Blogs from Waiheke Island, Auckland, North Island, New Zealand, Oceania - page 2

We made an impulse decision this morning to do the Auckland Bridge Bungeewhich was really cool. The walk under the bridge has nice views over the harbour. The water is just so clean and clear, quite impressive for an industrial port. The 4 of us leapt out over the water where just minutes later a pod of dolphins swam through. Wayne even enjoyed the walk, as a spectator he got a taste of the bridge climb. The boys dropped Tash and I at the ferry where we caught the 11am Waiheke Explorer Tour ($49 includes the ferry $35 plus all day bus pass $9 plus an island tour). Waiheke is beautiful - every cove and bay and hill a picture postcard view. Although our tour guide Glen didn't seem to approve we abandoned our tour at ... read more

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 ... read more

We've spent 5 days on Waiheke now. Enough to know it's New Zealand's best kept secret!! Check out the photoes and you'll see why.... read more

Waiheke Island is based 30minutes from Auckland by ferry. Its known for the shire quantity of vineyards. After getting into the harbour you can immediately see mountain bike hire rentals, van and car rental companies and scooter hire to get around the island. We hired a mountain bike which I only recommend for the most fittest of people or the most insane people. Reason I say this is that we rented the bikes and didn't quite realise how steep the island can be. The journey from one winery to another after having a tasting session at each place just takes it out of you. I would not recommend hiring a bike that's for sure but the Island is well worth a visit if you are ever in Auckland. The tasting sessions are very informal and each ... read more

We were planning to head back to New Zealand one last time to see a few things we’d missed, to catch up with some friends and also to meet up with Colin and Roberta, Kat’s Dad and Stepmother. We flew into Christchurch and picked up the rental car and found a place to spend the night, as it was already rather late. Christchurch is still badly affected by the February earthquake with the CBD still closed and lots of derelict buildings and empty plots where houses once stood. That night the earth moved again when another earthquake, this time a 4.9 shook our hostel. There was no damage and it only lasted a few seconds but it was a rather eerie experience and we were rather relieved to be leaving the following morning. We next found ... read more