Archive for September, 2006
Waitakere Boutique Hotel
September 25th, 2006For anyone hoping to enjoy a luxurious stay in the city of Auckland, Waitakere Boutique Hotel is the ideal option. The hotel rests within 70 acres of stunning rainforest, yet it is located perfectly for visitors hoping to explore the exciting city. The hotel has been given a Qualmark four star rating, and all rooms are decorated in a modern, stylish manner. The hotel boasts a spa, sports facilities and the cosy Kauri Lounge and Bar. The hotel’s restaurant serves delicious food, with options of eating outdoors to enjoy the stunning views, or visitors can dine by helicopter, which departs from the hotel’s own helipad.
The Orbit Sky Tower Restaurant
September 19th, 2006The Orbit Sky Tower Restaurant has to be the most spectacular eating experience available in Auckland. The restaurant is located in the famous Sky Tower, and it stands190ft over the city. The restaurant turns at a pace of one revolution per hour, and it offers diners a stunning view of the entire city. Although this spectacular setting is impressive, the Orbit Sky Tower Restaurant also serves up delicious food from its a-la-carte menu of New Zealand cuisine. The menu changes regularly, so there is always a new dish to discover.
The Auckland International YHA Hostel
September 19th, 2006For anyone travelling to Auckland on a budget, the Auckland International YHA Hostel, is a cheap and comfortable accommodation option. The hostel is located within 5 minutes of the city centre and it offers a variety of rooms, from multishare to double ensuite. The hostel has been awarded a 5 star Qualmark rating and it is equipped with a large kitchen, a TV room, a video library and a number of friendly communal areas. This state of the art hostel is wheelchair accessible and eco-friendly.
The Auckland War Memorial Museum
September 19th, 2006
To gain a good understanding of New Zealand’s history, visitors should take a trip to the fascinating Auckland War Memorial Museum. This museum is famed for its natural history section, with numerous specimens of native species in the Hall of New Zealand Birds. Other highlights within the museum include, an ancient war canoe, an authentic Maori meeting house, and beautiful paintings of Maori chiefs. The Auckland War Memorial Museum is located in an area known as the Domain, a beautiful green space ideal for lunchtime picnics.
The Auckland Art Gallery
September 17th, 2006Spanning two different galleries, a trip to the Auckland Art Gallery is a must for anyone with an interest in art. Both of the galleries are located in the centre of the city. The Main Gallery (on the corner of Kitchener and Wellesley Streets) boasts an extensive array of both national and international art, with an emphasis on traditional New Zealand art. The New Gallery (on the corner of Wellesley and Lorne Streets) emphasises modern art, with a focus on Maori and pakeha fusion. The Auckland Art Gallery also boasts a lovely shop.
Whangarei
September 17th, 2006For a wonderful trip just outside the city of Auckland, visitors should head to the lovely town of Whangarei. Located in the Northland, this town boasts a population of 45,000, and it is the largest in the area. Whangarei is famed for its lovely gardens and it boasts the beautiful Whangarei Falls, which provides three river pools. Closer to Ngunguru, Whangarei Head offers visitors a choice of lovely beaches. The town is also home to the Clapham Clock Museum, which celebrates clocks throughout the ages.
Rice restaurant
September 15th, 2006With a reputation as one of the finest eateries in the city, Rice is a reasonably priced restaurant located in the heart of the Auckland. As the name suggests, the restaurant serves delicious dishes from across the world – all of which involve rice or derivates of rice. Rice is a modern and stylish eatery, with friendly, yet professional staff. The restaurant also boasts a wonderful and well-stocked bar (a taste of the wasabi-infused saki bloody mary is a must!)
Water sports
September 13th, 2006For anyone interested in water sports, New Zealand is an idyllic location. Wherever you are in the country, you’re bound to be close to water. So whether you are close to sea, river or lake, New Zealand is certain to have a water sport to suit your tastes. Surfing, swimming and sailing are particularly popular amongst both locals and visitors, and beaches are generally well signposted to ensure swimmers’ safety. River-rafting, kayaking and diving are also popular.
Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World
September 13th, 2006Adults and children are likely to enjoy a trip to Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World. Located under Auckland’s waterfront, this aquarium is housed in the city’s former storm water tanks. Within the clear tunnels, visitors can encounter amongst other creatures: penguins, piranhas, stingrays and sharks. Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World also boasts a life-size replica of the hut used by Captain Robert Scott, the Antarctic explorer. The aquarium is open daily, and sharks are usually fed at 2pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The Porterhouse Blue Restaurant
September 12th, 2006Located in the village of Devonport, The Porterhouse Blue restaurant is much celebrated by Auckland’s diners. The restaurant is an 8-minute ferry ride from the city, with a courtesy bus collecting patrons from the wharf. The Porterhouse Blue restaurant boasts a charming, old-world décor and a menu to suit all tastes. The restaurant serves mostly European and traditional New Zealand food, and its portions are famously huge! The restaurant’s staff is never less than courteous and accommodating.