It's Spring! (so let's get out of the house)

Well, after a rainy, cold winter it is finally Spring here is Aotearoa. Spring technically "sprung" on September 1st, but it has still been pretty chilly/windy/rainy so it hasn't felt much different. This weekend was an especially nice one with beautiful weather both days allowing for typical spring-like activities.

Saturday we woke up early (6:30!) and took the fairy to Rangitoto Island. Rangitoto is the largest and youngest volcano in Auckland at 600 years old and is now extinct. There are several hiking tracks that go around the base and over the top. We had pre-planned out about a 4 hour hike to the summit. When we left it was really cold so I was dressed warm, but later regretted it as the sun assaulted me while I hiked up a freakin' volcano... We had gotten off the ferry with several other groups and of course everyone is doing about the same hike; so to avoid the irritating tourists (remember, we're locals now :)...) and get some peace we had to work our butts off to get ahead of them. Once we were away from the pack Amazing Race style, it was so peaceful and we really got to enjoy nature. Plus, we were not visible by anyone else so I could strip down to minimum layers to try to cool down without judgement of my non-sixpack :). Some trails were like roads, other parts were more of the fun, through the forest kind, which provided much needed shade. When we finally got to the top, boy was it worth the pain...and I do mean pain. When we finally got home at 2pm we were le tired.

Will at the start of the hike. Doesn't he look like a college kid going to class?

Only a little bit left of the climb, but already a great view!

Exploring the caves created by lava flow

Ta Da! The summit. You can see the Auckland skyline over my shoulder and the rest of the Hauraki Gulf. 

That's what we hiked!! Wowza!

Sunday after church we decided to go to the North Shore and spend some time chillin on the beach. There are about 28 beaches in the Auckland metro area. Not bad, ay? We just hung out and read while watching people wind surf, kayak, fish and swim, wishing we knew how to do water sports or had a friend with a boat. It was warm enough to lay out in a swimsuit, but not quite warm enough to get in the cold water unless you are under the age of 10). It was a really great day!

Narrow Beach

Oh, hello. It's just us, hanging out at the ocean Sunday after church.  

Don't be alarmed by Will's incredibly cut, tan, chest muscles :)

After the beach we drove up a smaller volcano with another spectacular view of the city.

At the top of North Head

We are definitely starting to enjoy more time outside with Spring here. I expect more beach days a BBQs as the Spring progresses. Can't wait for summer when we can actually get in the water!

Cheers mates!