Our final stop in New Zealand took us to the metropolitan area where a third of the country's population resides - Auckland. Befitting its size, the city boasts 3 harbors and 2 mountain ranges and was the Capital for 25 years in the middle of the 19th century. Our hotel, the Stamford Plaza, is centrally located and within walking distance of the harbor.
Known as the "City of Sails", Auckland has more yachts per capita than any city in the world. The Maori influence is evident in much of the city's arts and culture and the people we encountered here were extremely hospitable. Although we had been away from home for nearly a month, we felt very much "at home" here and throughout New Zealand.
To view a slideshow of our visit to Auckland, click here.
