Kia Ora – welcome to Auckland, a city of 1.3 million people, shaped by 49 volcanoes, caught between two harbors and surrounded by more than 50 islands.

One in four people own a boat in the “City of Sails” as Auckland is called. It’s very quiet since they lost the America’s Cup, but I did go out on the America’s Cup Yacht NL.41 for an evening sail.

I visited a luxury hotel where most rooms have a grand piano, and the price made me blink Dinner was $300 for two. They have a professional opera singer in to perform during the cocktail hour.

It had been many years since I visited Waiheke Island, just thirty minutes by ferry from Auckland and I wanted to visit some new wineries and inspect two small exclusive properties. There are seven wineries on the island, and two outstanding restaurants. I had lunch in one, and dinner at the other then caught the last ferry back to my hotel on the harbor. I thought the Mudbrick winery and restaurant was outstanding.

The island has a couple of lovely beaches, and is a second home location for wealthy families from Auckland. One road, and I played it safe, I got myself a car and driver for the day.

It would be a great shame to go to Auckland and not get out onto the sparkling Hauraki Gulf with its many islands.

Lots of other good hotels and restaurants. I like the French Café. Visit Ponsonby Road for great wandering.

MO'S MUST SEE'S:

• Kelly Tarlton’s underwater aquarium
• Museum – usually has a Maori concert most days
• Parnell District for good shopping
• Bush and Beach half day tour
• Harbor cruise on an America’s Cup Yacht
• Visit Waiheke Island and have lunch at a winery
• Take a city tour