Volvo Ocean Race Stopover in Auckland

The Volvo Ocean Race Stopover in Auckland has added another level of vibrancy to an already buzzing Auckland City.  With the Eagles concert and the ICC Cricket World Cup helping to fill the city, all kinds of pop up stalls and attractions are filling the Wynyard Quarter, Silo Park and the Auckland Waterfront, giving it a life and energy that makes you proud to be an Aucklander!

We thoroughly enjoyed a great lunch at the Merchant of Venice, one of many great restaurants in the North Wharf strip along the Wynyard Quarter and could see the Volvo Ocean Yachts competing in what we later learned was The New Zealand Herald In-Port Race.  A stroll after lunch around the boats for sale near the always fascinating Orams Dry Stack facility, took us past the amazing superyacht MY Serene and along to the Viaduct Events Centre where the Volvo Ocean Race action is centered.  There's a free display of pretty stunning photos from the races over the years that really bring home just how extreme this sport really is, then we found ourselves amid the crowds lining the area where the boats were being welcomed back in after their race.  The all female crew from race winning entry SCA jubilant.

Due to the cyclone, the yachts will be staying in port until at least Tuesday, however if you're planning to visit them today (Sunday 15th March) be aware that the Race Village is closing early due to the forecast storm, so don't leave your run too late! The restaurants, I am sure, will remain open! 

Here's a selection of photos from our day...