Monday, June 6 was a holiday. We work in the Area Office so when there is a holiday it is okay for us to to take a day off too.
We had an adventure to Rangitoto Island. We drove over to Devonport and loaded onto a ferry that took us over to the island.
There is a trek to the summit. It takes about an hour. The path is well-groomed. We started out a little fast but it was gradual and very interesting. Lava rock beds lined both sides of the trail with vegetation growing around the rock.
Rangitoto appeared as a volcano about 600 years ago. So the purpose of the trek is to reach the rim of the volcano - providing a 360 degree view!
The path eventually began to really climb - it was very steep and challenging. We made it to the top where we were able to rest and enjoy the view while we caught out breath.
It was a wonderful view. We could see several outlying islands, sailboats everywhere, Auckland skyline, the bridge to Auckland from Takapuna, the tall buildings by our office building, Takapuna Beach and Mount Victoria in Devonport to name a few of the sights.
It was windy and chilly but we warmed up with the hike. One interesting fact - there was a picture of the volcano about 200 years ago - totally barren. Now trees and foliage have grown up filling the volcano hole and covering much of the island. It's crazy how all those plants can grow amidst the lava rock. One of the main trees that covers the island is the Christmas tree. So from December to March the island is very beautiful with those trees in full bloom with their red blossoms.
The trek down was great and much faster. There is no running water on the island and no electricity. There are a few bach's left over from the late 1930's. If you go there to camp you have to get permission and haul in all your supplies.
We ferried back to Devonport. Enjoyed lunch at Manuka. I bought yarn at the Wild and Wooly yarn shop for a striped knitted afghan. It was a very enjoyable day!
