounding areas.

The greatest feature of this hotel, however, was its staff. They were friendly and beyond the call of duty courteous. Even though we bought our accommodation off lastminute.com.au I was always made to feel welcome in the hotel. I could not recommend this place highly enough to any prospective traveller to Auckland, New Zealand.

Hotel Pullman

http://www.bookdepository.com/?a_aid=pinkacquarius

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Day 6 - Returning home

So we're back! Are we glad to be back? No - not yet. The time away was too brief - there are a lot of things we didn't get to do while we were in New Zealand.

We didn't get to see the Auckland Museum, the Zoo, the Aquarium etc just to name a few things. I'm already mentally planning our next trip - when I don't know, but there will be a next trip as soon as the airfares are cheap.

To summarise:

The flight to Auckland on the Jetstar flight was squishy and uncomfortable but cheap - so we can't complain. We also made the 3 hour flight without any mishaps so that's a bonus. The crew was very professional and friendly. The flight was delayed, but only because some idiots couldn't tell the time!

We decided to take a shuttle bus from the airport to the hotel - cost $41NZ for the both of us. Not a bad start. The shuttle bus had a few other passangers and some were dropped off before us. I didn't mind, it allowed us to get a short tour of outer Auckland. We were third on the list to be dropped off. When we arrived at the hotel the 'concierge' greeted us at the car, took our luggage and it was very posh. I'm talking door opening luggage carrying.

The hotel - Pullman Auckland - was fantastic! We were given a room on the 3rd floor overlooking the rooftop of the function rooms below. Needless to say the view was shocking - for a 5 star hotel - but the decor and service made up for it in leaps and bounds.

Once we settled into our new surroundings we decided to explore the area. Since it was only around 4pm local time it was still day time. As soon as we stepped out the front door we came face-to-face with the University of Auckland. It's huge and looking at the architecture also very old. We made out way into the city - the steepest hill we've seen in a long time. Of course what goes down must come up - nice introduction. It was a little bit windy and overcast, but not too cold. On our travels we found the location for Europcar - the only rental car company we came across in our entire time in the city.

Then we made our way to Auckland Harbour and the Viaduct district. At this point we just walked. While at the Harbour we booked our tickets for the Rangitoto Island Discovery Tour on Monday. By this time it was around 6pm so we decided to stop at the local foodcourt and get something to eat. Andrew decided to have McDonalds and I couldn't decide so I procrastinated and then were told that
they were closed. We were told that we needed to leave the foodcourt because the shopping centre was closing. We evacuated and once outside noticed that the sign said open til 8pm - go figure!

So my son ate his dinner just outside and we re-located to another McDonald's store across the road.

We found that the people were all so friendly and nice. My son was extremely surprised that everyone we came across could be that nice. Says a lot about where we live, doesn't it?

The next day we wasted half our day by sleeping in - the 3 hr time difference messed us up a bit. Around lunch time we went out to explore further and on a whim decided to visit Devonport. It was a wise decision and we were both thoroughly impressed with this beautiful little village.

Day 3 heralded the first early morning excursion to Rangitoto. I'm not going to repeat my experience here - please see previous blog for further detail. All I'm going to say again is that it was definitely worth the $90 price tag.

Following Rangitoto we explored the city some more and found our way up the Sky Tower. My son is not very fond of heights but I gave him a choice - wait for me downstairs in the coffee shop or come with me. He chose to come and I have to admit, he did not regret it.

On the 4th day we hired the car from Europcar and made our way out to the Waitomo Caves. See entry for Day 4. The scenery was awesome, but unfortunately we did not stop to take any photos. Maybe on the next trip if we have more time.

On the 5th day we set out again, but this time towards Rotorua. I was very disappointed because we didn't have more time in Rotorua, we didn't even get to see the Hobbit's village. Next time.

On every return to the hotel, we were greeted by the concierge, our car parked for us. Very polite and professional. We tried room service twice. The first time I ordered the pizza it wasn't too bad - actually it was quite nice. My son had the kids ham and cheese toasted sandwich. This came with chips - it looked like a sufficient meal for an 11 year old. The next time we ordered room service we decided to go a bit more fancy. I ordered the fish and chips and my son had the club sandwich. I tried the club, but wasn't that impressed with it. I found it too dry - there was no sauce on there whatsoever. The fish and chips was nice and sufficient. To really splurge out I also ordered a Kahlua and chocolate mousse. That was worth every cent of the $17 it cost. It also came with ice-cream, beautiful.

