Helen declared herself fit enough for the climb up Rangitoto so after a bit of morning, international, stress we left the boat and tied up the dinghy to the wharf.
The path to the summit was not too strenuous. Lower down it took us through lava fields where the vegetation was still struggling to take hold. Further up the soil had developed and the vegetation was more diverse.
Because we had left the boat a little late the weekend tourists had arrived. A lot of families were on the trail but we still got sections to ourselves. At the top is was a much busier as it was reachable most of the way by road so many people there had taken the easy way up.
From the top there were great views all around including over Auckland. quickly moved on from the crowded section and made our way around the crater and then onto the lava tubes on one side of the volcano. We had again forgotten our torch so we made our way through the main lava tube using the ranging light on our camera.
We made it back down in time for lunch. Helen’s foot was beginning to ache but not too badly and her back was ok. We had our lunch aboard and waited for the incoming tide to head into Auckland Harbour where we picked a spot to anchor and wait out the night. We ended up anchoring more or less opposite the Viaduct Marina where we’ll be heading today.
Once settled, and because there was no wind, we removed and packed the mainsail ready to take to Whangarei tomorrow.
This morning Helen’s back and foot both feel improved. The recent easing up appears to be working.
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