Tags
Auckland, Auckland Harbour, Devonport, Devonport NZ, Esplanade Hotel Devonport, Hamilton, New Zealand, Photography, travel
We arrived in Auckland late morning by coach from Hamilton. After enjoying a light lunch, we then had a free afternoon in the city. We explored the Auckland waterfront before deciding to see the harbour and foreshores from a boat. We enquired at the ferry terminal and were told about the short ferry ride to Devonport.
We purchased our tickets, which were $12 round trip and hopped on to the next ferry to take the 15 minutes ferry ride across Auckland Harbour to the seaside village of Devonport.
Not only is the view spectacular as you leave the city but it gets even better when you arrive at Devonport with its beautiful little bay where you are met with enchanting buildings and parks on the waterfront
On arrival in Devonport the views across to Auckland city are spectacular so don’t forget to take the camera.
You can spend a couple of hours here, or all day, whether you’re into relaxing with a picnic on the shore front reserves and beaches or exploring North Heads history and the Navy museum (free). All are easily accessible, with a flat walk from the ferry building. If strolling around is too much there’s always sightseeing in the horse drawn carriage as a novelty.
There are lots of cafes and shops right in the quaint downtown high street of Devonport centre. Or you can take a leisurely walk along the shoreline (approx 1km) to the museum (has its own cafe). If you’re into exploring, you can walk up to North Head where you get amazing views of Rangitoto Island and the Waitemata Harbour. At the base of North Head is the beautiful Cheltenham Beach, which can be accessed by steps down from North Head, or a flat walk along the road. It is a very safe beach for a swim, or just sit and enjoy the view of the Harbour.
After we finished exploring we popped in to the Esplanade Hotel which is set in a landmark 1901 building overlooking Waitematā Harbour and only a minute walk to the ferry terminal. A delightful way to finish our short time in darling Devonport.
Esplanade Hotel
And then we enjoyed the spectacular ride back to Auckland.
The town of Devonport has plenty of character and history and as soon as you get off the ferry it feels like you’re on holiday. I absolutely loved it and can see myself returning.
Hi Lyn, one day I hope to explore this beautiful area and experience the sites and peace you have shared Thankyou so much for the info. Hope to chat later lots of love Di xxx
Hi Di. I have learned through my blog and my travels that I am much happier off the beaten track. Lovely to hear from you. Chat soon, xxx
Looks spectacular.
Yes Lyn, it was truly lovely and such a nice escape
It’s so strange seeing my home town through the eyes of a visitor, you make me appreciate what I have again instead of focusing on traffic woes and house prices. :)
You come from a very beautiful country. I was so happy that we went to Devonport. So much nicer than being in the busy, noisy, crowded city. Happy Christmas
It looks beautiful Lyn
It really is thanks George. I would imagine it would be your kinda place
Since I was a kid I always wanted to go to Australia. It is the one place I have never been to. Life is funny.
Australia is pretty fab but it is such a long way from you. Maybe one day you will make it. You won’t be disappointed.
Great pictures and information for travelers. Spectacular scenery.
Thanks Linda, it really was lovely
On Sun, Dec 18, 2016 at 3:19 PM, Travelling Italy with Lyn wrote:
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Looks idyllic. Heard of the other one in Tassie,spelt differently.but didn’t know NZ had one as well. Just as well you’re on the job. xx gg
Yes Gail, I had not heard of this Devonport before I went to Auckland. Delightful. xx
Beautiful little town. We took the ferry there when the Arcadia had a port stop in Auckland on our transpacific cruise. It had some huge old trees.
That was a great choice. Yes I remember the huge trees
Really enjoyed your post. I love Devonport but haven’t been there for a long time. Bought back memories and it is still a lovely place. Thankyou. 💜💜💜💜
Thanks Leah, it really is a lovely surprise being so close to a major city 💜💜💜💜
We loved Devonport. We took the ferry here three times, just a ride in 1988 with our toddler and then climbing the volcano cones in 2012 and as a connection point to Rangitoto. Great laid back atmosphere and parks. Thanks for the memories Lyn. Allan
Thanks Allan, it was a great trip and I loved this little township. Lyn