AUCKLAND

We are back for a second visit to the North Island, this time to Auckland, "City of Sails".  Auckland is New Zealand's largest city and home to around 30% of the population.

There are good views from our hotel on the waterfront

and expensive looking boats in the harbour.  Reminds me of Preston Docklands (just for a moment)!

We take a trip up the dormant volcano, Mt. Eden, for a panoramic view of the city.

Later, we take a ferry over to Waiheke Island, a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches.

Decisions, decisions ... we choose Cable Bay Winery for lunch.

Next morning we take another ferry trip, this time over to Devonport,  a charming suburb with attractive buildings and an interesting mix of shops and cafes.

Auckland skyline from the ferry - Sky Tower is an observation and entertainment complex, the tallest man-made structure in New Zealand.

We are pleased to find that the clocks go back the day we leave, so we have an extra hour to spend in this lovely city.