Waitangi Day is today in my native Aotearoa otherwise known as New Zealand. Aotearoa is te reo, or Maori for Land of the Long White Cloud. The long weekend is in honour of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi which was the founding document of our nation. Like all countries who were colonized, ours too is fraught with issues yet to be resolved, I am hopeful that we will get there eventually.
Our city was founded approximately 175 years ago when Ngati Whatua, the local iwi (tribe), gifted land to the crown with the idea of establishing the city to be the capitol of New Zealand. That didn’t eventuate but it has become our nations biggest city.
When back in Auckland, this is one of my favourite local spots to walk. On days like today, it is particularly beautiful and I feel very fortunate to live 5 mins away from such a stunning view. At times being back in an urban / suburban environment can be a little overwhelming. However being able to get a daily nature fix makes you appreciate the city’s positive aspects.
Churchill Park is also on my loop. It is a farm park in the middle of Glendowie / St Heliers that is great for being surrounded by trees and greenery. Gradually the locals have been re-establishing the wetlands there and replanting native shrubs and trees. Careful pest eradication has allowed the bird population to flourish. A cute little clip of Piwakawaka / Fantails can be seen here on my instagram.
These lovely places help me to find my center while being back in the city again. I love being able to see more of my family and Auckland friends while being back for the Summer season, however I do miss the wildness of National Park and Ruapehu to pieces.
Where are your favourite places to get nature fixes?
ellaquaint 