After our hectic schedule on Wednesday my back was aching and I decided to give the on-site gym. The machines were the latest in technology and a pleasure to use. Beside the gym was the 25 metre heated indoor pool. We didn't get a chance to use this, but hopefully the next time we go we'll have more time to sightsee and relax.

http://www.bookdepository.com/?a_aid=pinkacquarius

Day 5 - Rotorua

On day 5 we travelled down to Rotorua. It was a long drive - again mostly due to the regular toilet and food stops. I swear the cold weather did not agree with my son's bladder.

By the time we arrived in Rotorua it was almost 11am. I really wanted to see a traditional Maori village and show. Unfortunately, the one we found was a night time show only and it did not start until 6pm. There was no way we could stay for that since the drive back to Auckland would be around 3-4 hours. Instead we opted to go next door to experience the Skyline. This was as fantastic idea! Not only did we end up spending almost the rest of the afternoon here, but we basically missed out on seeing anything else in Rotorua at all.

The Skyline complex is relatively small but a stack of fun! The first order of business was making it to the top - this is done via the enclosed Gondolas. Almost as good as the ones in Cairns, but not quite. The view is spectacular! Plenty of photos.

Before our ascent we purchased the deal which included the return Gondola ride, a ride on the very scary looking Sky Swing, and 2 Luge rides. OMG - the Sky Swing was soooo scary!!! I can't believe I did it, but as usual I was blackmailed into it by my son. You see on day 2 I made him take the elevator up to the top of SkyCity. According to him he is afraid of heights - so this was a big deal for him. Since he did it for me, I had to do the Sky Swing for him. Needless to say my eyes were closed for almost the entire duration of the Swing - in hindsight its very embarrassing, but eyes closed or open I did it anyway. Tick that off my bucket list!

Oh my goodness! My heart's racing just watching this YouTube clip.

While there we also paid extra to sit through a 12 min 3D ride on Skyvue - this was fun and mild compared to the above!

To settle my nerves after the Sky Swing we went on the Luge. As we were first timers we took the scenic route. It was great! So much fun. For our next ride we decided to get a bit more adventurous and took the Intermediate course. This was even more fun. My son then decided that he also wanted to do the Advance course and since we were on holidays I let him. An additional 2 rides cost me $17 but it was worth it. I wasn't as adventurous as him and I decided to do the Scenic course again while he took the Advance course.

I forgot to mention that after each course, we had to catch the open chairlift back up to the top. Not so much fun, when you're afraid of heights, but we did it anyway. It was tame compared to the Sky Swing.

Here is another one for the Sky Swing just in case you're not convinced. Like I said my eyes were closed all the way up and all the way down, but now I regret that. I was worried about losing my glasses, but that's no excuse. I'll probably never do this again, so now I wish I had just watched because the experience was fantastic and very short and I SURVIVED!

http://www.bookdepository.com/?a_aid=pinkacquarius

Day 4 - Waitomo Caves

On Tuesday, 13 November 2012, we hired a car from Europcar Auckland and drove down to the Waitomo Caves. The drive took around 3 hours, but only because we had to make multiple toilet stops and of course food stops.

By the time we arrived at the caves it was around 12.20pm, just in time for the first tour of the Waitomo Gloworm Caves. I have to be honest and say that this cave was ok, but nothing spectacular. The cave was small and the entire tour took only around 45mins and that included a very average boat ride - where the guide circleisd around a tiny lake a few times and then headed off to the shore.

The package we took also included a tour of Ruakuri. This tour on the other hand was AWESOME!!! The spectacular cicular entrance way was just that - SPECTACULAR!

Unfortunately, by the time we made it back to Auckland it was too late to see any of the other attractions on the wishlist.

http://www.bookdepository.com/?a_aid=pinkacquarius

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Day 1

First Day in Auckland.

The Jetstar flight over was smooth and thankfully uneventful. 2 douchbags delayed the plane by around 15mins. I don't understand how you can be late for your flight? - don't you book it in advance and know exactly what time you should be at the airport. The instructions clearly say be there at least 90 mins prior to your flight and be waiting to board at least 30 mins.

Luckily for these idiots, the weather was soooo good that we still made it to Auckland on time.

