Takapuna and Lake Papuke

High school field right below us

Skyline of Auckland from our apartment

Well it is our first full week in Auckland and we are somewhat settled. I say that rather tentatively. Having been through this once before certainly helps, yet there is a lot to assimilate, customs to learn, peoples names to remember, a case load to manage, driving habits to acquire, and a  rigorous schedule to maintain. I am learning to be patient with myself.  It is coming!

Of course there some conditions we will have no difficulty adjusting to; the climate for one. It is marvelous! Our apartment is ideal. We have a splendid view of the Auckland skyline and plenty of green space where I jog every morning (my stress reducer). Work, shopping, restaurants and a beautiful beach are within walking distance. We have use of a car, transit is free locally for seniors, for which we qualify, and the service looks good!  People are friendly, birds are everywhere and it is clean and green!

The Taylor's, the wonderful couple we are replacing, who were also with us in Germany, took us on a drive south to see the countryside and to overlook some impressive beaches. This will likely become common fare as I know there any number of beaches within a short distance of Auckland. I would describe the countryside, at least here, as rough and rolling given  its volcanic origins and over laid with a rich variety of sub tropical trees and plant life. Within the Auckland area there is evidence of at least five volcanic upheavals.  I will share more about these and others as time passes as it is something that interests me.

Lake Pupuke

On our fourth or fifth day we went to a Thai restaurant near our apartment. We are near the north end of Lake Pupuke or the narrow neck of land which you see to the left. It is a heart shaped freshwater lake which filled after a volcanic explosion crater. In fact it was the fresh water springs that were likely the catalyst for its explosive beginnings. It is called a maar probably from the french word mare meaning sea. From what I read, the heart shape is a result of two craters - a large one forming most of the lake and a smaller one forming the arm in the northeast. It is on this narrow arm where we stood separated from the ocean by about 200 meters. We stood at the highest point which is probably only 20 meters above sea level. Not a place to stand if a tsunami were to strike! The lake is about 4.5 kilometres in circumference and approximately 57 meters deep.  We watched what appeared to be dragon boats and racing skiffs out practising. Understandably the New Zealanders love their water.