Whatipu

Our next stop was Whatipu Beach, at the dead end of a 7 km one lane gravel road, still within
Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. Cook suggested a 3 hour tramping loop of moderate difficulty.
However, we’re older, not in as good shape, carry a camera, and keep falling into the water! So
it took us almost twice as long, but thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. Again, well marked
and maintained clean trails, although sometimes finger-and-toe steep, with signs at every
intersection.






















































There were times we felt like Hobbits!






























A shorter tramp the next day took us along the black sand beach to a series of caves. The entire
island was created by volcanoes, so the rocks are black rather than tan, and grind down to black
sand instead of white. Slightly finer than the Indiana Dunes, but about as difficult to walk in
when dry. Great fun to roll down! (Why should Isaac have all the fun?)