Shore Life

The change in Takapuna's development while I've been away is pretty remarkable. While it still retains element of its laid back shore scene, there has been a massive proliferation of bars, cafes, restaurants. Along Hurstmere Road the amount of establishments that are devoted to putting something downs ones throat is amazing.

Here's a shot of a the new Shore, with its bar culture now well embraced.

Next drink...

Takapuna Beach

While visiting Auckland I took the camera down Takapuna Beach one calm spring evening. It was a beach that I'd grew up around so it was great fun to return with a camera to get a for shots for nostalgia.

Looking south down to the Clifton Road end. I quite like the way the crumbling white cliffs march off in the distance.

Looking from the boat ramp back across the curve of Takapuna Beach.

Hercues Morse, as big as a horse, off for a walk with a stick. Its a great beach for dogs, who as always, are as odd as their owners.

More shots here.

Lucy on a Train

Lucy on the train to Johnsonville.  The kids really love the novelty factor of trains, so sometimes to fill in an afternoon we pack them on the train, have a play at the play ground at the other end, ice cream then back on the train home again.

The Girdlestone

The Girdlestone, on Mt Ruapehu, in a threatening mood.

School Holiday Ski Week

Some shots of Amelia and Lucy in the snow over the school holidays. Amelia and Lucy up bright and early one frosty morning.

Lucy practicing some of here slope style attitude.

 On the snow. Lucy's first day on skis. Amelia has taken up a spot of ski coaching before heading off on her own for a session while I teach Lucy.

Lucy did pretty well for her first week on skis. She managed to stand up balance and ski unaided by herself on her first day. She wasn't so keen on Dad giving the directions however. Nor being told how to stop. She's more a point it straight down the fall line type of girl.

Autumn Leaves

Autumn leaves on the back lawn.

Waitarere Beach

This weekend we travelled up to Waitarere Beach to spend some time out of town. It was a gloomy winter weekend but the wild west coast beach was welcomely remote.

 On Saturday morning, in a quick gap in clouds the sun managed to peak through making for some rich autumn light on the driftwood.

 The kids enjoyed running wild and playing on the driftwood.

Probably the most amusing aspect was that the accommodation we stayed in. It was an 100 year old church that had been converted to a bach. Complete with organ and roaring fire it was a comfortable way to spent time next to stormy beach.  There is always something about going to bed with the surf rolling in your ears.

More shots here.