Auckland: 25 Feb to 27 Feb

So before I start any of this, I should say something...my camera is no more. It is at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. We were kayaking...that's all I should say. Thankfully, my friends let me use their pictures! So all of the pictures you see of the north island were taken by Callie, Stephanie, or Jen. Thanks guys!

Auckland, at the harbor

Flying to Auckland was weird. We actually stopped in Wellington, so it was two short flights. We got into the city around 1am and stayed at this hostel called Nomad's Fat Camel. It was interesting! Saturday the 26th we woke up and explored the city.

Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, located in the north of the north island. It is a big city full of people! We walked down to the harbor and saw all the boats. 

Auckland's harbor

We then stopped at a farmers market and bought some delicious falafels. 

We also stopped at a cafe and I got my first flat white! I was excited to have one ever since the guys in Switchfoot said how much they love them. It is milk and espresso, similar to a latte but tastes different. All their coffee tastes better!

We went up to the top of the Sky Tower. It's more than 1000 steps! We took the elevator. Just thinking about climbing the stairs reminded me of Indy. 

The Sky Tower

Looking down from the top

You could see remarkably far! It was a beautiful day, so we could see mountains and the ocean and the city. It was very weird to look down through the glass windows in the floor.

View from the top

We then went to a wonderful garden right near the tower. I was in awe of the trees and birds and spent lots of time chasing them around and taking pictures. I hope the fish in Paihia appreciate them :(

One of the sweet trees in the park

It was also really nice to lay in the grass and the sun...it was about 75 F that day. Nice and warm! We walked around the city more and saw lots of things. Many people were very supportive of CHCH, and had donations. 

Busking for CHCH!

Auckland's a pretty cool city.