Auckland

"We arrived in Auckland on Wednesday around 11am without a bit of problem.  Traffic was ok, relatively light and we drove right to our hotel on the harbor. Checked in and proceeded out to explore this city. We are once again right in the central business district, so everything is within walking distance. At the ferry terminal we bought our tickets for Waiheke Island for Thursday but we also went on a harbor cruise. Sat on top for the best views, but it was also windy and cool. Here are some views from the trip.

Afterwards we walked up to the sky tower to see if we could get reservations for dinner, which we did for that night. Here are the stats on the tower.

We had a wonderful dinner, great service, great food, great view. 

Here is a person jumping from the building on their sky jump (no way would I do that).

Today (Thursday) we took the ferry to Waiheke island. Just used their local bus system (after we sorta figured it out) and went wine tasting (which the island is known for). Took the bus to the end and had to walk from there about a mile or so, but up about 100 steps, down a road, to a dirt road.

Great views along the way.

Next winery we followed a path through the vineyards.

The next winery was a bit further through vineyards, over a mountain and through some forest, but found our way.

After 6 wineries we were done so caught the bus back to catch the ferry back to Auckland. Great day, got some good exercise, over 6 miles and many steps and steep hills. But a beautiful island.

Only a day and half left before we head back home. I can't believe it's been almost 3 weeks.