theaucklandguide: Christine went to New Zealand for a 3-week holiday in December 1999 to welcome the 21st century and returned in January 2002 to live for good when she realized that Peter Jackson's Middle Earth (Lord of the Rings) was the best destination not only to visit but also to live. Of course it also helped that Christine's husband is based in New Zealand :-) Let Christine be your Guide in exploring the hidden and magical delights of Auckland...New Zealand's biggest city. Follow her on Twitter @mrsgooding
A Day At Brighton Beach and Pier
Brighton is sometimes referred to as London-by-the-sea, and is a popular weekend escape for Londoners. It is a short (less than an hour) train ride on the overground from London, and once there, most of Brighton’s key central areas are accessible on foot within a 15 minutes walk.
There are plenty of things to do in Brighton, and some of the most popular spots are the Brighton Pier and Beach.
The first thing many people notice about Brighton beach is that it has no sand. It is a shingle beach...
February 2nd, 2011 | London | Read More
Singles Only Valentines Day Party
A singles survival guide to Valentines Day should include the hip and rockin’ “Valentines Lock and Key Party for 2011″ presented by Singles in The City at the The Dominion Bar.
There are a lot of happening Singles Only Valentines Day events all around Auckland but I have never heard of one like a lock and key party. The thing with singles party is that a lot of people are there to have fun but getting to breaking the ice is a bit harder than most people think.
Dominion Bar thought...
February 1st, 2011 | Auckland | Read More
Love under the Stars
Are you looking for a different way to celebrate Valentines Day with your loved one? Do you want to impress her/him other than the usual box of chocolates, roses, gifts, or dinner date? Do you want to write a better Valentines Day story than most people you know?
Then, look nor travel no further because Stardome Observatory and Planetarium has that one special event for you. Stardome Observatory and Planetarium are holding three special Valentine’s shows called “Love Under the Stars”.
For...
February 1st, 2011 | Auckland | Read More
Top 3 Waterfalls Walking Tracks near Auckland
New Zealand is known for its scenic views and one of the best ways to enjoy the views that made producers of Hollywood films crazy is to go hiking (or tramping, as the Kiwis call it here.) The best news is that Auckland is located in between mountain ranges and waterways which make it a perfect place for stunning waterfalls. Hiking through the well-known and best loved tracks here will give you views worthy to be framed. But, it gets even better when at the end of a track, you will be surprised with...
January 20th, 2011 | Auckland | Read More
Taking Fishing to the Next Level
I tried my hand at fishing and the exhilaration of catching your own fish has no comparison. Ask any anglers you know and they will tell you that the best fish they have ever tasted. Thus, it comes with much amazement that Auckland is able to bring this exhilaration to the next level by combining adventure with the good old fun of fishing! Auckland is known for great fishing grounds due to its unique location. “The central part of the urban area occupies a narrow isthmus between the Manukau Harbour...
January 20th, 2011 | Auckland | Read More
Top 3 No Sweat Summer Activities to Beat the Summer Heat
I have always imagined that water activities are for buff people who love to take the water adventure rides while flexing their muscles. Poor couch potatoes like me are left awe-struck with the athleticism they show when they flip on their wakeboards and skim the waves with their surfing boards. This has left me thinking, are there water adventures out there that are fun and do not need a lot of training nor a lot of skill?
In Auckland, you don’t have to look far because there are a lot of fun...
January 19th, 2011 | Auckland | Read More
The Volcanic History of Auckland, New Zealand.
Mt Eden is one of Auckland’s most famous landmarks, but do you know the background behind it?
Mt Eden is a popular park and key stop on the Auckland tourist routes, as well as being the highest volcano in the Auckland isthmus and a constant reminder that Auckland is situated on a potentially active volcanic field.
Tags: Auckland, auckland accommodation, Free family activities, free fun
January 19th, 2011 | Auckland | Read More
Hop From Auckland to the Hauraki Gulf Islands
Island hopping is one of our favourite Kiwi summer adventures and in Auckland, it is an easy getaway from the city. Auckland is located near the Hauraki Gulf where the famed tourist island destinations of Hauraki Gulf Islands of the Pacific Ocean are located.
Most of the Hauraki Gulf islands are under the Department of Conservation and we have seen an increase in the number of native birds, animals, flora and fauna that adds to the natural beauty of the islands. The bigger islands of Great Barrier,...
January 18th, 2011 | Auckland | Read More
The 2011 Auckland Arts Festival
I am so excited for the upcoming Auckland Arts Festival because they have been very consistent in delivering shows, events and exhibiting art that will make you contemplate, smile, laugh, and recall your yesteryears. The Auckland Arts Festival has a line up of thought-provoking and equally enchanting theatre, dance, music, film, visual arts and special events.
The Festival has something for everyone from every taste, generation, genre or personality. Running from 2nd until the 20th of March 2010,...
December 21st, 2010 | Auckland | Read More
Experience Colonial Times in Auckland, New Zealand.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in Colonial times?
I know I have. I’d love to try on those big fancy dresses and bonnets, ride in a wagon, enjoy tea parties, and watch cannon firing and military activity. Well now you can step back in time and experience the past at the Howick Historical Village in Auckland New Zealand.
