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Christmas day was spent on the viaduct spotting super yachts. The Beast is owned by the jeweler, Michael Hill and can now be chartered per week around the $225,000 a week budget.
Winner at the World Superyacht Awards 2020.
All the extra gear on this yacht reminds me of my backpack. LOL
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
Hobbiton™ Movie Set is a tourist attraction in Matamata, New Zealand, offering guided tours of the original set from "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" films. Visitors can explore the 44 hobbit houses, including the iconic home of Bilbo Baggins, and enjoy a drink at The Green Dragon Inn. Tours last approximately two hours, and booking in advance is recommended due to the site's popularity. The experience provides a unique immersion into Tolkien's world, attracting fans and tourists from around the globe.
Wellington, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
State Highway 1 (SH 1) is the longest and most significant road in the New Zealand road network, running the length of both main islands. It appears on road maps as SH 1 and on road signs as a white number 1 on a red shield, but it has the official designations SH 1N in the North Island, SH 1S in the South Island.
SH 1 is 2,006 kilometres (1,246 mi) long, 1,074 km (667 mi) in the North Island and 932 km (579 mi) in the South Island. Since 2010 new roads have reduced the length from 2,033 km (1,263 mi). For the majority of its length it is a two-lane single carriageway, with at-grade intersections and property accesses, in both rural and urban areas. These sections have some passing lanes. Around 315 km (196 mi) of SH 1 is of motorway or expressway standard as of August 2022: 281 km (175 mi) in the North Island and 34 km (21 mi) in the South Island.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
Waiheke Island is located about 35 minutes by ferry from Auckland, New Zealand. It's famous for its award-winning vineyards, white-sand beaches, and stunning scenery. With a mild, Mediterranean-like climate, it's perfect for romantic getaways and food and wine tourism. The island features numerous wineries, art galleries, local markets, and outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking. Oneroa is the main village, offering shops, cafés, and a charming beach. Waiheke is also known for its artistic and alternative community. Local buses and bike rentals make it easy to explore. It’s a peaceful yet vibrant destination, loved by both locals and tourists. A natural gem just off Auckland’s coast.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
Waiheke Island is a beautiful island in the Hauraki Gulf, near Auckland, New Zealand. Known for its white sandy beaches, vineyards, and natural landscapes, it is a popular destination for tourism and relaxation. Its vineyards produce high-quality wines, with wineries offering tastings and fine dining experiences. The island is also famous for its scenic trails, perfect for hiking and cycling. It is accessible by ferry from Auckland in about 40 minutes. Oneroa and Onetangi are two of its most visited beaches. Additionally, the island has a vibrant artistic community with galleries and cultural events. Its crystal-clear waters are ideal for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. Waiheke blends nature, adventure, and luxury, attracting visitors from around the world.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
Waiheke Island, just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, New Zealand, is a paradise of golden beaches, vineyards, and stunning landscapes. Renowned for its high-quality wine production, the island hosts numerous wineries offering tastings. Its mild climate and vibrant arts community make it a cultural and culinary hotspot. Outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and water sports add to its appeal. Waiheke blends luxury and nature, featuring boutique accommodations and eco-friendly options. It is the perfect retreat for relaxation away from the city's hustle and bustle.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
Auckland's Downtown Terminal is a major transport hub located in the city center, right by the waterfront. It connects ferry services to destinations like Waiheke Island, Devonport, and other spots around the harbor. It's a key part of the public transport system, integrated with buses and train links. The historic Ferry Building, built in 1912, is an architectural and heritage landmark. The area has been recently upgraded to enhance passenger experience. Surrounding the terminal are cafés, restaurants, and stunning harbor views. It’s also the departure point for tourist cruises and sea excursions. Its central location allows easy walking access to Queen Street and commercial areas. A modern and functional gateway to the city of Auckland.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
Downtown Terminal in Auckland, New Zealand, is the city's main maritime transport hub. Located in the heart of the financial district, it connects ferries to destinations like Waiheke Island, Devonport, and other regional areas. Its modern infrastructure provides ticketing services, waiting areas, and dining options for tourists and locals. It is a key point for exploring the city and its surroundings, with easy connections to buses and trains. Additionally, its proximity to Auckland Waterfront makes it a lively and busy area.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
The Cathedral of St. Patrick & St. Joseph in Auckland, New Zealand, is the city's main Catholic church. Built in 1848 and renovated multiple times, it blends neo-Gothic architecture with modern elements. It serves as the seat of the Bishop of Auckland and is a key center of faith and culture. The interior features beautiful stained-glass windows, an impressive organ, and a solemn atmosphere. Over the years, it has witnessed historic events and papal visits. Located in the heart of the city, it remains a landmark for both worshippers and visitors.
Couldn't help but think of Lenny Kravitz "Fly Away" song when this seagull took off toward Auckland City, now the tune is stuck in my head.
Fly away song www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAeYTC_uY54
Please note this photo is not available through Getty License request
First excursion in Auckland was a ferry ride to Devonport on the north shore of Waitemata Harbour.
The Edwardian Baroque ferry building is an Auckland landmark and recognised by Heritage New Zealand as a Category 1 historic place.
