Auckland, NZ — I’m standing on 53 volcanos, but I’m not worried, the last one erupted 600 years ago. Auckland is a city built on volcanos. It has all the qualities that make it a great city. It’s clean and green. Seventy percent of it’s energy comes from renewable sources. It’s got great public transportation, delicious food, coffee, bars and nice people. If you’ve never been to Auckland, I suggest you come soon.
About a third of New Zealand’s population lives in Auckland. It is the countries most diverse city with 177 different nationalities living there. White Europeans make up the largest group, followed by Maori and Pacific Islanders. Asians are the fastest growing group. They are expected to be 30 percent of the population by 2030.
Getting to and from Auckland International Airport to the city center is easy, just take the Sky Bus. It runs 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and is the most efficient and inexpensive way to get into town.
Whenever I visit a place that I’ve never been before I always check to see if they offer free or inexpensive walking tours. Most cities do. A walking tour is a good way to get to know a place, learn some of it’s history and culture and favorite restaurants and hangouts. Auckland Free Walking Tours offers daily tours led by knowledgeable local guides. The tours last an average of 2.5 to 3 hours and are a good introduction to the city. The tours are free, but be sure to tip your guide–they work hard.
http://aucklandfreewalkingtours.co.nz
Dining out in Auckland can be expensive. In order to save money, you can find plenty of less expensive Asian, Middle Eastern and Indian restaurants on side streets and in food courts. Also try the local farmers markets. If you love coffee as I do, there are plenty of great cafes. New Zealand makes great beer and wine. Most bars offer happy hours.
If you have the time take a day trip to Waiheke Island. It’s a 35 minute ferry ride from the city. The island reminds me of Catalina is Southern California and Bainbridge in Seattle, but with far less people and cars. If you want to explore Waiheke, you can hike, bike, kayak or zip line. Waiheke is also known for some of New Zealand’s great wineries. If you enjoy good wine, then Waiheke is a place you should visit.