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. 


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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.

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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

One of Auckland's hippest strips packed with funky fashion stores, chic cafes, bars and restaurants.

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

Auckland’s oldest suburb Parnell oozes charm and character with its Victorian buildings, gardens, galleries and restaurants.

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

Mission Bay

Mission Bay is a vibrant beachfront promenade with an exciting range of eateries and activities.

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

Mount Eden

It’s a must to take in the panoramic 360-degree views from the top of Mount Eden, which is also known in Māori as Maungawhau.

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

Great Barrier Island - Aotea

This remote, tranquil and untouched paradise at the edge of the Hauraki Gulf is waiting just for you.

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

Rangitoto & Motutapu Islands

Visit icons of the Auckland landscape and favourite destinations for hikers and day-trippers.

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

Tiritiri Matangi Island

Tiritiri Matangi is an open wildlife sanctuary and one of New Zealand’s most successful conservation projects. 

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

Devonport

Devonport is a charming seaside village a few minutes' ferry ride across the Waitemata harbour from downtown Auckland.

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

Puhoi

This small community gives visitors a taste of village life in rural Auckland and is worth taking some time to explore.

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

Kumeu

The countryside of Kumeu is a refreshing blend of green farmland, orchards and vineyards.

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

Waitakere Ranges

Explore the black sand beaches, dramatic landscapes, magical waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife in the Waitakere Ranges.

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

Howick

Howick is a surburb well-known for its charming specialty shops and pavement cafés. Discover the stories of its colourful past.

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

Clevedon

Clevedon is home to fresh food and beautiful wines, a piece of history and a whole lot of country charm.

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

Manukau

Manukau is a bustling cosmopolitan centre, home to the biggest Polynesian community in the world.

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

Around Auckland Airport

Auckland Airport has become a destination in its own right with a number of attractions that shouldn't be missed.

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

In and around Pukekohe

Franklin is the ultimate lifestyle destination with relaxed country living in savvy city style. 

Top picks:

• Dress in your finest and head to the horseraces at Pukekohe Park
• Drive a V8 around the Pukekohe Raceway
• Scare yourself silly at Spookers haunted attraction
• Take a ride on the Glenbrook Vintage Railway Train

Awhitu Peninsula

The magnificent Awhitu Peninsula is a destination of contrasts - where the Tasman Sea pounds the black sands of the west coast and meets the tranquil eastern bays and Manukau Harbour.

Top picks:

• Horseride along the wide black-sand Karioitahi beach
• Indulge your palate with a visit to organic orchards
• Mountain bike through the Waiuku Forest and Awhitu Regional Park
• Climb to the top of the Manukau Heads Lighthouse

To be continued...