Behind The Wheel In New Zealand Part 2 - North Island
In this sequel to the first article, we head up to New Zealand's North Island where glowworm, scarlet-tinted lakes and the Hobbit's hometown await you. Be further enthralled by this island's many charms.
Day 16, Saturday
If time permits, you may spend the morning visiting one of the bizarre Black Sand Beaches or curious pillow lava cliffs along the coastal areas in the suburbs of Auckland. Alternatively, you can sample Polynesian flavours, Island music or purchase ethnic art and craft at the lively South Pacific Islands-influenced Otara Market that mainly serves the Pacific Islands community. Aotea Square Market on Queen Street is another fine suggestion should you have a couple of hours to spare.
Otara Market is a 15 minutes’ drive away, south of the Auckland CBD. Take the East Tamakioff-ramp (Exit 444) from the Southern Motorway (SH1). The Black Sand Beaches by the Waitakere Ranges is about 40 minutes away from the CBD by car, mostly via the North-Western Motorway (SH16). Some of the more popular beaches and wild surf beaches include Te Henga (or Bethells Beach, made famous by the TV drama series Hercules and Xena), Piha, Karekare (the Oscar-winning hit movie, Piano, was filmed there) and Muriwai. Feel free to walk around them to experience some fabulous views. Visit the Auckland Regional Council’s website at (www.arc.govt.nz/albany/main/parks/our-parks/parks-in-the-region/) to find out more.
To get to the Auckand International Airport, take the SH10 at Exit 437 from the SH1. Thereafter, take Church Street, then a left to Selwyn Street, a right to Neilson Street, and then a left into SH20. If in doubt, follow the airport directional signs represented with an aircraft symbol.
As usual returning the car at AVIS was a breeze, and everything was settled in no more than 10 minutes!
As you board your plane bound for Singapore, you are bound to reflect on the tremendously fulfilling 16 days in New Zealand, for it is one memorable trip you surely will not forget for a long time.
Credits: Written by Dave Wong. Edited by Bjorn Wong.
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