Overview of Auckland

We have stayed in a quaint hotel that is super energy efficient. To turn on the electricity, the hotel key must be put in a slot.

The first thing we learned was not to walk on green or you risk the chance of getting run over.

Our first day was spent in Devonport, a unique town across the harbor from Auckland. Many of New Zealand's famous writers live there.

That evening we went to the top of Sky Tower. The city is gorgeous at night! Both Paula and I felt queasy during and after our elevator ride to the top. I guess we would never make astronauts! The tower is the largest building in the Southern hemisphere. Inside the tower is a miniature Las Vegas with shows and gambling.

It felt strange spending the 4th of July 1/2 around the world.

This city does not sleep! The bars do not shut down until 5 AM. No, we didn't stay at a bar until closing time.


This is an international city, and one that also reminds us of home. Burger King, Wendy's, MacDonald's, and Starbucks are every where. Internet cafes and coffee houses are found on most streets. In fact, I'm writing this at an Internet cafe across the street from the hotel!

A highlight of our visit was a trip to the museum where native Maori sang, danced, and chanted. It was like a step back into time.

General information: New sayings- "no worries," "take away," and "anti-clockwise."

There are no beggars or homeless on the street. Cafes do not offer French fries or potato chips.

Tomorrow we leave at 2:50 AM to catch a 5:50 AM flight to Sydney. We have a 7 hour layover there and then on to Hobart!