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26 | FireFlyz
NewZealand’s natural beauty iswell
documented, but her cities are also
refreshing and stimulating for a short break.
SarahRees
visits Auckland and discovers a
city brimmingwith grace.
Urban Lifestyle
With A Rural Vibe
T
erms
like ‘major city’ and
‘key transport hub’ con-
jure up certain expecta-
tions – busy, noisy places
that throb with traffic and
people cramming down
too-small streets between
too-high buildings. Pleasure requires
endurance, and rest and relaxation are
by no means anticipated.
Let Auckland confound all of those
expectations with its grace and class,
offering all the grandeur and culture of
city life without the stress – a city break
as charming as the New Zealanders
themselves.
Water baby
The city sits around two harbours and
emanates from the Central Business
District (CBD), beyond which lie idio-
syncratic suburbs that serve as areas of
art, shopping, history or culture in their
various guises. Exploration is easy, with
wide streets and sensible public transport
making navigation of the various attrac-
tions of this attractive city a breeze.
The harbour location also ensures
there are beautiful beaches within a
short drive, while the ferry terminal is
a gateway to some of the most visited
areas in the vicinity. If there is only time
for just one day trip, make it to Waiheke
island. This crop of volcanic rock – 45 minutes from
the city centre – is lush and green, enjoying more
sun and less rain than Auckland CBD to exude an
air of paradise.
Wineries are one of the top attractions on this
stunning island, and it is easy to join a day tour to
explore a selection. It is also a hub for artists and
boutique crafts, not to mention a popular place for
some sun-sea-and-sand amid picturesque surround-
ings. Another popular ferry hop is from Auckland to
Devonport, a mere ten minute ride that transports
visitors to a pretty Victorian town of cafes, souvenir
shops and a waterfront park, the latter being ideal
for children.
Queen Street is the main
thoroughfare of the city and
a place for shoppers to get
their wares
Waiheke island is
a lush paradise of
wineries, artists and
beaches