THINGS TO DO in Auckland, New Zealand

Easing back into blogging, I wanted to write about something I'm looking forward to in 2018. We're hoping we'll make it back to Auckland, New Zealand (and Melbourne, Australia!) for a visit. It's been 5 years and 7 months since we moved away from Auckland. I'm daydreaming about visiting all the old places, cafes, restaurants, etc. that were a comfort to me.

If you're ever in Auckland, here's a list of old favorites:

Mount Eden 

For sweeping 360 degree views, Mount Eden is a must-see. It's the highest point in the city and also a dormant volcano. 

Vulcan Lane

In the heart of the central business district, Vulcan Lane is a beautiful laneway filled with shops and restaurants. Take a lovely stroll along High Street and check out one of these places (scroll down below). 

Raw Power Cafe

While you're on Vulcan Lane and in search of healthy but tasty, vegan/vegetarian friendly food, check out Raw Power Cafe. My personal favorite is the marinated tofu burger with greens on foccacia bread. They also squeeze fresh juices. In this photo, I enjoyed a carrot, ginger, beet root juice. 

Cafe Melba

Still hanging around Vulcan Lane? Keep strolling through the laneway toward Cafe Melba for a damn fine cup of Australasian coffee (preferably a flat white) and brunch. On a bright, sunny day, this little, hidden, cozy, charming pocket made me feel like I was in Europe. 

Michael Joseph Savage Memorial Park 

This park has a mint view of Mission Bay and Mount Rangitoto. In the summer, you'll see families flying kites. Afterward, go to Mission Bay and get some ice cream at Movenpick. 

St. Kevin's Arcade

Back in the city on Karangahape Road, I loved spending time at St. Kevin's Arcade. It has vintage shops, cafes, etc. I've noticed they put a Lord of the Fries in here (basically a fry bar with toppings), which I loved from Australia. The Wine Cellar was cozy and the Whammy Bar was a fun dive. While you're there, grab a slice of Sal's pizza. 

Revel Cafe & Kati Grill 

Across the street is Revel Cafe, described as a "grunge" cafe with great coffee and food. Next door is Kati Grill. I've dreamt about this place since I left. They serve Indian Kati rolls with a savory coriander fillings and Kati fries (curried fries). YUM.   

Le Garde Manger

Stop into the charming Le Garde Manger for a nutella crepe. Auckland can feel pretty gloomy during the rainy season, but this cute cafe will perk you up. 

Satya Restaurant

Hands down our most favorite Indian restaurant of all Indian restaurants. Whenever we eat Indian food in Seattle (not as often since we eat more Vietnamese food these days), we always talk about how it feels like we're back in Auckland at this place. We used to eat here at least 1 to 2 times a month. So many birthday celebrations and parties held here. On the menu, there's a "must-have" Dahi Puri dish (a sweet, spicy, creamy potato dish). You certainly should have it. 

Other places to check out in Auckland: 

Food

Umi Sushi (inside the Atrium Foodcourt on Elliot Street), Legendary Thai, Elliot Stables

Venues

Cassette 9, King's Arms 

Sights

Waiheke Island, Mission Bay, Rangitoto Island, One Tree Hill, Devonport village 

It was a total whirlwind pulling this list together and looking back at all the old photos. When I lived there, it was tough to make new friends, so I took a lot of photos instead and became a total wallflower. I'm glad I documented it. I've heard Auckland has changed so much, and I look forward to seeing it along with my old Auckland friends! 

Also, check out my Local Guide to Vegas

Vegas Strong

Nearly a month has gone by, and I'm still processing everything after my hometown of Las Vegas experienced a night of terror. It is like a small town, so it hurts to hear about friends who've lost loved ones. Or they know of others in recovery, still receiving treatment in hospitals. It reminds you again of how tomorrow is never guaranteed. It turns out, Mom decided to pass on free tickets to that festival and decided not to go the day before. *SIGH* It was certainly a shock to our vibrant, bright and wild city. My heart goes out to those who were impacted by the horrific events of that night. 

I'm proud of all the helpers and how the community came together. Images of folks waiting in lines to donate blood and donating supplies, etc. Las Vegas isn't just a stopover or a fun weekend trip. There are a lot of good, hard working (and good humored) people there, that I'm proud to know.

These dark days keep happening, and it's up to us to find a solution. #VegasStrong