Even though we are living in a big city, it is very easy to check out some beautiful places within and very close to Auckland. This is a view from Rangitoto Island with downtown in the background, Devonport in the foreground, and Takapuna on the far right. Auckland is known as the 'city of sails' and some of the locals have said it is best appreciated from the water.
Long Bay Reserve is 30 mins north of Takapuna.
Tawharanui (pronounced Taf-rah-new-eee) Reserve is 1.5 hours north of Takapuna. It is a peninsula off the east coast, with some amazing sea cliff views and a beautiful surf beach. Like many reserves, it has been designated as a protected 'pest free' area. It is gated to keep out rodents and allow the indigenous animals/birds to recover - especially the Kiwi Bird, which sadly is declining in numbers. Long ago farmers introduce the rodents to this country to help deal with their growing rabbit population but unfortunately the rodents have become predators for the kiwi birds (and the rabbits continue to reproduce rapidly as is expected!). It is a very popular place to camp and surf in the summer being so close to Auckland. These are our 'winter shots'.
Often Reserves incorporate farmers fields so the trail passes by grazing sheep and cattle. There are more sheep than people in New Zealand! New Zealand is a top exporter of milk, cheese and of course lamb.
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