Manu Vatuvei is gearing up to play in the Downer NRL Auckland Nines but wants to give visiting fans a few more reasons to stay longer in Auckland.
Warriors star Manu Vatuvei is looking forward to playing in the 2017 Downer NRL Auckland Nines again which kicks off on 4 and 5 February. The Aucklander took some time out of his training schedule to share some of his favourite things to do around the region.
While it’s going to be a jam packed weekend for fans – with the chance to see all 16 NRL clubs and more than 285 star players battle it out in 31 action-packed games – it’s worth them staying longer to check out some of action off the field as well.
1. Favourite island – Waiheke
Waiheke Island is the ultimate island retreat. Just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. Known as the island of wine for its many wineries and vineyards, a wine tasting or tour is a must. For the more adventurous, soar above the tree tops and soak up the views with a flying fox zipline adventure in Auckland.
"Waiheke is so beautiful. Beautiful beaches and scenery everywhere but going down the Ecozip is definitely a favourite," says Manu Vatuvei.
2. Favourite Beach – Maraetai
Offering spectacular views and an incredible location on the Pohutukawa Coast in Auckland’s east, families flock to this popular beach every summer. An early European settlement, Maraetai means ‘meeting place by the sea’ in Māori and the name is just as appropriate today.
"I like to keep it local so I go to Maraetai. It’s a beautiful spot and it’s got a wharf which is perfect for jumping off and practising bombs," he says.
3. Favourite places to eat – the markets
Auckland is the world's largest Polynesian city and has a vibrant and diverse population including Maori, Pacific, European, Asian and Indian cultures.
The Otara Markets contain a mix of all of Auckland's cultures, offering authentic food and fresh produce, clothing, accessories, jewellery, fashion, arts and crafts and more.
Located in the heart of South Auckland, some weekends there will be cultural performances, live music and entertainment adding to the lively atmosphere. Held every Saturday from 6am to 12pm.
The Auckland night markets offer around 200 stalls including 70 to 80 amazing food stalls cooking up tasty street snacks and delicacies from around the world. Also on offer are arts and crafts, jewellery, clothing, fashion accessories, mobile phones, fresh produce and more.
Free live entertainment, cultural performers, clowns and kids rides, fortune tellers, foot massage, henna, ear wax candles, eye lash extensions and airbrush tattoos make for a truly memorable night out for the whole family.
Manu Vatuvei says: "I like to eat a variety of foods so I check out the markets when I can. I often head out to the Otara markets on a Saturday or Pakuranga Night Markets on Saturday. The food is really nice. I love the Chinese food, the desserts and I always love the dumplings."
4. Favourite place to take a family – Rainbow’s End and Jump
Auckland has a huge range of attractions, from the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere to up-close encounters with penguins and sharks. Ride the roller coasters, soak in the thermal hot pools, join a food and wine tour or find Auckland’s most scenic spots.
"My favourite place to take my kids is Rainbow’s End but they also love to go to Jump, which is a massive trampoline place. It’s a lot of fun, we all go and have jump around and play some dodge ball," says Vatuvei.
5. Favourite spot for a run
Explore a world of contrasts: rocky coastlines and sheltered bays; lush native forest and wide open countryside; pounding surf and trickling streams; remote wildlife sanctuaries and bustling city streets. Whatever the person’s age, ability and experience, there are so many options to go for a run in Auckland Check out the Auckland Domain, the city's oldest park or head out to Point View Reserve Point View Reserve, a 29.1-hectare natural heritage reserve with panoramic views.
"I love running around the Auckland Domain if I’m in town. Otherwise when I’m training close to home I often go to Point View Reserve. It’s a great place to run, good track and awesome stairs," says Vautvei.
Notes to Editor
- The 2017 Downer NRL Auckland Nines takes place on Saturday, 4 and Sunday, 5 February. This is the only rugby league event where fans can see all 16 NRL clubs over one weekend, featuring more than 288 star players in 31 action-packed games.
- For more information about the tournament, go to http://nrlaucklandnines.com/.
Recognition for Downer NRL Auckland Nines:
- 2016 Sports Business - Ultimate Medium Sports City Award
- 2015 NZAEP Best NZ Owned Major
- 2014 Sport NZ Innovation and Excellence
- 2014 Sports Business - Ultimate Sports City Award
- 2014 Sports Business - Best Home-grown Major Sporting Event