The ferry terminal is composed of two elements, this yellow building and the newer wharves and waiting area building (left side of this photo).
The Ferry Terminal was constructed over two and a half years and completed in 1912.
The building was designed by Alex Wiseman, and erected by Philcox and Sons. It's constructed of Pyrmont sandstone and brick with a base of Coromandel granite
The ferry building today houses restaurants shops and offices.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
The Downtown Terminal in Auckland, New Zealand, is a major transportation hub located in the heart of the city. Connecting various modes of transport, it serves as a vital axis for both residents and tourists. Situated on the waterfront, it offers spectacular views of the harbor and the surrounding islands. The main services include ferry routes to the Hauraki Gulf islands, such as Waiheke and Rangitoto, as well as connections to Devonport. It is also a departure point for buses heading to different parts of the city and the airport. Its modern design and central location make it a key meeting point. In addition to being a transport center, the terminal is surrounded by restaurants and shops, making it a vibrant area. It's the connection point between Auckland's urban life and the natural beauty of the region.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours is an iconic attraction in New Zealand, located in Matamata, where scenes from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were filmed. This movie set recreates the village of Hobbiton with its iconic hobbit houses, scenic pathways, and the famous Green Dragon Inn. Visitors can explore the site with guided tours that share behind-the-scenes stories and filming details. It is a popular destination for Tolkien and film fans. The lush green landscape and rolling hills create a magical and immersive experience. Guests can also enjoy themed drinks at the inn. Various tour options are available, including evening tours with special dinners. The site’s authenticity and charm make it a must-visit in New Zealand.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
Karanga Plaza, located in Auckland's Wynyard Quarter, is a prominent public space on the city's waterfront. Conceived as a place of welcome ("Karanga" means "welcome" in Māori), the plaza serves as an arrival and departure point between the Central Business District (CBD) and Wynyard Quarter, as well as being a significant destination for events and recreational activities.
The design of Karanga Plaza incorporates movable timber platforms that can be adapted for various activities, from lounging areas to spaces for events and performances. These platforms recall the site's historical use as a boat maintenance area and the memory of vessels being moved between land and sea.
A notable feature of the plaza is the recently inaugurated outdoor saltwater pool, offering visitors the opportunity to swim in an urban setting. The pool is equipped with 33-meter-long lanes, access ladders, a jumping platform, and changing facilities.
However, just days after its opening, the Safeswim program declared the pool unsafe for swimming due to elevated levels of faecal bacteria, leading to its temporary closure. This incident has sparked criticism and debates about the safety and viability of the pool in that location.
Despite these challenges, Karanga Plaza remains a vibrant space that reflects Auckland's connection to its maritime environment and its commitment to creating versatile and welcoming public spaces.
Auckland Grafton Bridge over Symonds Cemetery & Grafton Gully.
Grafton Bridge is a reinforced concrete bridge opened in 1910.
The bridge divides Auckland City and Karangahape road from the suburb of Grafton and the Auckland Domain.
When opened it was the largest concrete arch bridge in the world.
A view of Auckland's Sky Tower seen from the plaza in front of Cathedral of St Patrick & St Joseph.
The 1997 opened 328 metre high Sky Tower supports telecommunications equipment and observation levels with restaurants and bars.
$35 NZ for a ride up, not.
The evening sun was highlighting the cloud formation over Auckland's CBD seen from Victoria Street West.
While visiting Auckland's Domain we checked out the Domain Wintergardens complex. One of two green houses was featuring different types of begonia - 1 of 2.
Auckland's Ferry Terminal Building at dusk viewed from Quay Street.
The yellow Edwardian Baroque building was designed by Alex Wiseman and erected by Philcox and Sons and opened in 1912.
The ferry building was the major departure point for people travelling to the North Shore until 1959, when the Auckland Harbour Bridge opened.
While visiting Auckland's Domain we checked out the Domain Wintergardens complex.
The gardens have two greenhouse buildings separated by a sunken pool.
The garden structures were designed by English partnership of Edwin Lutyens and Gertrude Jeckyll and opened in 1913.
Flora displays are housed in two barrel-vaulted Victorian style glass houses.
One house is heated and shows off tropical and heat-loving plants while the other displays temperate plants changing with the seasons.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
The Cloud is an iconic event pavilion located on Auckland’s waterfront at Queen’s Wharf. It was built in 2011 for the Rugby World Cup. Its modern, wave-like architecture resembles a large white cloud, giving it its name. It’s used for exhibitions, cultural events, conferences, and public gatherings. The venue offers stunning panoramic views of the harbor and city skyline. It’s just a short walk from central Auckland and the historic Ferry Building. The Cloud symbolizes Auckland’s innovation and global outlook. Its open, flexible design allows for diverse types of events. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It represents the city’s connection to culture, creativity, and the sea.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours is a tourist attraction located in Matamata, New Zealand, where parts of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were filmed. The set faithfully recreates the village of Hobbiton, featuring Bilbo’s house, the Green Dragon Inn, and over 40 hobbit holes. Visitors can join guided tours that share behind-the-scenes stories and filming trivia. The lush, rolling landscape feels straight out of a fairytale. Fans can take photos, explore gardens, and enjoy a handcrafted beer at the pub. Tours include transport from the visitor center. It’s a magical, immersive experience for movie lovers and nature fans alike. Night tours and themed dinners are also available. It’s one of New Zealand’s most iconic travel destinations.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
The Strand Arcade is a historic shopping arcade located on Queen Street, in the heart of Auckland's central business district, New Zealand. Opened in 1910, it is one of the city's oldest arcades and stands out for its Edwardian architecture, which has remained largely unchanged since its construction. Commissioned by Sir Arthur M. Myers in 1899, the building was rebuilt in 1910 after a fire, becoming a prominent example of the architecture of that era.
