Rangitoto Island
Today I went via ferry to Rangitoto Island. It was just about 20-30 minutes away. The island is situated in the Hauraki Gulf. It is a dormant volcano, which last erupted 600 year ago. The island is about 250m above sea level-almost the same height as the city’s Sky Tower, which I visited yesterday.
It took about a 1/2 hour to climb to the summit but unfortunately, it was quite cloudy and I did not get the spectacular view of Auckland I thought I was going to get. We then took a train/tractor through the Pohutukawa forest. The Pohutukawa is NZ’s Christmas tree. The whole island turns crimson when these trees flower. There were also lava trails and fern glens on the island. It was a nice day off the beaten track.
Me amongst the lava rocks:
![IMG_1398[1]](http://static.flickr.com/26/55509446_37bbab9fa1.jpg)
Okay, now here are some obervations I have made so far about Auckland:
-Every other person has a backpack.
-The McDonalds here is much nicer and has a million more choices than the one at home!!! (McCafe)
-I have seen every nationality but can count on one hand how many black people I have seen .
-There is no pollution in Auckland because there are no major industries. Tourism is the Big one for them. As a result, the air is so clean and fresh and cool, that I am exhausted by 9PM:)
-I have only met 2 Americans in the week I’ve been here so far-2 guys from California who are surfers. Most people I’ve met are English or Irish who are here on a working visa.
-All in all Auckland reminds me of New York, only cleaner.
Tags: 1
kris
October 19th, 2005 at 11:42 am
I hate you, I hate you, I hate you.
Can you feel the jealousy?
Hee hee.
Sounds like you’re having fun.
Living vicariously through you…
🙂
Kim
October 19th, 2005 at 3:03 pm
Goodday! (or is that just for Aussies?)
Anyway, I’m very jealous. You sound like you’re having a ball. I bet Auckland was beautiful. So… you met a cute guide and they’re looking for more guides for contiki! To quote a famous Dave we both know, “You better come back!”
It’s lonely here today because both Jon and Nora are gone (Nora should be back tomorrow) so no lunch partner. I do miss you and your wonderful laugh.
We’re all waiting here for Wilma — a Cat 5 hurricane (the strongest yet, so sayeth the news–boy they sure can scare you.) So, hope you’ll miss the “big one!”
I just got back from our trip to Cincinnati to see the lovebirds — Jim’s daughter and fiance are getting married next Saturday. We had fun! Had my doggie fix for quite a while — a dachsund and keeshond (don’t know how to spell that one) but both were barkers!
Can’t wait to read your next blog.
Barbara
October 19th, 2005 at 5:06 pm
Hi Kristen,
Your trip sounds great! I enjoy reading about all the sites everyday…we are all jealous of you so enjoy to the fullest!
October 19th, 2005 at 10:15 pm
Sheesh guys, I feel the love:)
Nah, nah nah nah nah…….