Saturday, February 10, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Auckland, New Zealand

Where in the World Are We?

In Auckland, New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
A MULTI-CULTURAL HUB OF FOOD & WINE, MUSIC, ART AND CULTURE

Known as the ‘City of Sails’ its two harbours will tempt you with waterfront walks and the chance to breathe fresh sea air deep into your lungs while absorbing spectacular views of Auckland’s grand harbour bridge’s span. Take in the true scale of Auckland’s magnificent cityscape by ascending 192 metres to the Sky Tower and looking out over the city’s gleaming silver towers which reflect on the abundant waters below.

Views over the bay and adjacent islands await and you can share elegant cocktails at this dizzying height above the mingling yachts of Viaduct Harbour. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the area at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki.

Set beside tranquil fountains and handsomely landscaped flowerbeds of Albert Park the French-Renaissance building houses New Zealand’s most extensive art collection and exhibits works from Maori and Pacific artists. New Zealand is world-renowned for its captivating natural scenery and day trips across the sparkling bays to nearby islands like Waiheke Tiritiri Matangi and Rangitoto are always tempting. Discover lava caves grape-laden vineyards and flourishing wildlife in the Hauraki Gulf’s islands.

You’ll also find an exceptional 360-degree panorama over the city to the horizon beyond the heights of ancient Mount Eden. The spectacular dormant volcano rises improbably from a city suburb and also lends its name to Eden Park – the unusual translucent stadium of New Zealand’s mighty All Blacks.

WAIHEKE ISLAND
Of all Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf islands, Waiheke Island is the most popular to visit. Around 8,000 people live here year-round, and the island’s villages are home to art galleries and a thriving café culture, while the beautiful coast hosts plenty of white-sand beaches to explore and relax. Waiheke is a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches, all just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland.

SIGHTS

• Sky Tower
• Waitemata Harbour
• Auckland War
  Memorial Museum
• Mount Eden
• Tiritiri Matangi Island
• One Tree Hill

Today’s Excursion

Auckland City Walk – Discover the “City of Sails”

We explored the scenic splendour, history and sights of the ‘City of Sails’ during this panoramic excursion of Auckland on foot.

Auckland, Britomart Pavilions Park, Backstreets, Hidden Laneways, Restaurants, Bars
Our guide takes you through backstreets and hidden laneways filled with local artisan food outlets, top restaurants, and lively bars. The dining scene in Auckland is highly rated by the world’s most respected chefs, and our guide pointed out the best food outlets.

Shopping Precincts, Fine Shoppes and Boutiques, Refreshments
Auckland is also home to the best shopping in New Zealand, from leading global luxury brands to world-class local designers
and creators. Our guided walking tour took us through several gorgeous shopping precincts in the heart of the city and past some of its finest shoppes and contemporary fashion boutiques.

Waterfront, City Skyline, Harbour, Luxury Yachts, Viaduct Basin, Wynyard Quarter, Public Art

We enjoyed stunning views of the city skyline, and luxury private yachts and charter boats moored in the harbour. Next, we headed to the lesser-visited side of the central city for a visit to the Viaduct Basin and Wynyard Quarter. Auckland also boasts many of New Zealand’s leading contemporary artists and we visited their amazing works of public art.

Check out today’s Chronicle