Only a few hours into our time in New Zealand and we have been overwhelmed by the calming vibe and kindness of everyone we have met. Air New Zealand had incredible customer service, great movies and comfy seats. Food was mildly disappointing but they make up for it with free local wine.

If you arrive in the Auckland airport the city center isn't close. For NZ$ 16 you can take a bus to nearly anywhere that runs approx. every 15 minutes & the man working the booth is a huge help orienting you to the city's layout.

As you can imagine Gil has done hours of research and our first hostel is in the lovely neighborhood of Ponsonby. While we waited to check in we enjoyed our first official meal @ One 2 One Cafe. Our first meal was the perfect combination of homemade sausage, cozy cafe surroundings, & a warm (not allowed due to our budget) cappuccino. It's hip, poshy and reminds us of home. While in Auckland we take a ferry to Devonport, for you SF folks its Tiburon EXACTLY, to walk the coastline, eat ice cream & cuddle up on the grass while watching hang-gliders.

Tomorrow we leave bright and earlier for Northland. Until then we hope you enjoy some of the first photos of our journey.