Discovering Auckland: First Impressions and Must-Visit Attractions

Day 1: A city walk and a visit to the art gallery. At 1:30 PM, we joined a free guided tour that delved into the world of modern and contemporary art, as well as the rich tapestry of Maori culture.

P3-5: The Huia, once a majestic presence in the ancient forests of New Zealand’s North Island, was an endemic bird species. Its English name, “Huia,” is derived from its distinctive call. When the Maori people migrated to New Zealand from the South Pacific around the 13th century, they were captivated by the Huia, venerating it for its intelligence, nobility, and mystique.

However, their reverence took a dark turn, as they believed that only the most honorable individuals were worthy of wearing the Huia’s feathers. This led to the ritualistic killing of these enchanting birds, with their feathers and skins being presented to the most respected members of their community.

Tragically, this practice, combined with the relentless hunting by colonial settlers armed with more advanced weapons, drove the Huia to extinction.

P6-10: The Robertson Gift. In 2009, the Auckland Art Gallery received a transformative donation from the Robertsons, a philanthropic and art-collecting couple from New York, USA. Their generous gift, valued at over $200 million, included masterpieces by renowned artists such as Picasso, Monet, Gauguin, Cézanne, and Dali.

This donation not only enriched the gallery’s collection but also elevated Auckland’s status as a cultural destination, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience some of the world’s most celebrated artworks.