Day 97 - The Viaduct's Te Wero Bridge

I've always found something hypnotic about those bridges that slowly open, lift and drop to let through passing vessels and this one in the Auckland Viaduct's Wynyard precinct is no exception.

Day 96 - Gibbs Farm

The very definition of a 'hidden gem', Gibbs Farm in the Kaipara Harbour to the north west of Auckland is almost totally unknown to the average Kiwi on the street and is criminally overlooked by the guidebooks. And yet I've just spent one of my most inspiring days out ever at this giant sculpture park, where world-class works of supersized art, stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape and free-roaming imported animals (emus, buffalo, zebra) combine to provide a mesmeric experience for kids and adults alike.

Day 95 - Auckland's Asian Food Courts

Asian food is never in a short supply in Auckland and you don't need to pay through the nose to get the good stuff. The food courts off Ponsonby Road and Queen Street are favourite spots for a quick, cheap and always tasty feed, and the portions are almost embarrassingly generous.

Day 94 - Kumeu country walks

I had the good fortune to be able to live in the countryside when I first moved to New Zealand and long walks through the rolling fields and gentle hills of Kumeu to the west of Auckland were a real highlight of my time there. So when a free weekend presents the opportunity to revisit the area and get back to nature, I don't need much convincing.

Day 93 - Random old stuff on Trade Me

Trade Me - the online market where 'Kiwis by and sell' - has become a favourite online destination while I've been living here. Whether you're looking for a rare book or a second-hand piece of furniture, Trade Me usually delivers, but browsing its many thousands of items is at its most entertaining when it throws up random antiques like this mounted wall clock and barometer.

Day 92 - Stormy skies

We get some wild weather events in Auckland from time to time, which can be as exciting as they are unnerving. Yesterday's incredible split sky over the CBD was a case in point.

Day 91 - The Cav

There aren't many truly great pubs in New Zealand but I'd argue that College Hill's Cavalier Tavern - affectionately known as 'The Cav' - is definitely in with a shout. A great selection of tap beers, an outdoor deck with stunning views out across the city, sport of the TV, hearty burgers and fruit machines - it has all the trappings of a first class watering hole. The only thing missing is crisps behind the bar, but I guess you can't have everything...