Driving the Waterfront

Driving the waterfront out towards Mission Bay always lifts my spirits.  It's a lovely drive.  I like to do it slow and soak in the sights - which is largely lots of water off to my left insterspersed with joggers, bike riders and waterfront walkers.

These warm afternoons with daylight saving are perfect for a drive along the waterfront, a walk on the beach and a glass of wine at a cafe or, better yet, chips on the beach.

It's been a few years since I undertook a waterfront drive right to the end of the road up to Ladies Bay.  I wondered how the old nudist beach was doing.

The beach is still there, though not as nice as I remember it.  There's a concrete path down to it now and, to really put a damper on naked sunbathing, there's a veiwing bay above the beach.   It's part of a beautifully designed rest spot with great views out toward Waiheke -  and down to Ladies Bay.

The viewing bay at Archilles Point.

A glass of wine was required (with a bit of a snack) to contemplate the cost of progress, so I stopped at the local shops in St Heliers, Annabelles to be precise, and enjoyed a quiet moment on a lovely afternoon.

The conclusion - I still love driving the waterfront and intend to come back soon.

Devonport Tiki Tour

I did a tiki tour to Devonport the other day.

My original plan of heading in to Auckland central changed due to bad weather and a king tide blocking the harbour bridge.  Being stuck in traffic is not my idea of a great way to spend my time, so a Plan B was sought and implemented.

Devonport is where I like to go for a red wine while looking out to sea.  It's also where one can catch the ferry when the bridge ain't working.  It used to have the best fish and chip shop in Auckland...I have to find another one now.

Devonport Wharf

The town clock

View of naval ships 

The local

The day may have been a little grey and windy but I enjoyed my wonder around.  My Plan B tiki tour reminded how nice Devonport is and how long I've been away.