The arcade houses a variety of boutique shops on the main floor and an expansive Asian-inspired food court on the lower level.
Additionally, the Strand Arcade has witnessed numerous significant events over the years, from Christmas parades to concerts by renowned artists, reflecting its importance in Auckland's cultural life.
Recently, the arcade has undergone revitalization with the addition of new shops and dining spaces, attracting both locals and tourists seeking a unique shopping experience in a historic setting.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
Shed 10 is the only original building remaining on Auckland's Queens Wharf, built in 1910 as a cargo storage facility. This heritage-listed building was thoughtfully restored in 2012 to serve as the city's primary cruise ship terminal and a premium event space. The ground floor retains its industrial character with concrete flooring, steel columns, and exposed beams, while the upper floor features timber flooring, exposed steel trusses, and a gable ceiling with skylights. Additionally, Shed 10 has a 60 kW solar panel system installed on its roof, contributing to the building's sustainability. With a total area of 4,400 m² over two levels, Shed 10 offers stunning views of the Waitematā Harbour and stands as a prime example of blending historical heritage with modern functionality.
Explore 05 May, 2023
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After a 14 hour flight from Vancouver we used Auckland's excellent public transit from the airport to the city centre Britomart station transit hub.
Its name was taken from a Royal Navy gunship, HMS Britomart, the first English vessel to carry out a detailed survey of the Waitematā Harbour in 1841.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
St Paul's Church, located on Symonds Street, is one of the most historic and significant Anglican churches in Auckland, New Zealand. Known as the "Mother Church" of the city, it was founded in 1841, making it the oldest church community. The current building is the third to be occupied by the parish, notable for its Gothic Revival style architecture. Its foundation stone was laid by Governor William Hobson. The church has been a pillar in Auckland's life since its beginnings, serving as the city's first cathedral for over 40 years. In addition to its historical and religious importance, the church houses memorials from the New Zealand Wars and World War I. Its central location places it near the University of Auckland, making it a cultural and spiritual landmark.
Auckland, NOVA ZELANDA 2023
The Auckland skyline is a distinctive and recognizable urban profile, dominated by the iconic Sky Tower.
This modern and compact silhouette rises above the Waitematā Harbour, offering stunning views from the water and surrounding hills.
The Sky Tower, at 328 meters tall, is not only the highest point in Auckland but also in New Zealand and the Southern Hemisphere.
Alongside the Sky Tower, the skyline features a mix of commercial and residential skyscrapers, reflecting the city's dynamism.
From key vantage points like Mount Eden or the Auckland Harbour Bridge, the panoramic view is spectacular, especially at sunset or with the city lights.
The presence of the harbor and numerous boats often complements the skyline image, reinforcing Auckland's maritime identity.
The architectural design of the buildings varies, but many feature glass facades that reflect the sky and sea.
The skyline serves as a constant backdrop for major events, fireworks displays, and festivals held in the city.
It symbolizes Auckland's status as New Zealand's largest and most economically active city.
The continuous evolution of the skyline, with new developments and constructions, demonstrates the ongoing growth and modernization of the "City of Sails."
The east section of Aucklands Symonds Street Cemetery Is looking neglected but it is a quiet enclave with good walking trail.
The east side of Symonds Street Cemetery was the Anglican and Weslyan burial grounds.
The early cemetery was segmented into four sections by religious denomination - Anglican, Catholic, Jewish, and Presbyterian with other general religious backgrounds.
In 1905 the Cemetery was closed and given to Auckland City Council as a public park.
It is estimated by Heritage New Zealand that less than a quarter of the around 10,000 graves in the cemetery have grave markers and most of them are in a state of failure.
The Ponsonby landmark old Post Office building represents one of the few surviving post office towers from the Edwardian era in New Zealand.
The building, at the corner of College Hill Rd and St Mary's Bay Rd, was designed by the Government architect, John Campbell, and constructed in 1912 in an Edwardian baroque style.
Half the cost of the clock and tower was paid for by donations from Ponsonby residents who decided a clock would be better than the original dome and cupola above the entrance.
The clock and the tower are listed as a publicly-owned timepiece in the building's heritage covenant and the clock, rewound once a week, is maintained by the Auckland City Council.
New Zealand Post sold the building in 1992 to Christchurch-based Portmain Properties.
In 2020 the building opened as Hotel Ponsonby, a new gastropub.