Susan's Travel Sagas

35 minute ferry ride to Waiheke Island past Rangitoto Island that was resulted from a volcanic eruption about 600 years ago and then a 1 1/2 hour guided bus tour. The island is inhabited by 8000 people and is known for some of its wineries and olive oil producers. There are several small communities, but half the island is quite rural. After the tour, I visited two wineries for some lovely wine tasting. Cable Bay, a more contemporary style of wine, and Mudbrick. The setting were beautiful on high hills surrounded by vineyards and sheep with a view of Auckland in the distance. Once back in Auckland, I found this place called Elliot's Stables for dinner. It is an upscale food court with several restaurants - creperie, bruschetteria, and tapas (where I ate). Then back to the hotel and getting everything in order for the next day's departure.