Half Around The World In 80 Days

New Zealand (henceforth NZ) is a large, varied and sparsely populated country. Arriving into Auckland, the biggest city, presents a depressing spectacle after the exotica of the Tropics. The early morning sky is grey and gloomy, the air is cool and everything looks depressingly English as I ride the bus in from the airport; if Papeete was like Marseilles, then Auckland is surely Birmingham or Manchester on a winter morning.

Still though, Auckland does have some attractions. The city is built across 12 extinct volcanos, the highest of which is Mount Eden which is a short bus ride from the city centre. Even though it is nestled in suburbia, there is a herd of cattle roaming this grassy knoll to keep it well trimmed. There are fine views of the city from the top. The biggest event going on in Auckland at the moment is the qualification stages for the Americas Cup yacht races. Down at the harbour these sleek craft can be seen returning from their racing every evening. This marina also holds many luxury yachts which seem like a good way to spend tens of millions of dollars if they are burning a hole in your pocket.