Waiheke Day 1

I woke up this morning to this view, hubby still snoring his way through the jetlag.

I trotted off for a morning jog/walk, rapidly melting in the humidity and puffing my way up the hills. Definitely no urge for a red faced selfie, but some great scenery photo opportunities.







After all that effort, a very yummy breakfast with a view.

After breakfast we hit the tourist trail in the car, driving to the ‘Far End’ in the east of the island along an unsealed, dusty road with spectacular views.

In the 18th century, Captain Cook ‘discovered’ this area and in particular the valuable timber from the Kauri trees (now protected). Man O’War Bay became the centre where giant trees were hauled out to supply masts for British Navy ships. Not many trees left here now..

Obviously we were in search of a vineyard and the Man O’War Sauvignon - grapefruit, lime and spring grass allegedly.

Wooden benches have been put by the side of the road where there is an amazing view and there were quite a few.

Interestingly, there were lots of houses for sale in the middle of nowhere - maybe isolation is overrated?

After a bit of afternoon chilling/overheating on the balcony, we walked into Oneroa for dinner. My navigation took us via the ‘scenic route’ ie hot hills which wasn’t well received by hubbykins - oops again.

My guide book says ‘Waiheke has some excellent eateries and, if you’re lucky, the views will be enough to distract from the hole being bored into your hip pocket’. The view was impressive, the bill was hefty and this seagull fancied the food..

Huge thanks to eldest daughter aka Trashpot, for recommending this island - it’s simply beautiful.