Tags: Auckland, Family Friendly, history, History & Information
December 21st, 2010 | Auckland | Read More
Cupcakes for all in Auckland, New Zealand!
Looking for something a bit different while holidaying or travelling around Auckland? Or are you looking for a new rainy day activity? Why not learn a new craft while you explore the city?
Over in at 8 Westbourne Road, in Remuera, Auckland, The Kitchen Central Cooking School can teach you how to bake and decorate cupcakes! For the more adventurous they can also teach you how to cook a formal three course dinner.
Tags: Auckland, classes cooking, cooking demonstrations, Food & Beverage
December 19th, 2010 | Auckland | Read More
The Entrance Rotunda: The Rotunda, or main entrance, of the V&A is amazing in its own right. A magnificent, 30 foot high, blown glass chandelier by Dale Chihuly. The chandelier was installed in 2000 as the first stage of the V&A’s modernization and redevelopment. It is intended as a statement of the V&A’s commitment to modern design. The chandelier was originally going to be titled Ice Blue and Spring Green Chandelier, but is now known as the V&A Chandelier.
The...
December 16th, 2010 | London | Read More
Live at the Islands Concert – Real Kiwi Summer Experience in Motutapu
Auckland is the perfect destination for an island getaway. I know this would come as a bit of a surprise for a cosmopolitan city but the strategic location of the city allows it to be the jumping off point to islands dotting the Upper North Island landscape. Summer is predicted to be longer and hotter (fingers crossed) which will be the perfect combination to an island tour heaven.
Tags: Auckland, Family Friendly, island, summer concerts
December 15th, 2010 | Auckland | Read More
A White Christmas in Auckland, New Zealand?
A New Zealand Christmas is full of beaches, barbeques, and jandals, rather than winter woollies and snow, but now Kiwis have a chance to discover a White Christmas in Auckland – in the middle of summer!
Cadbury’s Share the Joy programme is a series of events in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.
The Auckland event is the best of all – The Share the Joy Giant Snow Globe!
Tags: Auckland, christmas, free family events
December 15th, 2010 | Auckland | Read More
Extreme Adventure New Zealand Style
Kiwi’s love their adventure and extreme sports. For a true New Zealand experience you have to try some of the thrill-seeking, spine-tingling extreme adventures! There is plenty to do near Auckland. You can JUMP, RIDE, or SOAR your way to an action packed adventure.
JUMP
Auckland is known for several things, but two of the two main sites are the Sky Tower and the Auckland Harbour Bridge – did you know you can jump off both of these?
Find great short-term rentals in Auckland with iStopOver.com...
December 14th, 2010 | adventure, Auckland | Read More
Experience New Zealand Maori Culture
The New Zealand Maori are the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, or, in Maori, Aotearoa — meaning The Land of the Long White Cloud.
First, a little bit of history –
The Maori arrived in New Zealand from East Polynesia in several waves some time before the year 1300. They settled in the country, developing a distinct culture, along with a language closely related to the Tahitian and Cook Islands Maori.
The Maori society destabilized in the late 18th century, in large part...
December 1st, 2010 | Auckland | Read More
U2 perform in Auckland, New Zealand!
Even though we’re at the bottom of the world, here in New Zealand we still get our share of fantastic concerts!
Who can blame top music acts for wanting to visit down under? Not only do they get to do some awesome adventure activities like bungy jumping and jet boating, and explore the best views mother nature has to offer, but they can do it all while not being swarmed and followed by paparazzi everywhere they go!
U2 and Jay-Z recently performed at Mount Smart stadium in Auckland. They performed...
November 28th, 2010 | Auckland | Read More
Exploring One Of The World’s Best Museums, MoMA In New York!
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City is often described as the most influential museum of modern art in the world, and a visit to MoMA (53rd Street, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues; map) is a must on most anyone’s New York itinerary.
Here’s how to spend a great day:
Why don’t you start the day with a traditional New York breakfast of bagels, lox, and cream cheese from 53rd Street Gourmet Deli Inc, at 1301 Avenue of the Americas (map). Prices are very reasonable, starting from...
November 25th, 2010 | New York | Read More
A Collection of Art for Everyone in Auckland Art Gallery
I have always believed that anyone can relate to art, be it a small child covered in face paint, an adult reading editorial cartoons or a teenager in love with Japanese animation. Going to museums and art galleries are not just for arts enthusiasts but it is also for every common Tarzan and Jane, like you and me.
The Auckland Art Gallery houses 14,000 artworks which will keep you occupied and far from bored. The Art Gallery has exhibitions, talks, performances, kids’ activities and much more....
November 24th, 2010 | Auckland | Read More
Camping – A New Zealand Summer Tradition!
If there’s one thing Kiwi’s love it’s camping!
Escaping the city and returning to nature, barbeques every night, swimming in the river or at the beach, and even the sand flies and mosquitoes! It’s a traditional kiwi summer tradition!
Some of the best campgrounds are just a stone’s throw from Auckland city – so why not pack up the kids and the family dog and check out our favourite three?
Muriwai Beach Motor Camp and Campground.
Just 40 minutes drive from Auckland; Muriwai is the closest...
November 23rd, 2010 | Auckland | Read More
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