Day 2 - Takapuna / Maritime museum

Samantha had to present a course at one of the branches so I go along to this area as everywhere is still new to me  . . . Takapuna

Leisurely breakfast and then met Sam for lunch and then went for a stroll and look see at local beach.

Then went to the viaduct area (mini NZ waterfront) and strolled around.

In Auckland and in fact all of New Zealand your never really far from the sea - Auckland seems to successfully integrate Marina and CBD.  (I found Auckland reminding me of Vancouver.)

I then went to the Maritime museum and was fascinated by the whole history of how the Maori's first arrived in NZ - first photo a replica of the type of boat Maori's used - next a traditonal fishing boat used in the Soloman Islands.

I discover that Abel Tasman - from the Netherlands discovered NZ - I never knew that - also that 100's of Dutch people emigrated to NZ in the 50's & 60's - in those days it wasn't a mere 24 hr flight.

Ended up having dinner in the viaduct area - wonderful salt n peppar squid as well as a pot of mussels - exquisite.