“Straddling a narrow isthmus created by 60 different volcanoes, New Zealand’s former capital boasts scenic beauty, historical interest and a cosmopolitan collection of shops, restaurants, museums, galleries and gardens. Rangitoto, Auckland’s largest and youngest volcano, sits in majestic splendor just offshore. Mt. Eden and One Tree Hill, once home to Maori earthworks, overlook the city. One of New Zealand’s fine wine districts lies to the north of Auckland.
Auckland served as New Zealand’s capital from 1841 until 1865, when the seat of government moved to Wellington.” – Princess Patter
We sailed overnight from the Bay of Islands to Auckland. The city was originally established to be New Zealand’s capital. Now it stands as a bright, modern city of 1.5 million People. Located on a natural harbor, it is said that at least one third of the residents own their own sail boat. We did a motor coach tour of the city and then over to the north shore of Waitemata Harbor. Auckland and the area around it are dotted with extinct or dormant volcanos which makes for a quite hilly and striking landscape. It also makes for quite fertile land for farming and livestock. On the north shore we visited a volcanic lake that supplies the water for nearby Devonport and, of course, we toured the village of Devonport. Devonport is a quaint bedroom community north of Auckland which thrives on tourism.
When we were done with our tour, we opted to wander through the shops of Devonport. We returned to the Pacific Princess by ferry.