One Day in Auckland

On Monday, I left Maui at 9 AM and landed in New Zealand on Tuesday at 9 PM. It was a long travel day(s) but well worth it. The next morning we got straight to our first adventure: exploring the city of Auckland.

With a jam-packed city, we had lots of great places to explore. We clocked a total of 6.5 miles - or let's put it in kilometers to match all the directional devices over here - 10.5 km.

Our ONE day to explore Auckland was a success! First, we adjusted slowly to driving on the opposite side of the road as we caught some city traffic. We found a parking garage and started on foot.

1) Odettes Eatery, 67 Shortland Street

We found this cute eatery called Odettes, with spectacular food. I enjoyed an oat milk latte and a lemon raspberry crepe.

2) Sky Tower, Victoria Street West

After a delicious brunch, we took a 10-minute walk to the Sky Tower. A building taller than the Eiffel Tower, reaching 328 meters high that people also bungy jump off of. The Sky Tower is

the center of the city. We used it as our reference point as we navigated around. On

floors 51 and 60, we saw the best view of the whole city, It even helped us pick out our next stop. We got a complete 360º view of everything. We could see the boarding islands, the harbor and all its boats, the Auckland War Memorial Museum, and the cityscape. With such a spectacular view, it is well worth it.

3) Auckland War Memorial Museum, Parnell Street

With a 30-minute walk from the Sky Tower to this museum, we appreciated that it was air conditioner. Although this museum had only 3 floors, we explored every room it offered. We spent at least 3 hours here. New Zealand has so much history, and this place presents it in a creative and interactive way. So many of the Maori artifacts are very elaborate and beautiful. Not only the artifacts, but the culture of Aotearoa (New Zealand) is beautiful.

4) Auckland Waterfront, Jellicoe Street

We worked up our appetites in the museum, and now it was time to eat again. Right on the harbor, there are many eateries to try. Surrounded by excellent shops on Little Queens Street, historical buildings, and trendy restaurants, this is a great way to end the day. We stopped into Good George Brewery for a tasty beer and cider sampler. Then we popped into The Conservatory for dinner. Once again, and don't be surprised, the food was spectacular. A fleet of sailboats passed as we enjoyed the ambiance and food. We started around the Auckland Fish Market, walked across the Viaduct Basin bridge, and made our way along the water to Quay Street.

Our oysters and sailboats finished off our day. Since its summer, it was still light when were returned to our place at 8:30 pm. We're enjoying the sun and fun down under.