Auckland, Tiritiri Matangi Island & Bethells Beach

Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand's roughly one third of the total population, also has a lot to offer besides the Royals yet!

Although yes the cities here have no old buildings as we know it from Europe, Auckland is mainly characterized by its excellent cafes and restaurants!

The Sky Tower dominates the town and is illuminated at night violet.

Probably the best view you have but from the 196 m high extinct volcano Mt from Eden.

Auckland is located on the Hauraki Gulf consisting of 47 small islands.

On some day trips you can explore the islands, I chose Tiritiri because it is a bird National Park next to the beautiful landscape.

Here we were able to observe some rare birds such as the Takahe (red beak), Kakariki (green with red head) and Tui (white balls at the throat).

In addition, the views of the lighthouse and the surrounding beaches is really worth a visit!

Last but not least, has brought me and my roommate on the road bifurcated Eva our New Zealand friend Ben to a very special place on the west coast near Auckland.

Here near the Bethells Beach, sand dunes mix with green hills, rivers and lakes, the whole thing looks like this:

The west coast beaches are very suitable for surfing! But here come the quch Auckländer weekend for walking or relaxing forth.

Auckland is really the perfect city to live there, pleasant climate, excellent infrastructure, nice cafes, beautiful houses, best excursions in the immediate vicinity and most of all the friendly people who live there! Too bad that New Zealand is soooo far away!