happy medium

can’t get enough…

This is the new transport centre in Auckland, named the Britomart. Old with the New again, they’ve kept the original front entrance dating back to the 19th Century, but the back end and everything underground is modern.

For some reason I’ve always liked Train Stations, starting from a kid catching the train from Leicester down to London. I guess it’s that anticipation of travel and something exciting to happen, and that the train station is where it starts. There’s more sense of occasion than a car, and less intimidation than an airport.

Woke up 4am Monday morning, and headed down to the Viaduct (Auckland Harbour) to watch the final. Place was of course rammed (not as busy as last England game however), and about 25/25/50 French/Italian/Neutral, but by the closing minutes it was more 50/50 France/Italy. Me and James were routing for the Italians from the kick-off (honest)

Still can’t believe how much of a tit Zidane was…

Met with Bronwyne, James and his Girlfriend Maiko on Sunday and headed across the Harbour to Devonport. After having hectic week, it was exactly what I needed. The journey across the bay only takes about 10 minutes, but gives a superb view of the City. It’s then you understand why the sea is such an important part of Auckland:

Even though Devonport is only 10minutes away, it’s very much a different atmosphere. Small boutiques, village feel, beautifully restored colonial homes with verandas facing back over the water. Nice place to spend a Sunday.

James and Bronwyne lived in Devonport (house above) for some time, so they knew the area well and we headed down to the Stone Oven Cafe to grab lunch before catching the ferry back to the smoke.

They get everywhere…