Auckland - Climbing a Volcano (again) and a Successful Watch Battery

Friday 25 January 2013 - Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland is called the "City of Sails". Notice this is not the "City of Sales", but unlike Papeete in French Polynesia where the guy in the jewerly store said, "Non, non, non, monsieur, we do not have your EXOTIC battery", we were able to got my $35 Timex Expedition watch's battery changed albeit at the cost of NZD 25 or about $21 US. Not cheap--but it was possible. This was my 5th or 6th visit to the biggest and most high strung city in New Zealand. High strung because there was actual traffic on the streets and we actually heard one fire engine and one ambulance in the entire day we were there. Never did see a police car, much less run running with lights and siren. But I really do like Auckland. Nobody doesn't, except maybe the very sad looking puppeteer. (Ray in Ambleside, take note.) 

As planned, Barbara and I repeated the most wonderful ferry ride and hike to the top of 1000 foot high Rangoroto volcano which sits in the middle of the Auckland Harbour. The entire island is a natural area in which all non native flora and furna have been expunged. The old rat/moose traps I saw 6 years ago were still there, but a sign at the ferry wharf said they have left the traps there in case "someone brings any non-native animals." I'm glad I didn't bring my rat. The view from the top of the volcano was wonderful, as was the hike amidst the old lava floes, and the boat ride was a good as before. See my previous trip blog for more details from the link under my picture at right.

A nice revisit to Aukland for me, and a great first visit for Barbara in 80 degree sunny weather.