A week in Auckland - ideas for things to do please.

[i-need-a-martini]

Any suggestions?

We are flying to Auckland and then driving to Rotorua for a few days then back to Auckland.

Can anyone suggest:

• stop off points along the way we shouldn't miss?
• places to have breakfast and dinner in Auckland?
• things that would interest a 12 year old girl?
• quirky museums or galleries?
• good hotels we can stay at?

We aren't sporty/outdoorsy so not really interested in hiking/kayaking kind of things although we do like a good view.

[tasfleur]

Martini, New Zealand is a magical and gorgeous place .. if you have the time, take the train from Christchurch to Greymouth and back on the south island.  You will see an incredible volcano on the way right across from where the train stops at one point, and going over the alpine part where the train spirals down the mountain on itself is something you have to see to believe.

Have a great time xx

PS ...... Be sure to bring me back a bag of Bourne-vita please, can't get it in Australia .... 

[i-need-a-martini]

Thanks Tas.

We are only staying a week and have to be in Auckland so no trips to South Island.

I was thinking we could take the train down to Wellington (I have been to Wellington and love it) and then drive back up to Auckland stopping at Roturoa on way.

I just can't get excited about Auckland because there doesn't seem to be much to do...

[cherry*135]

Kelly Tarlton Underwater World used to be good.

There is a theme park in Auckland, Rainbows End, but it is pretty lame compared to Gold Coast ones.

Auckland Museum is in a good location. Theres is a Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT)

The train from Auck to Wgtn is a long long way (12 hours?) I did that ONCE.

The Te Papa museum in Wellington may interest both of you.

Rotorua is interesting but very touristy.

I am biased towards the South Island..

[cherry*135]

Waiheke Island - wineries or other winiries in the Auckland area - 12 yo can have a meal and a soft drink!

Good zoo

Have a look at tripadvisor -  things to do - attractions - in Auckland for ideas.

[lionrose.7]

Take the Ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island, that is a nice trip across the habour.

Stunning Yachts and eateries down that part of town.

You should stop off at Tauranga/Mount Maunganui on the way back from Rotorua, you may like to stop off in Papamoa and have coffee with me hahaha.

Mount Maunganui two and a half to three hours from Auckland

[i-need-a-martini]

Thanks Am.

Yes it is a long trip to Wellington and I doubt the kids will survive 12 hours on a train so I doubt we will do it. But I have heard the train trip is quite scenic. Te Papa is fabulous and I really wanted to take the family as I was a consultant for them when they opened so am proud of the work i did there!

Happy to do touristy things in Rotorua. Sit in some hot pools, do a family rated raft thing, buy tacky souvenirs - that sort of thing.

But I would like to see something interesting along the way between Auckland and Rotorua.

We don't really have the time to do anything south or north beyond these two places.

[i-need-a-martini]

Lion - I have a friend from Weiheke so his family is showing us around one afternoon. That should be nice.

Mt Maunganui sounds like it could be good. I will google and see.

I didnt realise you were living there. I'd love to visit but I can't break my 'no personal contact' rule for ebay! Although I am sure you are lovely and all...lol!

[cherry*135]

Warn the kids before they get there that Rotorua smells like rotten eggs (the sulphur) .

[i-need-a-martini]

Yes I have heard. I don't mind the smell but I am bracing myself for their complaints!!