Touchdown was great - the airport felt almost deserted. Such a difference to the Gold Coast airport where it was difficult just to get around the hordes of passangers waiting to board their various flights. Auckland was relaxed and it was amazingly quick getting through customs. :-( We didn't get a stamp in our passports - so upset! The lady at the customs counter ushered us through to the BioHazard counter because the other area was much busier. The young guy at the counter checked out passports, handed them back and just told us to exit. Didn't even open our bags. Good for us, I guess - it was a quick and painless.

Once out of customs it was easy to approach the first information booth and book on to a shuttle bus directly to the hotel. $41 later and we're on the bus and winding our way through outer Auckland. Unfortunately, Andy and I couldn't sit together because the bus was already fully booked; however I did get to sit up the front and get a birdseye view of the scenery. At Mission Beach the bus off-loaded its first passangers and I made my way to the back of the bus to sit with Andy.

Around another 20 mins later and we're the ones getting dropped off at our Hotel - the Pullman Auckland. Not an impressive building from the outside a skinny, dark brown building looking almost like an Eastern European tenement block. However, once we disembarked from the bus, the usher raced over to get our luggage and show us into the Hotel Lobby. The Hotel was very busy because they were hosting the Netball Champion players as well, some conferences and a wedding reception was also in progress when we arrived. Once we were served the receptionist, I'm not sure what hotel receptionists are called property, was very professional and friendly; however I did feel a bit out of my depth, because the place is very swanky.

Once in our room - I no longer felt out of depth. The room was your standard small twin bed set up. Equipped with all the necessaries, including a bathtub! The hotel even provides 24 hours of free Wi-Fi, which I'm hoping we don't go over. I'll try and post here everyday, but unfortunately it will depend on internet access. Also, when we get back home I'll update each post with photos. I'll have lots of photos. It was very disappointing looking out the window of our 3rd floor room - the view is horrible. It overlooks the roof of the lower level conference rooms and obviously at some point hotel guests had thrown rubbish onto the roof and it's littered with it. We've shut the curtains for now - it makes the room more palatable. I've consoled myself with the knowledge that we don't intend to spend a lot of time in the room, which we haven't so far. As soon as we booked in, set up we ventured out and explored.

We decided to get some suppplies and found a shopping complex close by. The sign out the front said open til 8pm 7 days per week. Unfortunately, they forgot to tell the shops and the staff, because promptly at 6pm we were told that the shops were closing and we had to leave! What the?

Picture to follow as soon as I have proper internet connection.

Good night!

http://www.bookdepository.com/?a_aid=pinkacquarius

Thursday, November 01, 2012

Your next flight is to Auckland and departs in..... 8 Days 11 Hours 8 Minutes

So Halloween is over what did everyone end up doing?

I raced out and bought around $30.00 worth of candy and nobody even came to our door...so I'm now stuck with all this candy. I'm trying to make my son take it to school to give it away!

I've been sitting around trying to think of information topics I could post here, but November is a very quiet month in Australia. The only event I could think of was the Melbourne Cup horse races.

I'm not a gambler and I definitely do not follow the horse racing scene. Is anyone interested in hearing about horse racing?

I don't know, I'm undecided!

I could something relating to the races, such as fashions?

I'll sleep on that. I don't even know when the races are on. I could put information on here about different horse racing related events throughout Australia, eg fashion shows, concerts, festivals etc.... Like I said I'll think about it!

I'm a little bit disappointed with myself because I missed out on writing a blog about Zombie related games. However, I have decided that following my exam on Monday, I will write up some information about Zombie games, especially since Black Ops II is about to be launched on 13 November 2012. My son is very excited about the special Zombie nuketown map - he can't wait. However, at the moment he is not overly excited about going to New Zealand because we'll be in New Zealand when the game becomes available. Them's the breaks!

I'm gonna have a sleep on what topic to post here next, but I now have to go because I've got an online test to start. Last 1 for this subject! Wish me luck!!!!!

Monday, October 22, 2012

More New Zealand!

Activities

Jet Boating

Our Auckland jet boat tours offer a very different experience of the beautiful Waitemata harbour with a second to none opportunity to view of the Auckland City Skyline, Auckland Harbour Bridge, our Hauraki Gulf Volcanoes and of course Auckland's famous Sky Tower.

Aboard the fastest jet boats in Auckland, Auckland Adventure Jet provides the original jet boat tours on Auckland's harbour. Powered by twin supercharged 300HP engines the New Zealand jet boat has incredible acceleration, speed and manoeuvrability.

