Hello New Zealand

After nearly five months in South America we flew to New Zealand last week and started our five week trip here in Auckland.

As we are going to be moving from place to place much faster here I have decided to borrow a tactic from my friend's blog (thanks Kate) and sum up each place we visit with our three favourite things.

So here goes.

Auckland favourite activity No.1 - Waiheke Island

Waiheke island just across the harbour was a recommendation from my mum and dad and boy was it worth the trip. It isn't cheap - 35NZD - for a return ferry crossing but I would definitely recommend it to anyone who has a few days to spend in Auckland.

We arrived on a very sunny day, picnic in tow to be greeted with the pleasant surprise of an art festival. With this in mind we followed locals and tourists alike on a two hour walk along the headland to view specially commissioned and wonderfully curated sculptures along the coastline. Here are a few of our favourite exhibits.

After our cultural enterprise we headed to one of the local vineyards, Cable Bay for a wine tasting and then onto the beach for picnic and a sunbathe.

Auckland favourite activity No. 2 - Auckland Harbour

Our first, jet lagged day was spent walking around Auckland Harbour. Certainly the playground of the rich and famous this is a great place to people watch, admire the yachts (and cars in the car park) or have a drink in one of the funky bars on the waterfront.

We spent the morning wondering around, taking in the public art on display and visiting Auckland Fish Market where we picked up some freshly caught prawns for dinner.

Auckland favourite activity No.3 - Ponsonby Road

For those who want to head out for a casual drink, Ponsonby Road is the place to be. Not far from uber trendy, boho K-Road, Ponsonby is a little bit more upmarket (well a bit ponsy to be truthful) but has a laid back vibe and cool pub/bar venues.

We recommend a drink in the Tin Soldier which had really friendly staff, good selection of local beers and delicious food.

The area also has some cool boutiques and shops as well as art galleries and venues.

So there are our favourite three things to do in Auckland. Oh and I can't finish this post without flagging that Mike finally got his tattoo done (sorry Ian - he is officially a chav now!). He went to a cool little studio called 'Tattoed Heart' on K Road. I did have a smile as he clenched his teeth having it done.