Of Auckland's new Wynyard Quarter

Recently Auckland’s new Wynyard Quarter opened. This is the first stage in redeveloping the old tank farm. Converting it from an eyesore into a usable modern community environment.I’m actually astounded that something cool managed to get developed downtown in this city, but that is clearly the cynic in me screaming for attention.I decided to play-test it. I took my kids down to have a look-see, and explore it through their eyes.Firstly, I found a park easily. And it was free. This sates the man in me.We walked to the concourse and as soon as the kids saw the playground and wading pool they were gone. Off in two different directions. I initially had no idea where each of them were. On the plus side, there were many parents with their kids keeping a close eye on things.So. They LOVED getting into the water. They LOVED the massive sandpit playground. Things to climb on, things to spin on. They LOVED the astro-turf hill features. Master 8 LOVED the basketball court...There are so many things to discover there. The completely unnecessary but really fun gantry. The buoys. The silos. Random concrete blocks. All things they played on for ages.They also enjoyed themselves on the tram. There isn’t actually a lot to view on the short loop around the venue, but the trams do add a little quirkiness.Time passed quickly, and the consensus was one of total “can we go back?”.Absolutely!!I do note that the restaurants there are still struggling to get up to speed with systems and service, but that is something that will improve.It would be nice if there was a hotdog cart or similar. Kids don’t really get into grown-up food.I can’t wait ‘til Summer. It’s going to be awesome down there.- S