We highly recommend staying with Gill. She made us very welcome, was generous with her time and advice about what to do and see in and around Auckland. She knows the history, culture, politics of New Zealand and is an astute observer of current events, all of which enables the visitor to gain a greater appreciation of the places they visit and people they meet. Her warm, welcoming cottage is just a stones throw from downtown Auckland and is in the midst of the cafés, restaurants, shops, galleries etc of Ponsonby Road. Walking to and from downtown Auckland is definitely an option but be aware Ponsonby Rd sits atop of the hill and the walk home will help keep you in shape. Sharing an evening glass of wine with Gill beside her fire discussing local attractions, events and issues was a delight for Dorota and I. We appreciate very much the time Gill gave to us and at the same time we felt at home and complete in our privacy - it is a reflection of Gill's quality as a host that both take place without any sense of effort required by her, though without doubt it must cause her to adjust her life at least a little to have guests share her home. Gill's garden and cottage are lovely and reflect her passion for landscape design and simple clear elegance.