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
Showing posts with label tourists attractions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tourists attractions. Show all posts
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Monday, October 22, 2012
More New Zealand!
Activities
Jet Boating
Adventure Jet Boat Ride
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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. |
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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!
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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...
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