Auckland, New Zealand

Thanks to the snow storm we arrived a day late so we had some adjustments to our schedule.  Rather than free time shortly after our arrival we took a nice coach tour of the city.  We stopped in a Devonport for a walk out to the pier and a stroll through the picturesque town.  We continued on to Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park.  He was the 1st prime minister of New Zealand 1935-1940.  The park as gorgeous views of the harbor.  

On the 2nd day we started out at the All Black Experience which I really enjoyed.  Our guide Rubin talked about the history of the team with pride.  We learned a bit about rugby but mostly the importance of the history and culture of the team.  They are very proud of the Māori culture.  They have a New Zealand Jade stone that they travels with them to all matches.  It embodies the spirt of all players past and present.  They have a special projection room where you can watch both the All Black and the Black Ferns (ladies team) do the Haka.   As of September 13, 2025 1,232 players have represented the All Blacks in official matches, starting from James Allan in 1884 through to Leroy Carter as All Black #1232.  There are 267 Black Ferns. #1 was Jacquileen Apiata and the most recent #267 is Laura Bayfield

It is an honor and privilege to be named an All Black for Black Fern they are forever a member of the team.  They showed a video of some of the players talking about when they 1st found out they were named to the team.  It was quite emotional.  After the tour we were able to try our hand at kicking, passing and agility.  We were given wrist bands that could keep track of your score.  I passed on the activity and spent my time speaking with Rubin about the Māori culture and history.  He spoke proudly of being Māori and learning the language a young age.  He talked about times when former players would visit the experience and how much he enjoyed their discussions.  

After a break for lunch we headed to the harbor for a 90 minute scenic cruise after which we meandered the streets back to our hotel. 

On out last day in Auckland we went the Arataki visitors center to take in the gorgeous views of the rainforest and then on to to Piha beach to dip our toes in the Tasmanian Sea and watch the surfers.

Crossing the streets in Auckland is quite entertaining

Surfing at Piha Beach

For the more adventurous you can jump from the top of the Sky Tower