Departing from Pier 3 on the Auckland Waterfront each 35 – 40 minute trip promises a unique Auckland adventure with excitement to raise your pulse.

The team at Auckland Adventure Jet are a mixture of passion and experience. Staff undergo significant training to provide an exciting and safe experience that's world class.

$ 98.00 per person

Auckland Zoo is home to the largest collection of native and exotic animals in New Zealand, set in 17 hectares of lush parkland and just five minutes from central Auckland.

There is lots to see and do all year, including events, animal encounters, Zoom (behind the scenes) tours and more!

Our Zoom (behind-the-scenes) Tours offer you an exclusive backstage pass to go behind the scenes. Imagine helping a keeper wash down an elephant, coming eye to eye with New Zealand fauna, a tiger, or one of Africa’s big five.

Price Range & Conditions

Child	$10
Adult	$25

Other Charges	Infants (under 4): Free. Senior citizens (65 years+) and students (ID required): $20.

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is New Zealand’s most inspiring visual arts experience. Visit us and discover the world’s largest permanent collection of New Zealand art right in the heart of Auckland city.

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is New Zealand’s most inspiring visual arts experience.

Visit us and discover the world’s largest permanent collection of New Zealand art right in the heart of Auckland city. Enter between majestic kauri columns to explore four floors of exhibitions, five centuries of art and one of Auckland’s most iconic buildings.

Entry is free and we’re open from 10am until 5pm every day, except Christmas Day.

The worlds most extensive Maori and Pacific Island Collection located within one of New Zealand’s most iconic and outstanding heritage buildings.

Nau Mai Haere Mai - Welcome to Auckland Museum, where exciting stories of New Zealand people, the Pacific, flora, fauna and landforms of our unique islands, are told within a memorial dedicated to those who have sacrificed their lives for our country.

In one of New Zealand’s most outstanding historical buildings, boldly situated in the Domain - a central city pleasure garden - you encounter exhibitions that will excite you with the artisitc legacy and cultures of the Pacific people. See the monumental carvings, buildings, canoes and taonga (treasures) of the Maori.

The diversity of cultures which now combine to form the rich tapestry of race, nationality and creed which is modern New Zealand.

$ 10.00

We offer a safe leisurely kayak adventure on the Puhoi River which meanders 8kms

from the Historic Bohemian Village to the scenic Wenderholm Regional Park.

We supply superior kayaks, buoyancy vests, paddling instruction, local river knowledge and a courtesy coach return.

We have kayaks or canoes to suit the whole family and cater to almost all ages (sorry no infants under 3yrs) and fitness levels from corporate groups, Christmas picnics, families, individuals, couples, grandparents, team building to just a group of friends out for a day of fun.

We are a small family business and are descendants of the original Bohemian settlers of the Puhoi Valley. We are a NZ Qualmark endorsed Visitor Activity, have resource consent and are Auckland Council Regional Park Concessionaires.

You will find us in the Puhoi Historic Village opposite the Church of Saints Peter and Paul.

Experience the best of natural New Zealand, sheep farming and wool production within one hours drive from Auckland. Good fun for all ages, rain or shine and a suitable venue for incentive groups.

Experience the best of New Zealand’s rural life, sheep farming and wool production within one hours drive from Auckland. SheepWorld is set in a unique natural environment, where you can watch the world-famous sheep and dog shows daily at 11am and 2pm. Watch the experts at work - then have a go yourself in our newly set up Interactive Zone.

Enjoy our farmyard and feed the animals, or explore the unique Eco-Discovery Trail.

Browse around in our spacious and refurbished Ecowool® store, only selling quality New Zealand-made products, woollen clothing and a wide variety of beautiful sheepskins.

You can relax at our on-site Sheepworld Café that serves a tempting range of beautiful meals and drinks.

Open daily from 9am-5pm

Look what I found!

Pinky - how cute!

To be continued...

Travel update!

This is soooo exciting!

Next upcoming trip

Your next flight is to Auckland and departs in.....

18 Days
18 Hours
59 Minutes

Gold Coast to Auckland (Return)

In the meantime I have to get through going back to work, a final test and an end of semester exam at Uni.

Wish me luck!

I'm not sure if I've posted this before but this is the hotel we're staying at:

Hotel Pullman - Auckland

Excellent location and very close to Auckland Harbour.

