After a long 13 hour flight from Argentina we arrived early Tuesday morning to the sun rising in Auckland!

We got through customs and baggage very quickly and were soon whizzing our way across town to meet my parents and younger sister Aimee, who had arrived from UK the day before! After saying goodbye in London almost 2 months ago we were all very excited to see them, and the girls almost flew out the über to the outstretched arms of Granny and Grandad! Christmas can now begin!

We had a couple of hours before we could check into our joint Airbnb so we had a walk around the city harbour and got our first views of the skyline and iconic sky tower of this fabulous city! The skies were bright blue and the sun was shinning, what a welcome!

Now we are a party of seven we jumped in two uber taxis over to our new home.  For the next couple of days we are staying in the pretty residential area of Point Chevalier. A lovely modern house near a little beach and a great playground that the girls love!

After a bit of getting settled, stocking the fridge and some sandwiches for a late afternoon lunch, we decided to take a stroll down to the nearby beach which was busy with local families enjoying the cool waves and relaxing in the hot sun. The day sort of passed by with lots of talk of our adventures and catching up on news. We were all very tired and body clocks very confused so everyone turned in early! (The girls at 5pm!!!)

After a good nights sleep, we all woke (although a little early) more refreshed and ready to explore! We had a some breakfast and then had a quick walk down on the beach. The tide was way out leaving numerous rock pools behind each with its own exciting little sea world, crabs, little fish, all sorts of new shells, different from what we’ve seen of other beaches recently. The girls loved it especially the overhanging twisted trees that could now be reached and played on. Such a lovely start to the day!

We then decided to head out for the day to Waiheke island. Just half an hour away by ferry boat, this laid back island is a haven for wine lovers with many famous vineyards covering the lush hills.

We arrived at the island at the stunning Matiatia port with its jade green waters and sailing boats bobbing on the gentle waves, such a little paradise! We had bought tickets for the ‘hop on hop off’ bus so decided to jump on and head straight to onetangi beach, at the north side of the island. The journey took us past the cool coloured island homes, each one different from the next. Palm trees and lush plants lined the sides of the road and bright purple agapanthus grew up everywhere! So pretty!

When we stepped off the bus we were greeted with 2 kilometres of soft white sands and rolling waves in crystal waters! Wow wow wow! The girls played in the sea, built sandcastles and we all became avid beachcombers finding new  exciting shells and treasures along the shoreline. I think we’re all a little in love and I’m dreaming about island living!

After spending a bit of time on the beach we hopped back on the bus to the nearest vineyard and took shelter from the hot sun for a little wine and beer tasting, a very pleasant finish to a nice day!

We’re all now home, sun kissed, a little weary and I think perhaps a slower day is in order tomorrow!