Island Life

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We've been having such a great time here on Waiheke. Yesterday we had the most amazing walk, starting at the Onetangi sports club on O'Brien Road, crossing the peninsula to tale us to coastal bays with a view to Auckland. We stopped for lunch at the world famous Te Whau vineyard and restaurant. Then continued our walk to Rocky bay, where we caught the bus back. This walk has unbelievable scenery. The weather was perfect, totally clear blue skies, but with a cool breeze. We had panoramic views over Rocky bay, Te Whau point, inland parts of Western Waiheke and to Auckland. This is a secluded part of the island. We had a serene excursion through mature coastal forest and vineyards. Savouring the amazing fare of Te Whau- excellent food and wine.



We've explored many other parts of the island too and have joined the golf club. A challenging first 9, will try 10 to 18 (on the same land but with their own pins) at some other time. Marshy rivers and birds like the Pukeko dot the landscape of the course make it easy to lose balls. They also have a great cafe which does jazz on a Sunday night after a round or two...

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Photos

Onetangi beach
Early morning

O'Brien Road
Wetlands -Raupo

First view of Te Whau
Aucklnd in a haze

Te Whau vineyard
Such a steep hill!

Before lunch
Te Whau Cab/ Merlot 2007

Pudding
Had to have a dessert wine (Cloudy Bay late harvest Riesling)

Coastal view
Walking off lunch