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
Showing posts with label cultural. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cultural. Show all posts
Thursday, November 15, 2012
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
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
Monday, October 22, 2012
More New Zealand!
Activities
Jet Boating
Adventure Jet Boat Ride
 |
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.
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.
Auckland Zoo
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
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.
Auckland Museum
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
Puhoi River Canoe Hire Limited
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.
Sheep World Warkworth
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!
Mission Bay is a vibrant beachfront promenade with an exciting range of eateries and activities.
Next upcoming trip
Your next flight is to Auckland and departs in.....
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...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)