Been awhile since I have written anything. I'll attribute this to a busy work schedule, lots of social goings on, school holiday and a trip overseas, and more recently illness that has sacked this house. I think maybe a more unconscious reason is the reality that the end is near--in under two weeks we leave NZ, and this is having a crushing effect on me. Lots to process after this amazing year, not the least of which is that I feel I have found my true home on this Island, in this town, on the ocean, amongst these Kiwis.
SO, here is a brie update of the past month. Early on, seizing one last opportunity to get away sans kids, my mate Michele and I took off on a Friday north to Waiheke Island for a weekend. Her friends have a small place there we could use and the weather looked good for a weekend of exploration.
Waiheke is roughly 1 hour by ferry from Auckland, easy getaway for the city folk, and clearly there is a big commuter scene. reminded be a bit of the islands off of Seattle. Island living is a bit slower, more low key, takes some effort so for those wanting to be a bit away, and makes for a great weekend getaway. Home to only 8,000 residents year round, it is a nice mix of cute towns with the requisite shops, cafes, gelato stands and some more open areas for vineyards and farming. We came equipped with bikes and paddle boards so ready for anything.
Saw this license plate just before we left, LOVED it! After spending a bit of time on a dairy farm (my next career I've decided!!) there is no better description!
After easy 2 hour drive and thanks to google maps, we arrived at the ferry terminal. Small ferries here, not quite the crowds we are used to I guess. Lucky to have a beautiful day for sailing, great views of Auckland and surrounding islands!
Turns out we arrived here the weekend of the World Cup Semifinals. Captivated by the competition, drama and sport, we had to take in the matches before we could venture out. We started on bikes, off to the farmer's market-sweet little small town thing. Some nice handmade goods and honey and meats, along with all sorts of junk.
Here is one of the many lovely bays we encountered while riding along. Lots of scenes like this. obviously there is lots of money put into 2nd homes here.
The island offers many walks and trails, this one we like particularly for its name! Once tranquil, we were able to continue on to some spectacular views of awesome homes and vistas.
I've become kind of obsessed by the idea of container living, so compact, easy and one can be so creative with them. we came upon this building site were workers were obviously living in these containers while home was underway. Can't imagine the views, 360 gorgeous ocean all around! There was a BBQ and outdoor eating area set up in between the two. Really thinking how cool it would/will be to stick a container in the backyard and either make it the man cave for all teenage stinky boys, or perhaps the adult retreat when life gets to crazy….
Another tramp through town to the vineyards and down to the shore. Rainbows out as we encountered a bit of rain this afternoon.
Also lots of public art all around the place. Here is Michele stopping for what looks like a toilet break, but really just a rest of a moment on this brick chair. Really appreciate a town that puts money and time and effort into such public aesthetics!
And if you don't want to live in a container, how about have your business in one? This gelato stand was a highlight of the island! Not only was I schooled in the reality of gelato (being milk based it has less fat than ice cream, and much less percentage of AIR whipped into it so a denser, richer texture and flavor!) but the container rocked! Owner had it specially outfitted so the doors opened as you can see below, he outfitted it with fridge, coffee maker, freezer, and then painted it the lovely colors. Turns out there is a Gelato University in Melbourne one can learn all the tricks of making the frozen treat. How about that for a degree. It's on my bucket list now!
They served great coffee as well and I don't even like the stuff!
Wind died down 2nd day we were there so after watching Netherlands beat Costa Rica, we went out for the most lovely paddle. Took off from this bay, first down the coast to the right and then back and out to a point far off to the right. we were out for a good 2 hours, oogling at homes that hung to cliffs, rolling with the swells, feeling the sun on our backs (yes, this is midwinter!!). It was one of the best days in a long time!
and finally on a last minute bike ride before catching the ferry, we rode past this paddock where I saw the first lambs of the season. Born most likely that very morning, they were a sweet reminder of the coming of Spring and what we encountered upon our arrival 11+ months ago. We have come full circle...
And of course the pukeko! Such a comical bird!
