Leg 2: Auckland

We landed in Auckland to sunny, warm weather. I'd call it downright steamy at 72 degrees, considering it was 19 when we left home on Wednesday. 

The first thing I notice when traveling to a new place is always the smell. A taste or smell can immediately send me right back in time. The girls and I think that Auckland smells like flowers. Crisp and clean though, rather than sweet and sticky. There's a hint of citrus and salt. 

Now let me confess right from the start that I grossly underestimated Auckland. I'm a bit glad I did, because everything about this city has been a wonderful bonus.

It is such a mix of industrial and artistic, perfectly balanced in such a logical way that you wonder why every coastal city isn't just like this. And everywhere, children are encouraged, no enticed, to explore their surroundings.

Lily says the city reminds her of a mix between Seattle and Nantucket. I can see it, though I'd throw a pinch of London in there too. Jeremy says he sees it a bit like a young America. The people here are extraordinarily their own, and clearly come from every walk of life imaginable.

If you come, head straight to the quays and fish market, where you'll not only get phenominal seafood, but you'll also get to see the local teenagers walking around in wetsuits and randomly jumping into the harbor. You might also see 5 or 6 blokes walking around in 60s-esque Sargent Pepper-ish costumes, or a group of musicians/activists singing and dancing through the streets past Prada, Dior, and Quicksilver storefronts.

Beautiful architecture is enhanced by environmentally progressive structures. You see, New Zealand is fiercely environmentally protective. Ecotourism is a huge money generator, but even if it weren't, I think the Kiwis would be just as devoted to the island and it's creatures.

For being a young republic at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, there is an undeniable Old World feel married to the fierce independence of youth. It's permeating, and contagious.

Thanks Auckland. We'll be back.

What I wish I'd done: Allotted another day or two to roam around more.

What I wish I hadn't: Again, nothing. No regrets so far.

Total travel time: 27 hours for this leg.