All the way from Hongkong, I flew for 11 hours just to reach Auckland, New Zealand. Auckland is not the capital of New Zealand, but it is the largest city and most populous in the country. There are two main islands in New Zealand; the North Island and South Island. Auckland is located in the North Island; it has estimated population of 1.657 million in 2017 and the largest Polynesian or the Maori population on earth.
Upon arrival at the immigration, the officer asked me what I will do in New Zealand. I simply reply that I will go for tourism and he stamped my passport. I already booked my prepaid shuttle going to the hotel via Super Shuttle and the ticket cost is NZD 35.00 for shared ride.
Since I arrived late in the afternoon at Auckland, I decided to be on my own tour rather than joining the group tour. Every time I am travelling, I always prefer to book my hotel near the city center so that everything is accessible like restaurants, bars, tourist spots, etc.
After I check-in at the hotel, I immediately walk for around 16 minutes or 1.5km to reach the Sky Tower. Sky Tower is a telecommunication tower and observation tower located at the heart of Auckland’s CBD. It is 328 meters in height, and it is 25th tallest tower in the world. The construction started in 1994 and completed in 1997 with the cost of NZD 85 million. The Sky Deck viewing platform is on Level 60 at 220 meters; The Sky Jump, Sky Walk and The Sugar Club Restaurant is on Level 53 at 194 meters; The Orbit 360 Revolving Restaurant is on Level 52 at 190 meters; Main Observation Level is on Level 51 at 186 meters and the Sky Café is on Level 50 at 182 meters. Admission for adults cost NZD 32, for child age 6 to 14 cost NZD 13 and below is free. Online ticket is available on their website. Sky Tower is open daily during the months of May to October from 9am to 10 pm while November to April from 8:30am to 10:30pm
Next stop is Viaduct Harbour, it is 10 minutes walk from the Sky Tower. Viaduct Harbour is a former commercial harbour but turned into a vibrant community situated in and around Auckland’s waterfront. Various apartments, offices, shops, market, museum, restaurants and entertainment are available on the area. You can even book your berth at Viaduct Harbour with a total capacity of 150 berths and can accommodate vessels up to 60 meters in length.
Auckland Harbour Cruise Tour is next on my itinerary. It is 1.5-hour cruise of Auckland Harbour, perfect for those who want to escape the city life and enjoy the best view of Auckland iconic landmarks. There is live commentary while you are cruising, and they serve complimentary morning or afternoon tea before returning to Auckland Ferry Terminal. Tickets cost is NZD 50.00 and you can buy at the harbour or online.
Surprisingly, Nando’s is available in Southern Hemisphere. I enjoyed my dinner eating peri-peri chicken flame grilled with lemon and marinated herbs.
While walking back to my hotel, I am enjoying the night view of Auckland.
New Zealand was my 53rd countries and territories visited around the world. Watch out for the 3nd part of My Travel Diary Webseries.
(YOU TOO can invite us to cover your events and product presentations for FREE to be featured in our blogs @ http://jerichosplace.com, Jon & Jeri at YouTube/Jericho’s Place Channel, FREE selling, posting of products & services @ https://market.jerichosplace.com. We are ready to serve you even on a simple gathering to make your event meaningful just message us at Whatsapp no: +971-525527986. Our Bestfriend JPs and OFWs around the world, we will wait for your comments and invitation down below.)
