Mission Bay is unique, not-to-be-missed part of the Auckland experience. Mission Bay is beautiful little inner city beach only 10 minutes drive from the central city. The area has a great promenade that stretches from St. Heliers Bay to the Viaduct. In summer time the area is abuzz with a ‘california like feel’ of roller-bladers, cyclists, joggers and walkers. The waterfront park is full of all sort of manner of sports paraphernalia whizzing about, from soccer balls to hacky sacks to frizbies. The beach is safe for swimming and kayaks, wind-surfers and catamarans zip along and can be hired during the summer months. If you are in a more relaxed mood, finding a shady spot under a tree or by the fountain and people watching, or having a picnic is also good fun. The restaurant strip offers some great food in a relaxed environment. Mission Bay is the only beach front dining area in Auckland and is an ideal place to enjoy a coffee, drink or meal. There are a large selection of restaurants, ranging from Mediterranean styles, to sushi, to fish and chips. There are also top class cafes and some great pubs to quench your thirst on those hot sunny days. Whereever you are in Mission Bay you will find yourself absorbed by the beautiful views of Auckland harbour and of Rangitoto Island. If you feel like walking a meal off or going for a stroll, about 10 minutes and just around the corner the next bay is Okahu bay with the local tribes war canoe. Also there is the world-famous Kelly Tarltons Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World, where you can journey through icy landscapes and beneath the sea getting eyeball to eyeball with sharks, manta rays and a lot of strange sea life. Up the hill the Savage Memorial and surrounding gardens stand proudly atop Bastion Point overlooking the breathtaking views of the Hauraki Gulf. The Mission Bay area is a must when in Auckland, and really is just a hop, skip and a jump from the central city. | | | |