Under the Pohutukawa

The Pohutukawa is also called the Christmas tree as it blooms at Christmas, early in the summer.
Only a few flowers are left.
Lucky me.

Waiheke’s pioneer cemetery

Today I rode to the East Coast of Waiheke and on my way saw a little sign saying Waiheke Pioneer Cemetery. A narrow path snaking between trees away from the road.
So I park the scooter and walk into the forest.
A few minutes later the trees open up to what seems like a little garden in the forest. A few gated graves protecting stones dating back to the 18th century. Just when I want to head back to the road, the sun breaks through the clouds.

The shooter and the scooter

Today I took a ride on an electric scooter to visit Waiheke. It’s a strange experience to silent and only hear the whistling of the wind through my helmet.

There was some wind but it was a great day for shooting some pictures.

Also! I had my first foody moment at lunch today.

Good eats at Onetangi’s Charlie Farley’s.

I’m still a bit groggy but I think I made it through the worst of the 12hrs time difference with home. After landing in Auckland yesterday, getting a local SIM card and checking out about rental cars and ferry boats, I took the bus to the city center.
Hopping off at the top of Queenstreet I took the long way to the ferry. Along Queenstreet for the view from StKevin’s arcade on Karangape road, and then right, down to the tower and back to Queenstreet for a light lunch. (Side walks here are very suitcase-friendly 😁) Both a sentimental journey harking back to my 2008 visit and a leg-stretcher after over 24hrs sitting in planes.
The ferry took me to Waiheke, near Oneroa. I tried hitching a ride but without much energy so I ended up walking the mile up (!) to the village and to Bikes&Barbers to meet my friend.

I just made it through diner before collapsing and sleeping till the next morning.

Pre-travel Check list

Luggage - check
Travel clothing on - check
Tickets & passport - check
Hardware - check
I’m waiting for boarding !!!!!!!
Almost on my way 🙂
After a wonderful Christmas weekend and dad’s birthday with all, yes all, the family I’m on my way to New Zealand. Thank you to everyone for a great time and not the least for the lovely food!!!
So, I just logged in to set up the blog on my tablet. I remember I forgot to book the extension for my phone subscription to leave the EU.mlet me take care of that before they start the call for boarding.
See you at my next post.