Day 13 – Saturday

The day in Auckland started a little differently. Viator hadn’t been feeling well since our rafting adventure in Rotorua. Over the last few days, his condition had gradually worsened – he was barely sleeping at night, and each morning he seemed a bit more exhausted. With our flight to the South Island scheduled for tomorrow, we were genuinely concerned and needed to make sure he was fit to fly.

Thankfully, we managed to find a medical clinic open on Saturday and secured a last-minute appointment. The doctor took plenty of time for a thorough check-up, and after careful examination, Viator was finally cleared for travel and we picked up the prescribed medication from a nearby pharmacy.

With that sorted, we declared today a laundry day. After nearly two weeks on the road, it was time to refresh our clothes. Luckily, we found a laundromat close to the hotel, and within a few hours, everything was washed, dried, and ready for the next part of our journey.

Exploring Auckland’s Waterfront: Britomart, Viaduct & Wynyard

In the afternoon, we took things slow to give Viator some rest, but the sunny weather was too good to waste. So we headed out to explore Auckland’s vibrant waterfront, starting with Britomart.

🏛️ Britomart – Heritage Meets Modern Life

Britomart is a beautifully restored precinct in downtown Auckland, blending historic architecture with modern urban design. Once a neglected part of the city, it has undergone a 20-year transformation into a lively hub of boutiques, cafes, and public spaces. The area features some of New Zealand’s most significant heritage buildings, now home to creative agencies, fashion retailers, and eateries. Takutai Square, at the heart of Britomart, often hosts art installations and community events, making it a cultural hotspot.

🌊 Viaduct Harbour – Dining with a View

From Britomart, we wandered over to Viaduct Harbour, a bustling waterfront area known for its restaurants, bars, and marina views. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering everything from rooftop breweries, to Mediterranean-inspired dining, and cozy cafes perfect for brunch or cocktails.

⚓ Wynyard Quarter – Urban Renewal by the Sea

Next, we crossed the Te Wero Bridge into Wynyard Quarter, a vibrant waterfront district that blends industrial heritage with modern creativity. The area is full of public art, green spaces, and family-friendly attractions like Silo Park, which features playgrounds, outdoor cinema events, and even musical seesaws. We strolled along the marina, admired the superyachts, and soaked in the relaxed atmosphere.

We found a sunny spot for late lunch (early dinner), and continued our traditional card game.

Looking Ahead

Tomorrow marks what we thought would be our last day on the North Island before flying to Queenstown on the South Island. But as we’ve learned on this journey – plans can change, and surprises are always around the corner.