Auckland, Devonport
Arriving jet lagged at 7 a.m. after a 27-hour journey, we were nevertheless determined to make the most of our first day in Auckland. After quickly unpacking at the hotel the morning was spent wandering along Queens Street, the main shopping area. Lunch was a good local New Zealand dish: green-lipped mussels washed down with a New Zealand beer. We then decided, on the recommendation of the tour guide, to take the ferry from Auckland harbour to Devonport. In spite of the strange flora the town had a distinctly English flavour and we noticed immediately how friendly the people were. On returning to Auckland it was decided that an early night was in order.

Auckland – The paddle steamer Waipa Delta in the harbour

Auckland – Voyager, a sloop (single mast yacht) outside the Maritime Museum

First meal in Auckland sitting on the waterfront: New Zealand green-lipped mussels and a Kiwi beer

William C. Daldy steamship moored at Devonport

Devonport – Looking towards Victoria Road

Devonport, on the path to Mount Victoria, an extinct volcano

Devonport – The Michael King Writers’ Centre based in the historic Signalman’s House

Devonport – View of the town and Auckland with the harbour bridge in the distance taken from Mount Victoria

The 8 inch disappearing gun originally at North Head but now part of Fort Victoria

A wild New Zealand flower (Lasiandra Tibouchina) on the pathway to Mount Victoria.

Devonport – Refreshments in a street café were needed after the hard climb to the top of Mount Victoria.

Arriving back in Auckland, greeted by the old sandstone and brick Ferry Building surrounded by its modern neighbours
John Grenell – Welcome to our World