My bald head got sunburned!

Half Moon Bay is located about eight nautical miles east of the Auckland Downtown Ferry Terminal. From here, it takes about half an hour to reach downtown. Since the weather is cooperating, we decide to visit Auckland this way. We take the ferry into the city.

Half Moon Bay, east of Auckland, New Zealand

Since nature has dealt me a bit of a blow when it comes to my hair, I usually wear a hat. However, I’ve also become a bit forgetful. In short, I forget my hat, which has disastrous consequences throughout the day. But at first, I don’t notice anything. Passing Rangitoto Island and Mission Bay, we approach downtown Auckland. Devonport lies across the water and can be reached from the city by ferry in 15 minutes. Devonport is a popular destination for Aucklanders. It’s also the main base of the New Zealand Navy. The city center is characterized by Victorian and Edwardian architecture. The buildings house cafés, boutiques, and galleries. It’s worth taking a stroll down Victoria Road and Church Street. Since we had already visited downtown Auckland in the summer, we were initially interested in the Auckland Waterfront, Viaduct Harbor, and the Wynyard Quarter.

Waterfront Auckland, New Zealand

The Waterfront stretches along Waitematā Harbor and serves as a vibrant link between downtown and the sea. Viaduct Harbor was originally built as a village for the 2000 America’s Cup and is now a harbor basin filled with luxury yachts, restaurants, and bars, all with a lively atmosphere. At its eastern end is the New Zealand Maritime Museum, which showcases the country’s maritime history. The Te Wero pedestrian bridge connects Viaduct Harbor to the adjacent Wynyard district to the west and opens to allow tall ships to pass through. The Wynyard district was developed on what was once industrial land and is gradually being transformed into a modern harbor area. In Silo Park, converted cement silos of enormous proportions serve as a reminder of the area’s industrial past. Today, they function as an event venue and open space. Karanga Square, featuring an “urban swimming spot” and unobstructed views of the skyline, invites visitors to linger.

Swimming pool with a view of the Auckland skyline, New Zealand

On Sundays, a historic streetcar runs through the neighborhood, connecting the main attractions. Wide waterfront paths, public art installations, and a delightful mix of restaurants, parks, and harbor activity define the neighborhood’s character. Together, the Waterfront, Viaduct Harbour, and the Wynyard District form one of the most attractive waterfront areas in the Southern Hemisphere. This part of Auckland is among the most diverse culinary destinations in New Zealand and offers something for every taste and budget. The waterfront is Auckland’s liveliest nightlife district. As the sun sets, the atmosphere transforms into a vibrant gathering place. Dozens of bars and restaurants line the waterfront, many of which feature terraces overlooking the illuminated yachts and the skyline.

Bars and Pubs in Viaduct Harbour, New Zealand

Its great appeal is evident even during the day. There’s always something going on here. We walk to Westhaven, which is home to a large marina. Fishing boats and superyachts are moored here—every kind of recreational boat and yacht you can imagine. The sun is beating down mercilessly on my head. Over the past few days, it was no problem at all to stay in the shade because the sky was overcast. Today, that’s much harder, since there’s hardly a cloud in the sky. We stop at one of the restaurants. Over fish and chips and a beer, we watch the hustle and bustle in the harbor basin.

Queen Street in Auckland, New Zealand

Queen Street is Auckland’s main shopping street. It stretches for about three kilometers from Queens Wharf at the harbor up to Karangahape Road in the south. It was named after Queen Victoria and dates back to the early 1840s, when Auckland was designated the capital. The street features a fascinating mix of historic buildings and modern high-rises. From large department stores and international luxury brands (Dior, Prada, and others) to chain stores and souvenir shops, as well as New Zealand specialties such as wool, greenstone/marble, and Māori art, you’ll find everything a shopper’s heart desires here. Dotted throughout are numerous cafés, restaurants, and snack bars.

Old and Modern in Downtown Auckland, New Zealand

We stroll along the bustling street and visit Albert Park. It is a green oasis in the heart of downtown Auckland, above Queen Street and directly adjacent to the University of Auckland. Bounded by Wellesley Street East, Princes Street, Bowen Avenue, and Kitchener Street, it covers an area of 5.6 hectares and sits atop an extinct volcanic cone at an elevation of about 40 meters. The park has a rich and varied history. Originally, this site was home to a Māori settlement with a defensive pā called Te Horotiu. Beginning in the 1840s, the British military built the Albert Barracks here. After the military withdrew, the site was redesigned as a public park in 1881 following a competition and named after Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria. Beneath the lawns, there are also sealed air-raid shelters dating from World War II.

Albert Park, Auckland, New Zealand

The park captivates visitors with its formal Victorian garden design, featuring symmetrical paths, flower beds, lawns, and mature trees, including palm trees, cedars, and native species. Cherry trees bloom in the spring (September–October). From the higher areas, there is a beautiful view of the city and parts of the harbor. The park is popular with walkers, students, picnickers, and photographers. We enjoy the tranquility in the midst of the bustling city. The cool air cools my bald head, so I hardly notice the change.

Back on Queen Street, we treat ourselves to another cappuccino while we wait for the next ferry. We set off from Pier 5 right on time, and half an hour later we’re back in our tranquil suburb of Howick. I don’t need a light in the bathroom today because my scalp is glowing on its own. Not even moisturizing skin cream helps. Unfortunately, my bald spot is sunburned.

May you always have fair winds, and keep a stiff upper lip!