Mount Manaia

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This enormous lump of volcanic stuff sits at the entrance to Whangarei harbour, and today we all thought we'd walk up it. It wasn't such hard work, as the path goes all round the hill, snaking up as it goes, a bit like a helter skelter. It took 1 and a half hours to the top, and I have to say that the nimblest and fittest in our party were the oldest, who reached both the top and the bottom first - though as you'll see, George fortified himself before we left the car! we took our picnic to the beach, and after lunch took a relaxing swim, before ice creams and home again. Tonight, Robyn says she's at home to receive birthday gifts, as most of the family (ie. sons!) will have gone home tomorrow.

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Photos

that's what it looked like
from the car park - but were we daunted? certainly not.

George's secret recipe
to aid the quick ascent of mountains.

starting
at the bottom of the hill.

the entrance
had a kind of archway. There was also a memorial to all the staunch MEN who'd landed there so long ago - the women were obviously wimps!!!

half way lookout
Robyn and Joe take a look at the view. well worth the climb.

the view
across the bush was splendid - like being in that little plane from Auckland!

Are you there?
well, nearly. Still a bit of climbing to do.

going up!
through the bush

what a view
looking towards the harbour entrance and the Pacific.

different angle -
same place!

at the top
notice the oil refinery in the background!

Comments

[Sue O'Brien]

WOW
The view looks fabulous from the top but I don't know if I would be fit enough to make the climb!! Happy Birthday to Cousin Robyn too!!! Love sue