Week four: Auckland life

Things have settled into a relaxed routine now that we're settled into Auckland life. We are staying in the Old Government House on the University Campus, just across the road from Albert Park. I am trying to have a walk around the park most mornings and there has been some beautiful weather to do that in. They are now setting up the park with Chinese lanterns ready for the lantern festival later this week. The only problem with where we are staying is that any trip out requires a steep climb back up the hill, but at least I'm getting fit!
I have started to explore Auckland, including the zoo with my cousin and her children who were down from Kerikeri for a few days. I am mostly limited to places within walking distance, including the waterfront, fish market, the Domain, Parnell and the CBD. On Saturday we went out for a curry (which are a lot milder than at home so you have to ask them to spice it up a bit) and then to see Dolly Parton in concert - certainly an experience! On Sunday I took the ferry over to Devonport which was just beautiful in the sunshine and the views from Mt Victoria back across to Auckland were stunning.
Yesterday I went to an outdoor yoga class at the waterfront overlooking the harbour. It was very hot and the views were amazing. Very different to my yoga class in Nottingham! I followed that with a swim in the Tepid water baths to cool off. The water seemed more cold than tepid after the heat outside, but it was certainly refreshing!