City of Sails ....Auckland

Auckland is one of our favorite cities to visit.  Also known as "City of Sails" because of all of the sail boats in its Harbors.  We witnessed many sail races while we docked there, very pretty against the backdrop of the city. Almost a million people live in this city and it is the largest city in NZ.   A fun place for those who love the water, obviously.  When we visit Auckland, I still feel like we are once again transformed back to the 50's.  We were here about 15 years ago and it still maintains its charms.  We had an overnight here so the first day we took a bit of a stroll in town and 'by chance' found a great Mexican Restaurant for lunch.  I had read some great reviews about the place and imagine my surprise when it just sprang up in front of us!. David, as you know, is ALWAYS up for a Mexican meal. :)   When you are on a ship this long, eating off the ship is always a thrill.  Even McDonald's becomes a treat.  Not that the food is BAD... just some fast food.... comfort food...back home food just seems to call to your taste buds.

Not many tours were offered in Auckland.  I think because we dock right in the heart of the city and you can do so much on your own which is great.  On the second day we went on a tour of the city.   Our bus driver was fun and kept us laughing with his comments and banter.  We drove to Mount Eden for the big city view.  Here you see for miles in all directions.  We drove through the numerous parks and went to the Museum. 

The BEST part of the tour and the part I will remember FOREVER was when we got to the top of Mount Eden.  A group of young college men just jogged up the hill and were looking for a free ride down the hill.  Our driver asked if it would be OK and we all said YES.  The bus driver said if you sing us a song we will take you back down.  They lined up, took off their hats, and did Maori songs- complete with the movements and the crazy big eyed faces.  They then boarded, politely took a few of the empty seats, stood in the aisle, sat next to the driver and on the steps and chanted and sang all the way down.  At the end they sang a farewell and many blessings song.... I started to pass my hat and we collected enough for a few pizzas for them.  When they got off they were counting the money and skipping down the street...very happy, very thankful.  Someone on the bus said-- You know, if they were smart, they would run back up the hill and try that again!  :)  What was nice is they did not want a free ride. They wanted to work for it with a song..... That says a lot about these really nice young men.  Their Moms would be proud.