We reached Auckland, New Zealand yesterday late night by a Qantas flight from Melbourne. The flight had quite appropriately stewards sporting Christmas costumes and the in-flight sound systems playing carols. We all also got chocolates.
Today morning we went to the Botony Town Centre, a large shopping and entertainment complex housing over 200 stores, in East Tamaki. Being Boxing Day, there were up to 50 per cent discount on many items, and the place was swarming with shoppers.
After lunch, we headed to a place on the west coast called Manukau Heads Lighthouse, a 19th century tower, in the rural hinderlands of Auckland.
All through we could see lots of greenery, vast areas of farmland, and large number of cows grazing. Rustic beauty in all its glory.
The drive around curvy roads up to this place, which is 240 metres above sea level, presents a breathtaking view of the valley below and the Tasman Sea. The place is also home to many rare flaura and fauna.
From the car park we climbed 120 steps to the top of the tower. It's a beautiful sight no photo or video can recreate.
The place also commemorates the watery grave of New Zealand's worst maritime tragedy, HMS Orpheus, in 1863, in which 189 lives were lost.
(To be continued)
From the bustling cities to back of beyond. You're getting a nice variety in your travels.
ReplyDeleteHow lovely! New Zealand is so beautiful! Wonderful photos too!
ReplyDeleteHi Pradeep - seems like a good first day trip ... so glad you're getting around - cheers Hilary
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