Scenic | John Kidde Writes

Yes, “quick” is in quotation marks. Why, you may ask? Because it wasn’t such a quick trip. Doi.

From the CBD, Central Business District, of Auckland up to the Bay of Islands it was about a 3.5 hour drive. Our idea of a “quick” trip up north was quickly (there’s that word again) dashed. Nevertheless, we pressed on. We were determined to see some more of the country, outside of the most popular spots.

The drive was very beautiful. There were rolling green hills, scenic vistas, and numerous roundabouts. This country, they love their roundabouts. As someone who had only ever driven on the right side of the road, driving on the left was initially daunting but once I got the feel for it (and the turn signal and windshield wipers being on the opposite sides of the steering column) I was as cool as you like.

Did I once get pulled over for speeding but was then let off with a warning and told to spend the money, that would’ve been on the ticket, in town at a local shop? Who can say.

After driving for a long time, we decided that it would be best to actually find someplace to go as opposed to just inputting “Bay of Islands” into the GPS. We exited the main road, found a little marina to park at and we looked up someplace to go.

After some searching we decided to set out to Opito Bay. It was close by and there looked to be a trail we could walk to get a view of the water and islands. Because at this point, we needed to get out of the car for a bit, take in some scenery, and breathe in that fresh sea air.

At Opito Bay there was a small car park right next to the water and people’s homes (jealous!). From the car park it was an easy hike up a well-maintained trail to the Tareha Point Scenic Lookout. On our way up, and down for that matter, we saw a few of the local residents on their daily walk on the trail. I mean, I would be out there too if I lived there.

That video is from the near end of the trail to the lookout point. It was, as you can see, stunning. The weather was in full cooperation that day and we could see for miles and miles.

This will turn into Instagram for a hot minute as I show you what we saw.

Just, wow. Right?

After seeing some of the other natural wonders New Zealand has to offer, it was nice to visit a place that was not as crowded. This is truly the place to check out if you want to get away from the city. There are numerous islands and spots that we did not have time for but are keen on visiting on our next go around.

Thank you for visiting, and I will see you next time!

A Bite and A Site

Today I am going to take you two two places in Auckland. One is for eating. The other is for…ok you can eat at the other place too but it doesn’t serve food as it’s an art installation so it’s mainly for looking.

Anyway!

The two places are The Kimchi Project and The Lighthouse.

Sandwiched between Kitchener St and Queen St (on Lorne St to be precise) is The Kimchi Project. A delightful spot that, like the Tardis, is bigger on the inside.

There are a number of restaurants on the block that look inviting but STAY THE COURSE and head here.

Once inside, if you’re lucky, you’ll be taken to the back patio. It’s inclosed and feels like you’ve stepped into a different building entirely. Gone are the solid walls and ceiling. Say hello to glass and palms and mood lighting!

The menu has something for everyone. Even those of us who are not as inclined to venture away from burgers and pizza. Ok, I’ll admit, I did get the shoestring fries ALONG WITH the Korean fried chicken. In my defense the fries were delicious! And seasoned with onion powder. I mean, come on!

It’s a great spot nestled away in the city but we’ll worth you time.

From one part of the city to the other.

I enjoy art. I even took three levels of Art History while I was in college. Am I a snob about it? Noooo. But I hate, strike that. I loathe pretentious pieces of art. Convey your emotions, your setting, or GTFO. Stop duct taping bananas to a wall for crying out loud. That’s not art.

I digress. The Lighthouse is an actual house located at the end of a dock in Auckland Harbour. Walk past the Ferry Building and The Cloud and you’ve made it there.

From a distance, in the daylight, it doesn’t look like much. But once you get closer you can see why you’re there. I don’t view this piece as pretentious. It’s fun and inviting.

Inside the house is a statue and on the walls surrounding it are thin wisps of neon lights. The neon reflects nicely off the statue and it’s surroundings, offering a lovely contrast and, at times, a stark image.

You can freely walk around the house and even to the second floor where you can get a different view of the installation. Also, you can’t beat the view from the end of the dock. Take in some culture and the scenic vista. It’s a win-win.

Until next time. Make it a great week!

John Kidde Writes

tales of intrigue & extreme adventure from a worldly guy

Tag Archives: Scenic

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