Before I left Australia numerous time people asked me had i packed. I packed the night before, but as I suggested, as long as I have some cash (usually US$$$$) and a passport, I’d be ok. Well today I kind of validated that point.
I could have packed more clothes in case of an emergency, but when I got my pants caught on a wire and ripped, it meant i needed to get another pair. Luckily Auckland is a thriving shopping destination and a quick rummage through the sale rack at a Mountain Designs store had me a new pair of pants for $39NZ.
The shopping meant I missed the ferry to Rangitoto which I was a bit disappointed with. Instead my backup plan was to go see some kiwis at the zoo. Alas i saw no kiwis either, other than the native human population often referred to as kiwis, by Australians.
Auckland Zoo
My afternoon and evening trip ended up going over the harbour to Devonport and climbing the extinct volcano, Mt Victoria for sunset views of Auckland, with all the romantic couples, local youth getting drunk and several photographers. Oh there were also the ultra fit running up and down the mountain. Its not a long run/walk up, but its bloody steep.
You certainly get some great views all round from up there and as the sunset I wandered back down for the ferry home.
Tomorrow is one of those days where I’ll have some time in the morning in Auckland, jump on a plane to Santiago arriving 5 hours before I departed, meaning i’ll have half a day and an overnight stopover in Santiago, before boarding a plane for La Paz, Bolivia the next day. I don’t expect I’ll get much sleep.
Auckland at night