Our walking tour of Auckland, led by Darcy from All About Tours, was incredibly informative. With a population of more than 1.5 million people, Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and one of the most diverse, with 39% of its residents born overseas.
Highlights of the Tour
During the tour, we explored downtown Auckland, strolled through Albert Park, and visited parts of the University of Auckland. Along the way, Darcy shared fascinating insights into the city’s history and culture.
We learned that the Māori, New Zealand’s indigenous people, arrived over 1,000 years ago, navigating the Pacific using the stars and natural cues like migrating birds. European settlement began much later, primarily with whalers, traders, and missionaries from England, Scotland, and Ireland. Formal colonization started in 1840 with the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between Māori chiefs and the British Crown.
New Zealand’s progressive history was another highlight, particularly its world-first achievement in 1893, when it became the first country to grant women the right to vote.
Post-Tour Adventures
After the tour, we enjoyed a delightful lunch at Daily Bread, where we had a lamb tagine meat pie. We then returned to Albert Park and visited the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, where we explored two captivating exhibits.
• The Robertson Gift: A collection of modern European masterpieces, including works by Cézanne, Gauguin, Matisse, and Picasso.
• A gallery featuring portraits of Māori leaders, showcasing the artistry and cultural heritage of Aotearoa.
An Unforgettable Dining Experience
Last night, we dined at The Grove, where we enjoyed a three-hour, six-course meal that Jane meticulously documented:
SNACKS
Venison banged on hot rock
4 combo – oyster, clam soup, plant with bean and potato chips & dip. cucumber and blueberry / sesame cracker
SIX COURSE MEAL
Horse mussel (scallop) white foam with white asparagus & cavier in very large shell + bread roll GF with almond flour. Zucchini for Darryl (allergic to mussels)
Wasabi wasabi – taco with colorful edible flowers made with fried wasabi with wasabi sauce
King fish, cabbage and mustard smokey sauce.
Mushroom taco – fried mushroom & mushroom sauce.
Palette cleanser – camomile sorbet with flowers crushed with mortar and nitrite smoked
Angus filet with 4 kinds of onions – crunchy and sweet.
Japanese tea ice cream, foam and waffle
Treats – chocolate fudge, marshmallow, ice cream and whisky gelatin
The New Zealand wine was delightful and the service was excellent.
Next Stop: Waitomo Caves
Today, we’re leaving Auckland for the Waitomo Caves. Before that, I’ll be tackling a new challenge: driving on the left side of the road! I’ve prepped by watching YouTube tutorials—wish me luck.
Traveling Walters 