We left the Coromandel Peninsula in the hope of a good sail to Waiheke Island and it was to start with. Unfortunately the wind dropped off about half way across so we had to motor the rest of the way.

Our first anchorage was off the main village of Oneara and it was a nice change to be able to walk ashore to shops, cafes and restaurants and enjoy a lunch ashore as well as beautiful walks along the coastal path. The wind changed direction overnight and we had to move around to another bay. However, this bay also had paths going into town and around the coast to lovely viewpoints. There are some stunning properties here.

It has been really hot the last few days and swimming has become an enjoyable way to cool off. The sea is definitely warming up. The weather has been beautiful with clear skies and a pleasant breeze. We had a magical night when Venus and Jupiter were setting close together, the sky was a mass of stars and the sea was like a mirror image as it was sparkling with phosphorescence.

The island is very pretty. It is currently a mass of flowers and is a sensory delight, with agapanthus, honeysuckle, wild roses, jasmine, flowering trees etc. all contributing to the scent and colour. The island also has many vineyards and olive groves and produces a wide range of different wines as well as olive oil.

Our pretty bay was fairly empty when we arrived, but Friday night everything changed as boats started arriving from Auckland for the weekend, by Saturday the bay was crowded and by Sunday evening it was empty again. The island is under an hour by fast ferry from Auckland and a lot of people also come across by ferry to enjoy the island and its vineyards. We hadn't really realised how close we were until we walked the coastal path the other direction and suddenly were looking between some islands right across to Auckland - quite a wonderful view.

On Sunday we booked a meal at one of the vineyards - Mud Brick Vineyard. We went ashore at 10 am and did a circular walk along coast and hills to arrive, very hot and very thirsty at 1p.m. The vineyard had a stunning view with sea on all sides and looking across the Auckland. The food was absolutely fabulous - as good as the best London restaurants and a lot cheaper, and grew all its own herbs and vegetables. The wine was very good as well. We had quite a long walk back, and were glad to throw ourselves in the sea when we got back to the boat. Back to reality tomorrow as we sail to the marina at Gulf Harbour and start work on the boat.