Auckland prides itself on being “the most livable city” so crime is really low and it’s pretty easy to get around. I was really surprised to see that students just leave their laptops at a study desk in the library for hours without having to worry about someone stealing it. Generally, normal precautions should be taken to stay safe but I’ve never felt endangered in any way. I feel much safer in this city than I usually do in Boston.
A handy trick to save some money (or possibly spend more) is that most shops have frequent shopper cards that offer benefits after so many purchases. The Shaky Isles on campus gives you a free drink after 8 coffee purchases and you earn a small percent back with all Countdown purchases (the local chain grocery store). The Countdown one I especially recommend if you shop there a lot like I do. Speaking of food shopping, there are also weekly farmer’s markets. The La Cigale market is in Parnell every weekend and sells mainly French food but also fresh fruit, really good hummus and has a Paella food truck. The prices are generally the same as the grocery store and you know you’re getting fresh produce.
Something else that you won’t find in Boston are the BYO restaurants. They make you pay a small fee to bring your own wine but then you don’t have to pay for the super expensive drinks at dinner. These are really great for birthday parties or just a celebratory night out with a lot of friends. They’re mainly located in Ponsonby, a classy neighborhood next to the University of Auckland. Ponsonby Road is a beautiful spot to go look at the shops.
Another nearby sight to see is Mount Eden. It’s a short hike to the top of the mountain but it gives a 360-degree view of Auckland. There is also the mouth of an old volcano at the top, forming a huge crater. The Tramping Club takes a hike up there at the beginning of the semester for wine and cheese at sunset.
Auckland is also similar to Boston in that there is always something going on. Subscribe to the “What’s On in Auckland” newsletter to receive updates of local events. I visited the Manu Aite Kite festival last weekend, a cultural event for Maori in which they fly kites to send messages between Earth and Sky. Seeing all the kites in the sky was really beautiful and we got a quick tour of the Orakei marae. Keeping up with events really pays off and you’ll get to experience unique New Zealand things without even leaving your city!
