We were looking for a home that was independent, with easy parking, good wifi, and most of all convenient to downtown Auckland. Tracey’s home fit the bill perfectly for us for a week. We drove into Auckland only once on a Sunday morning to the War Museum to catch a tour and a Maori performance. Because parking was free on Sunday around the museum, it was easier to drive than to catch a bus & transfer. Otherwise you can catch a bus easily at the top of her street (a bit of a steep hike, but comfortable for us). Fifteen minutes later you are standing downtown at the ferry terminal. We also took the Birkenhead ferry in to the downtown ferry terminal which was all of a 20 minute commute. For seven bucks each way, it’s a beautiful way to see Auckland from the bay & no traffic or downtown parking. It’s easiest by purchasing an AT card for $10 and tap-on & tap-off if you’re going to be around for more than a couple of days. The card is good for all the ferries as well.
The apartment is set-up nicely for a family, but with 2 of us it was spacious and comfortable. Tracy was very accommodating and considerate as well. We enjoyed our mornings lounging in the lovely back yard for breakfast and reading. Chelsea Park directly below their home is nice trek to explore, while enjoying the views of Auckland across the bay and the bridge right before you. We ran out of time long before we ran out of things we wanted to do, so we hope to be back, and when we do, we will be returning to Tracy’s home for sure.