Nau mai, Auckland tornados and Coromandel Peninsula

Nau mai is Welcome in Mauri language and the native New Zealander's have been very welcoming and provided wonderful tips and directions along the way. Auckland has quite a mix of Mauri, Chinese/Asian and Indian/Fijian Indian along with the European settlers. It's no different from the melting pot of major Australian cities and there is always plenty of choice for food, especially up the top end of town at the hilliest part of Collins street.

Wild rosé everywhere but stunning

The metro bus or train is easy to use but interestingly the trains are pused or pulled along by diesel locomotives, no electric trains here. Auckland is a big city with a large wharf promenade and interesting maritime exhibits. I actually arrived the same day as the tornado but found shelter in a campsite south and east from the tornado. I recently avoided large bush fires in Tasmania so I hope no volcanoes erupt in NZ as I head south soon.

My little hobbit hole in the forest

At the moment I am travelling through the stunning Coromandel Peninsula which is about one and a half hours driving south east of Auckland, or in my case a good day's ride but worth it.

Riding north up the Coromandel Peninsula

Across the top - up and over the mountains

It reminds me very much of Vancouver Island due its rugged coastline with weathered pine trees clinging to the rocks and ancient forests coming right down to the water line. Aucklanders head for this space just like Canberrans takeover Bateman's Bay for the weekend and holidays.

Tonight's meal - Fish and chips at Hot Water beach.

Tonight' music - Scubert's 'Death and the Maiden'

 

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