Sydney to Auckland

Auckland

1.13.18 - 1.13.18 80 °F

Our last stop and debarkation port was the wonderful (and warm) city of Auckland - New Zealand's sailing capital. Since our flight did not leave until early evening, we chartered a private 4 hour city tour, which turned out to be wonderful. Auckland is a summer paradise, encompassing a number of long dormant volcanoes that, when climbed, offer some spectacular views of the city. In our visit to the arboretum, we were finally able to see the silver fern (green on the top and silver underneath) which is the symbol of New Zealand.

This was a wonderful cruise. New Zealand, the last country to be inhabited on earth (12th century), is warm, friendly and wonderful. They people have learned to coexist well, and both the Mauri and European cultures have melded together much better than in other places in the world. I would love to go back and see some more of the inland areas.