My first impressions and outward flight are things I’d like to share since my arrival in Auckland on Friday (New Zealand Time).
Table of Contents
Outward flight
Due to my lack of flying experience, my destination was perfect. My travels on the other side of the world, which included two stopovers, were surprisingly worry-free. I had company until the security check in Vienna, but once I passed the doors, I was completely alone.
They flew us to Munich in a small plane, which could have been a private jet if it had been a third smaller. Our destination was reached after 50 minutes.
Following a brief respite, my longest flight was scheduled to take place. If you’re flying from Munich to Singapore, prepare for a 12-hour flight and a time change of +7. Luckily, I made a reservation with Singapore Airlines, so I had ample space and delicious food. Although we didn’t fly with a 380, the 350 is still a large aircraft. I was fortunate enough to be seated next to a family with a baby no more than a year old. So my sleeping schedule was becoming an unbearable task.
My arrival in Singapore left me feeling very weary. While taking a short tour around the airport, I noticed numerous individuals laying on the floor, sound asleep. It was as simple as finding a quiet place. Singapore Airport is frequently used as a photo backdrop. In addition to a sunflower and cactus garden, a small pool and a butterfly garden, each terminal has a unique point of interest. Consequently, the stopover is bearable, but 10 hours is just too long. The last attraction to witness was the „Jewel“, situated in the airport’s core. Unfortunately, you must check out and undergo security procedures to catch a glimpse. I didn’t want to do that, so I remained checked in.
The aircraft I was assigned to for my last flight was a Boeing 787-9. I felt just as comfortable as in the 350, and there was no baby near me. I felt extremely exhausted following a splendid dinner. Consequently, I slept until shortly before breakfast.
After a 9-hour flight and a time shift of +4, I finally arrived in Auckland. To adhere to New Zealand’s strict biohazard guidelines, I had my luggage and antibacterial on my shoes as I approached the exit. My agency booked a shuttle for me, but I had to cover the cost because the flight was late. Whether the agency can help me in New Zealand will determine if my investment was worth it.
First days
After arriving in Auckland’s Central Business District, I stored my luggage at the hostel and set out to explore the town. If you’re acquainted with Vienna, Auckland won’t be awe-inspiring. The district is an unsuccessful imitation of Vienna and is currently undergoing major construction. The main street boasts stores and skyscrapers, while the rest are unsightly blocks of flats. Despite the existence of separate bus lanes, the city is not designed for cars or wheeled public transportation. Pedestrian zones are absent, making it the only option. Additionally, I’m unsure why, but Chinese street food stores seem to be present at every corner. Finding a „normal“ restaurant is difficult because there are at least two street food courts around every corner.
Although the constant green parks are beneficial, I still want to depart Auckland as soon as possible. A lot of individuals have similar thoughts. A town specifically for young adults who want to study, party, and unwind.
The past three days have been fresh and windy, with temperatures not exceeding 14°C, and unfortunately, the weather hasn’t been in my favor either. Due to this, I haven’t had many chances to take photos. In order to get any pictures, I visited the art gallery and the “War Memorial Museum”. It goes without saying that I got wet both ways.
To avoid staying in the disappointing city and see the countryside quickly, I bought a car on Sunday. It looks like a good deal. A seven-seater 2003 Mitsubishi Grandis with automatic transmission. You’re covered by a valid Warranty of Fitness (WOF) until August 2024, and the next service is due at 4000 km, all for around €1800. I need to do some tinkering and might be able to depart Auckland by Thursday. It’s quite strange to drive on the left, but I’ll be fine with it.
Although Auckland is a bit of a letdown, I have a vehicle, nearly all the necessary documents, and a newfound motivation to travel, so I can’t complain after 3 days.
For more picture take a look at the gallery.
