Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, and built on a lava field, is a dynamic and diverse destination that offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. We did a one-day private tour with our guide, John Stephenson, who drove us around the entire city.
Auckland is known for its cultural diversity. It has the country’s greatest concentration of indigenous Māori and is the South Pacific city with the largest number of Polynesians from other islands.
Tamaki Drive along Waitemata Harbor
We started our tour on the scenic Tamaki Drive, which stretches along the Auckland waterfront. Tamaki Drive is the coastal road that follows the contours of the Waitemata Harbor and connects the central business district with the seaside suburbs. The drive is lined with palm trees, parks, and charming cafes, providing a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Waitematā Harbor and bordered by lush green hills, this a picturesque setting that is hard to rival.
Our first photo opportunity stop was at the prestigious Paratai Drive. The drive itself winds gracefully along the ridge, offering panoramic views that encompass Waitematā harbor, the Sky Tower in the central business district, and the volcanic cone of Rangitoto Island rising in the Gulf. It also turns out to be where John grew up, so part of our tour was seeing a bit of his history—an interesting technique for a tour guide!! (I guess??)
Proceeding round the bays, we come to the Michael Joseph Savage Memorial, which provides sweeping views of Auckland’s city skyline. This is a serene and historically significant site dedicated to one of the country’s most revered Prime Ministers. Savage is celebrated for his leadership during the Great Depression and for introducing significant social welfare reforms that laid the foundation for the country’s modern welfare state.
Mission Bay
We proceeded to another picturesque seaside suburb, Mission Bay. Mission Bay, which stretches along the shores of the Waitematā Harbor, and has a beautiful sandy beach, promenade, well-maintained green spaces and picnic/walking/biking trails. Auckland is known for its abundant green spaces, and boasts over 4,000 parks and reserves….wow!
Featured here is the Trevor Davis Memorial Fountain, a large fountain featuring Sicilian marble and bronze sea monsters that create an impressive water display. It was built in 1947 to honor Trevor Moss Davis, who died suddenly at the age of 45. The fountain was donated by his parents who were members of a prominent Auckland family.
St. Heliers Suburb
Next, we were on to another lovely suburb, St. Heliers, where we stopped at Achilles Point, a scenic lookout that offers breathtaking views of the Hauraki Gulf, Rangitoto Island, and the Waitematā Harbor. Achilles Point is named in honor of the HMNZS Achilles, a New Zealand naval ship that played a significant role in the Battle of the River Plate during World War II.
Time for a break!
Time for a break, so next up was Maison des Lys Pâtisserie, a boutique bakery specializing in exquisite pastries and desserts.
We had a lot of fun talking with John….he was hilarious and obviously loves introducing his city to visitors!
Cornwall Park
Cornwall Park is another sprawling urban oasis with picturesque green space that offers a serene escape from the bustling city. It was a gift to the city from Sir John Logan Campbell, often referred to as the “Father of Auckland,” who envisioned it as a place for public enjoyment and recreation.
This is haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. At its center stands One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie), a volcanic cone and historical landmark that provides panoramic views of Auckland and its surroundings. The summit is crowned with an obelisk, a memorial to the Maori people, which underscores the area’s cultural and historical significance.
It is also the site of the grave of John Logan Campbell (the ‘father of Auckland’), who requested that a memorial be built at the summit for the dispossessed Māori people..
Acacia Cottage is an historic building located within Cornwall Park. It holds significant cultural and historical importance as one of the oldest surviving colonial buildings in the city. Built in the mid-19th century, Acacia Cottage is an example of early New Zealand architecture and offers visitors a glimpse into Auckland’s past.
Takapuna Fossil Forest
The Takapuna Fossil Forest, located along the coastline, consists of basalt rock formations formed by lava flows through an ancient forest. It is believed to be New Zealand’s most well-preserved fossil forest.
Back to the Ship!
Auckland leaves a lasting impression of awe and admiration…..certainly one to be placed on our ‘favorite cities’ list! We had visited Auckland about 20 years earlier, spending our time only in the vibrant downtown area (since we had no transportation. ) We have now discovered its remarkable proximity to nature; from the black sand beaches of the west coast to the volcanic cones offering panoramic vistas, and so many parks with so much green space. Auckland seamlessly blends urban life with natural wonders…. a unique blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty.
Thank you John Stephenson!
