We spent our first few days in New Zealand in the CBD of Auckland (CBD = Central Business District – and, yes, we also thought it was a reference to marijuana when a local said CBD the first time) . This was a good stop for us to take care of some of life’s basics – laundry, banking, renting a car, and, most importantly, updates to our website.
There isn’t much to do in town, but all the locals we asked suggested we take the ferry over to the nearby Waiheke Island. So, that’s what we did on our last day in town.
This island is the northern most wine region in New Zealand. It also has beautiful views everywhere you look. The easiest way to get around the island is to buy a Hop on Hop off bus ticket for the day. The bus makes 15 stops with many of them at or near popular wineries.
Waiheke Island is a great day trip from Auckland. The ferry takes about 40 minutes each way. If you come here you should plan to stay for most of the day so you can enjoy the unhurried pace of the island.
We rented a car before we left Auckland. Our plan is to drive from the top of the north island all the way through New Zealand to the bottom of the southern island. Driving on the other side of the road is taking some getting used to and both of us keep reminding whoever is driving which side to drive along.
Stay tuned for more New Zealand adventures.
Well, well, well… Yes, from Sydney , Australia to Auckland, New Zealand… Wine Tasting…you now can make some comparisons with our CA wines… that is great! Maybe, you can recommend a good wine from those regions to buy here!
Then CBD…hahaha…made me laugh because I thought about the same thing!
As always, I enjoy reading your journey wherever it takes you ,
Rod and Sasha
The water there looks pretty. Like Joel, I have to touch it, too! Enjoyed your post so thanks for taking time during your busy travel schedule to write.
Loved the photos of New Zealand…. Just beautiful scenery…. Happy driving !!!
Great photos JJs!! Xx