Western Auckland

Day started well with a walk and luggage arriving.

The last time I went to a black sand beach was in a blizzard in Iceland. It was a little warmer this time around.

First stop was the Arataki visitor centre.

When we flew into Auckland the previous day we both loved the view of the landscape we could see to the left of the plane, we were now in the middle of it.

Then further along some interesting roads to Kirakira. First to the waterfall

Then onto the beach. With the hot black sand.

Then more great roads and rain forest to Piha

After the tourist stop for the overview of Lion Rock

It was a walk in the bush to the KiteKite falls.

then a quick stop on the beach

Then back into town.

Truly unbelievable area at the edge of Auckland and I found it far more interesting than the city.