We arrive in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, home to 1.6 million Kiwis. Even though there is a rail/bus network, lots of people drive into the central business district and so parking is at a premium. We eventually managed to find a space big enough for the van but OMG at what a price! Ah well. Our stroll takes us around the Wynyard Quarter, you can’t help looking at the yachts moored in this bit of the harbour and being a little envious! We stop for lunch at The Pantry https://hyattpantry.co.nz/ without realising until after that it was part of the Park Hyatt Hotel. We had the tastiest Massaman curry (apart from Don’s that is!).

Our next trip into the city was via train as we had dropped the van off for some running repairs – so much easier! We decide to have a big walk around and so start the day in Parnell at St. Mary’s in Holy Trinity https://www.holy-trinity.org.nz/copy-of-cathedral-chancel-info what a stunning building – it is made almost exclusively of Kauri wood. It began it’s life on the other side of the road and was eventually moved on rollers across the street to where it is now in 1982. From here, we walked down to the waterfront where there are two huge cruise ships waiting to leave. On up to SKY City and the SKY Tower – Auckland iconic landmark, where we have a quick visit via the hotel lobby to the casino upstairs – we even managed a win! From here we take a walk down the main shopping street where we see a huge Christmas Tree. As a Londoner, it is still strange walking around town in 28 degree heat in shorts and sleeveless top knowing that Christmas is only a couple of weeks away!

Once again we take the train down to the waterfront to catch the ferry over to Devonport. What a fab little journey – Devonport is a commuter suburb – but instead of a bus or train, you take the ferry! It is very laid back compared to the hustle and bustle of the main cbd of Auckland. There are some really lovely independent shops and restaurants here. We enjoy having a beer sitting outside and watching the world go by before having lunch on the wharf. Gelatos all round once we arrive back in Auckland.