Life between trips

To do: Muriwai Beach (Black Sand Beach) There are several black sand beaches to choose from in Auckland. I decided on Muriwai because of the possibility of trying out the Muriwai Beach Horse Treks (keeping our options open despite the time constraints). Other alternatives are a walk to the Gannet colony and also the muriwai beach blow hole. Miriwai Beach - the black sand beach Upon arrival, we did almost nothing except for gazing at the sea from the carpark area. I didn't feel like venturing down as the winds are so strong that sand is blown in your face and even the waves that hit the beach are blown up and you can see droplets of water dancing across the beach. The beach itself is quite empty except for a brave lone para glider. You can see the person in the picture above. I really applaud him/her. The walk to the gannet colony also look quite treacherous as we need to walk quite near the beach with huge waves now and then before getting on the boardwalk. Timid me ...

To do: Day out at Waiheke Island We purchased the tickets that includes transport to island for both passengers and vehicle from Sealink and departure from Half Moon Bay Terminal. The trip to Waiheke Island is mainly drinking and eating. We hoped to visit some galleries and visit the Rangihoua Estate and join their olive tour but time is very tight and when we arrive the place is already closed. Fortunately, we still have have the wineries to visit which is nice and comfortable.  Man O'war Wineyards - 3.5 stars, mid-range 725 Man O War Bay Road Auckland 1971, New Zealand This is first winery we stopped when we reached the island. Initially, we wanted to browse a craft shop selling crockery. Maybe it was sunday and now being off season, the place was closed. So we head out to Man O'war as its the furthest from the port. The winery just opened when we reached. Do note that the drive is on a dirt track but its quite scenic. I like the sparkling wine on the ...

To do: Spellbound glow worm and cave tours 15 Waitomo Village Road, 3977, New Zealand There is 2 caves visited on this tour. The first is the cave of the spirit (Te Ana o te Atua), there are plenty of stalactites and stalagmites. Though in one of the larger section known as the cathedral you can see the glowworms dotting across the roof of the cave. In certain treachorous areas, you can see sink holes and how deep is the fall if you are unfortunate enough to slip through. After walking through the first cave, we had a short tea break before proceeding to the second cave.  The second is river cave where we need to take a raft. There is plenty of time to be mesmerized by the glow worms. Did you know? The glowworms are not affected by light nor sound. Its the vibrations that make them glow brighter. Photo credits to Spellbound Waitomo I enjoyed myself during this 3.5 hours tour. It can be so serene just quietly looking at the glow worms in a very dark room. This is o...