Auckland, New Zealand

I really loved walking around the city. It is always nice to learn about a location based on their city life. I find that New Zealand is much the same as the United States, there were a lot of fast food restaurants. I found McDonalds, Burger King, Wendys, Subway, and more. In other ways it also had a European feel about it.

When Torey and I went up the Sky Tower, which I believe is the highest point in the city we were overlooking the surrounding area. It was a clear day so we could see several islands, and many dormant volcanoes. In fact, Auckland is surrounded by 28 volcanoes. We decided to hike to the top of one, Mt. Eden. Most of the volcanoes are very small and we knew this would be an easy hike.


It was a lot easier then we expect and almost anyone could do this, excluding wheelchairs or possibly a double sprained ankle. I liked hiking Mt. Eden, because it was so easy. It only took Torey and I about twenty minutes to reach the top where we were impressed with the landscape. Even kids would like this hike, since they get to the top fast. I knew it was a volcano, but somehow I forgot that it would have a big crater at the top. It was breath-taking. Not only was it large in diameter, but water erosion has created a tier effect.


It has been really cold since I got to New Zealand. I know that it is winter, but I never expected it to be this cold. It is frosting at night and we are only in the North Island. I have been told it is snowing in the South Island. We tried sleeping one night without going to a campground (in NZ you can basically park on the side of the road) but it was extremely cold. Last night we were able to stay at a campground with electricity plug-in for free. It was so warm and I slept really well, so I think that is what we will have to do from now on. It might be a little more then we wanted to spend, but it is also a colder winter then NZ has had in over fifty years. I have a habit of finding locations that are cold (last year in Alaska my boss told me it was an unusually cold summer). Anyhow, while hiking to the top of Mt. Eden I was so hot I actually shed one of my coats, that’s right I was wearing too.

The view was spectacular. I liked the Sky Tower because I could see far into the distance, even into the ocean, but I enjoyed the view from Mt. Eden a little more because it felt natural. This is the way you should view the world, from the top of a high point. There is a sense of accomplishment and wonder after a hike that you just don’t get when taking an elevator. We went at the perfect time of day too. We were there for the sunset. I took a few pictures. It was getting colder as the sun was setting, but we stuck it out just to see the perfect view of the sun setting behind the bay. So even though this was only a short part of my day, it was my favorite.




* On a side note I think it is important that those traveling to Auckland should make a trip up the Sky Tower, because it is very impressive. There are two restaurants, two lookout decks, and two adventure activities to take part in. I will also include pictures from our view at the top.

We also went to one of my all time favorite restaurants, Wagamamas. When I lived in London I would frequent this ramen noodles restaurant. When I found out there was one in Auckland I knew we would have to go there as well.