Tramping Up a Storm

I like learning the vernacular of a new place. There are many Kiwi examples: bach (holiday home), westie (my personal fav - means white trash), and tramp. If you hear the word 'tramp' in North America, it would likely conjure an image of a woman who enjoys lots of extracurricular activities. But, here it means trekking or hiking. We did a lot of tramping around this past week. As I've mentioned before, Auckland is composed of many dormant volcanos which dot the city's skyline, and they make for a fun jaunt. Scott only worked 2.5 days last week (we love the laidback Kiwi lifestyle!), so we bought a hiking pack for G, slapped on some sunscreen (it was a beautiful week), and hit it.

First up, One Tree Hill (aka Maungakiekie) - the name is now a bit deceiving as it no longer has 'one tree' at the summit. A great pine tree stood here until the year 2000 when it was chopped down by Maori activists seeking revenge for the British hacking down a sacred totara (endemic NZ tree) in 1852. What can be found at the top of One Tree Hill now are amazing 360 degree views of the city and surrounding countryside, an obelisk to honour the Maori people, and lots and lots of sheep!

Mt. Eden (aka Maungawhau) - this is Auckland's highest cone. Again, the views at the summit are spectacular, and so too is the volcanic crater. It is an impressive structure, and one that is 'tapu' (in Maori meaning sacred) making it forbidden and disrespectful to enter it. No sheep here, but we did hang out with some chickens who were clucking around in the parking lot. It was all fun and games until a large husky snatched up one of the hens. Fortunately the owner was able to dislodge the bird (minus a few feathers) and it was still flapping when we drove away, so we're hoping it's no worse for the wear. I guess that's what happens when people leave their farm animals wandering in public places?!

Last, but not least: Rangitoto. We've been admiring this island off the coast of St. Heliers since we arrived. This is the youngest volcanic cone in the region, last erupting 600 years ago. It makes for a nice day trip from the city. So on Sunday, we packed The Peach, packed a lunch and caught the 12pm ferry. It is an hour hike to reach the summit where we were rewarded with more incredible views and a couple of tunnels to explore.