Day 23 - Auckland CBD to Oruarangi Reserve

 Back on the trail!!

After a break back in Morrinsville (Karl attending the Raglan SoundSplash 3-day music festival) we travelled via the Te Huia train from Hamilton to Auckland. Sandie transported us across in time to catch the 6.05.

Once in Auckland the streets were alive with the 9am thrum of traffic and construction. All quietened as we threaded our way through the domain. The museum, a commanding presence on the hilltop ahead. 

An ascent of Mt Eden and the urban landscape lay out before us in panoramic view. The volcanic crater held no messages made from rocks like it used to. ‘No entry’ signs took care of that. It reminds me of the book by Maurice Gee called ‘Under the Mountain’. One of the twins throwing their stones into Mt Eden crater and one into Rangitoto. I may just have to read that book again. 

Before long we were walking through what used to be ACE = Auckland College of Education. A.k.a teachers college. Sadly, the University who took it over some years ago has now abandoned it and are looking for a buyer. Everything looked run down. But the memories of lectures and social times were still clear for me.

Next stop was Cornwall Park. Not a great deal has changed except, traffic doesn’t go up One Tree Hill any longer. More space for walkers etc.

Through Royal Oak and Mangere, then across the SH1 Motorway using a footbridge. Out to the fringe of the Manukau Harbour until we rested at Oruarangi Reserve. 

Here Mark collected us after his work at Mainfreight nearby. Another stay at the flat was much appreciated. Tomorrow we will have an early start and Mark will get us back to the same location.