After 12 days in RVs with our friends from home, we took a few days to re-group in Auckland. We used a good amount of the time playing catch up and planning for our remaining three weeks in New Zealand. (Note: We found free wifi with unlimited data hard to find in Auckland!) Despite the fact that we spent most of our time playing catch up, we did enjoy a few of the activities the city has to offer. Our favorite was our day trip to the Waiheke island.
Things To Do
1) Auckland Sky Tower
At 328 meters tall, on a clear day you can see for miles over Auckland in all directions. For an additional $4 NZ you can return within 24 hours and take in the view at a different time of day. The tower also offers those seeking an adrenaline rush the opportunity to take a sky walk and/or sky jump.
2) Waiheke
Located a short ferry ride from Auckland, the island of Waiheke is covered with gorgeous hidden coves and beaches. (See Fullers website for times and ticket prices.) The island is also home to some wonderful small wineries. We enjoyed the wine and food pairing, followed by lunch at the Peacock Sky Vineyard. We enjoyed it so much that we even purchased a couple of bottles for the road.
We spent our first couple hours on the island hiking. We followed the coastal route trail from the ferry port around to the north until we reached Owhanake Beach. From there we followed the road back into the cute town of Oneroa. It is easy to reach Oneroa from the ferry terminal, as it is only about at 10-15 minute walk. There are a few other potential walks around the town. However, further exploration of the island would require a car or a tour.
If you have extra time in your schedule, you might enjoy spending a night on Waiheke.
3) Shopping on Queen Street
Queen Street is full of shops. Whether you are making purchases or just window shopping, a leisure walk down Queen Street will take you through the main street of the city. The public library is located just one block off of Queen Street, at 46 Lorne, and it one place where we took advantage of free wi-fi access.
Restaurant Recommendations
Depot Eatery
We enjoyed a light dinner at the Depot, including sliders, tacos, and potato wedges. We also enjoyed a small craft of some of the “on tap” wine.
Accommodation Options
Quest On Hobson
We stayed in a serviced studio apartment located in the city. The apartment was quiet and clean. We enjoyed the small kitchen and the convenience of an in-room washer and dryer. Quest has multiple serviced apartment locations throughout the city.