Overseas. Sort of.

 

Two hours from home to destination, mostly spent on two separate boat trips - that counts as travel, doesn’t it? It does for me these days, anyway, even if I didn’t actually leave the city limits. The second half was especially enjoyable, from Auckland CBD to Hobsonville Point, because not only were conditions just perfect (see above), but I had the whole ferry entirely to myself. Very regal. I actually said “Thank you, my good man” to a crew member as I disembarked. I hope he realised I was joking. 

I was there for partly personal, partly professional, reasons. I’ve read that city-dwellers rend to hang around during the Christmas-New Year period, making the most of the relative peace and quiet, only heading off on their proper hols when the popular spots have settled down a bit. Makes sense, in Auckland, since it’s summer, after all.

So, how should they perk up their weekends? How about popping across the harbour to Hobsonville for a taste of the future? I really mean that: it’s a former Air Force base, still with plenty of reminders in the form of huge hangars, and a cluster of gorgeous wooden villas built for the staff - obviously, the officers’ quarters being very much a step above.

Now, though, it’s all about the future: stylish apartment blocks with lots of communal spaces like gardens, parks and playgrounds. The residents really like it there, out along the walkways with their kids and dogs, and full of friendly greetings. Lots of shops and eateries, a brewery, outdoor art, trees and water features… Plus it’s got the harbour on three sides, where it’s quiet with lots of birds. Nice.

Read the story here: https://nzmcd.co.nz/destinations/auckland/tiny-towns-hobsonville/