Windswept West - Auckland

The last day we spent in Auckland, we actually didn't stay in Auckland. We went to the Western beaches with friends. A good choice!
After a long brunch to catch up, we first drove up Mt. Eden to have a good view of Ackland. Then we headed west.

Rocky outcrops and stormy seas

Our first stop was Muriwai: a gorgeous beach. But the beach wasn't the main attraction, that was the gannet colony. We saw hundreds of them! Just centimetres apart, they nest on the rocky outcrops. They land right on top of their mate, since there's virtually no room in between then nests. A boardwalk allows for good views ( and sniffs) of the colony. The air above is very busy too, sometimes an arriving gannet almost hits you in the head.

A spacious spot near the boardwalk

After the gannets, it was time for beers and snacks, before heading out to the next beach. After driving down a long and winding road, we parked the car, to walk the last bit. We were amazed how green everything was, no hint that we were approaching a beach until we stood on the black volcanic sand.

Karekare beach south view

We had arrived at Karekare beach. We ware just amazed by the feel of the place. We knew there were other people here, but is still felt desolate, pure and wild.
And a bit of trivia: this is where scenes of the famous movie The Piano were filmed. Don't miss this one if you're in Auckland.

Karekare beach north view

After a walk on Karekare beach we headed for today's final beach: rugged Piha beach. This beach is known for its strong and unpredictable rip currents. So dangerous are they, that a reality tv show Piha Rescue, airs the frequent rescues the lifeguards here do.

Lion Rock at Piha beach

Once down, we clambered over the rocks to the second bay, where we watched the sunset over The Gap. Due to an optical illusion it seems that the water level outside is way higher than at the beach side. Every time a wave rolls in, it looks as if the bay is going to flood. Luckily it didn't. After sunset we went back for a quick dinner and our last night in Auckland.

Sunset at the Gap