Some of the tourist attractions we would like to visit include:

In and around Queen Street

Browse artisan shops and eateries at Elliott Stables
Watch a live performance at THE EDGE
Catch a gig at The Classic Comedy Club
Take in the spectacular views from the Sky Tower

Britomart Precinct

Eat and drink in the hippest new bars and restaurants
Pick-up seasonal goodies at the City Farmers’ Market
Shop at Britomart’s treasure trove of fashion, homeware and specialty stores
Visit the unique Britomart Project Space to see a visual work of art

Viaduct Harbour

Sit back and enjoy the view from one of the popular waterside restaurants
Learn about New Zealand’s rich maritime history at Voyager Martime Museum
Step aboard one of the boat cruises that departs from the Viaduct

Wynyard Quarter

Visit Auckland Fish Market for a wide range of fresh seafood
Dine at one of the North Wharf restaurants for the freshest waterside dining in town
Take the kids to play in the maritime themed playspace
Climb aboard Auckland Dockline Trams and take a ride around Wynyard Loop

Ponsonby

Top picks:

Shop at designer fashion stores
Dine at some of Auckland’s best cafes and restaurants
Listen to live music in trendy neighbourhood bars
Follow heritage walks through Ponsonby’s historic streets

Parnell Museum

Top picks:

Unravel the history of Aotearoa at Auckland Museum
Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral
Browse boutique shops, galleries and eateries
Admire the blooms in Parnell Rose Gardens

Top picks:

Munch on fresh fish and chips on Mission Bay beach
Rollerblade along Tamaki Drive
Soak-up impressive views from Michael Savage Memorial
See Sub-Antarctic penguins, stingrays and sharks at the underwater world

Top picks:

Climb to the top of Mount Eden
Check-out the views from Auckland’s highest natural point
Wander through an award-winning garden
Catch a live gig at the Powerstation

Top picks:

Arm yourself with your beach towel and a book and head to Medlands Beach
Pull on your togs and walking shoes for the Kaitoke Hot Springs walk
Get up early and race to the eastern beaches for a spectacular sunrise
Book a fishing charter and head for the Broken Islands

Top picks:

Walk to the summit of Rangitoto – don’t forget your camera!
Take a torch and explore the WW2 bunkers and gun emplacements
Enjoy the beaches and walking trails of Motutapu
Check-out the world’s largest pohutukawa forest

Top picks:

Join a guided walk to learn how to spot native birds and trees
Take a sneaky peak in the penguin nesting boxes
Check-out the visitor centre. It’s the best place to find out about the island

Top picks:

Head to Mount Victoria and North Head for spectacular views of Auckland City and the Waitemata Harbour
Explore Devonport’s military history at North Head and the Torpedo Bay Navy Museum
Take a self-guided walking tour or see the sights by segway, bike or mini-bus
Treat your tastebuds at the cafes, bakeries and the village’s famous chocolatiers

Top picks:

Taste locally made Puhoi Valley Cheeses
Meander down the scenic Puhoi River in a kayak
Grab a hearty meal and a cheeky drink at the local pub
Follow the historical walk which travels through the museum and library

Top picks:

Visit several Kumeu wineries including Auckland’s oldest winery
Get your paws on a sweet experience at BeesOnline Honey Centre and Café
Kick back with a freshly brewed beer at a boutique brewery

Top picks:

Stop in at Arataki Visitor Centre and pick up a track map
Experience walks and waterfalls including Kitekite Falls and Fairy Falls
Tramp the stunning Hillary Trail
Spend the night in the peaceful camping grounds

Top picks:

Delve into a tucked-away café in charming Howick Village
Play 18-holes at Howick Golf Club and savour the views across the Hauraki Gulf
Enjoy a walk over the beautiful Musick Point peninsula
Explore the archeological sites and wetlands at Mangemangeroa Reserve

Top picks:

Watch top polo games most weekends in the spring and summer
Fill a picnic hamper with supplies from the Sunday Clevedon Farmers’ Market
Take a step back in time at the McNicol Homestead Museum
Sample world-famous Clevedon Oysters

Top picks:

Search for gifts at the Otara market on Saturday morning
Take a roller coaster ride at New Zealand’s greatest family theme park
See over 10,000 plants at the Auckland Botanic Gardens

Top picks:

Sip delicious wines at New Zealand’s most awarded winery
Play a round of mini-golf at Treasure Island
See saltwater crocs, free-flying tropical butterflies and swing from highropes