Lantern Festival at Albert Park

Lanterns, food and music in Auckland City.  Albert Park and Princes Street were overtaken by the festival.  Just three photos in this post in an attempt to give you a taste of what was going on.

The first photo gives a hint that this year is the year of the rabbit.  Quite lovely and beautifully made lanterns in a huge range of colours and shapes.

As for food ... well ... you name it and it was for sale.  I was amazed with the range of options and it was all being cooked on the side of the street.  Talk about fresh!

Music was good too.  The last shot shows a fantastic instrument.  The gent must have very long arms to reach all the frets!

All in all a great night out and it was free too.

A lovely day

Looking towards Auckland City from Bastion Point.

What a glorious day we had with friends yesterday.  The friends had never visited Auckland before, so a quick tour of the sights was in order.  After living in a place for some time you often start to take things for granted due to their familiarity.  I must say that I've always seen Auckland as a lovely city, but taking visitors on a tour helped us to appreciate the place we live just that little bit more.  We are truly very fortunate to live in such a beautiful city.

Even thought the day was pretty overcast we had a great time.  Up "One Tree Hill" to enjoy the views across both harbours, check out the old buildings and wonderfully landscaped parkland.  Cornwall Park is a real gem in Auckland's jewelry of treasures.

After "One Tree Hill" we headed towards Mission Bay for Fish'n Chips at the Fish Pot Cafe, stopping off at Bastion Point on the way.  As always the fish was superb at Fish Pot Cafe!

A trip on the harbour, a walk around the viaduct and a sunset stroll on a western beach ended what was a wonderful day with old friends.  I'll end this post with a few more shots.

Rangitoto Island View from Bastion Point

Ferry Building, Auckland City.

Weymouth Sunset

Weymouth Sunset ... with a tern.