The big little city

Well, that's what Auckland calls itself and it does indeed feel just like that.

I had a day in the city and made first for the Skytower. I have seen this on several occasions but usually as part of the skyline. Close up it is quite amazing. I had no desire to go up it though and, as the whole place was thronging with people of every nationality mainly it would seem queuing to get to the top or do some strangely ridiculous thing like Skywalk or Skyjump, I made off pretty quickly!

I later confirmed when I went down to the waterfront, what I suspected - a cruise was in. Actually there were at least three cruise ships in, one of which was the most enormous one I have ever seen and, judging from the number of people just staring up at it, I wasn't the only one to think this. no wonder the city was full of people.

I sought refuge in the Art Gallery, which has just undergone a huge expansion. It is an impressive place, full of light and space. I like the way the old building has been incorporated into the new glass atrium, as here. The gallery feels open to the street and integrated with Albert Park behind. It is an oasis of calm, with lots of quiet places, an escape from the crowded streets outside. It also has an excellent café and lunch was great (Thank you Rough Guide for recommending it!)


Chinese New Year is currently being celebrated, as it is every year, with a Lantern Festival and Albert Park is full of lanterns. I think we will have to get up there tomorrow evening, when there are fireworks as well.