Meola Reef

Day 123, Friday 22 December 2017.

Meola Reef is a lava flow extending from the Auckland isthmus out into the Waitematā Harbour. It was formed when Mount St John erupted about 28,000 years ago, but until recently it was thought to have been formed by the eruption of Three Kings at about the same time, because the lava flow was covered by the subsequent eruption of Mt Eden.

Although it was a rubbish tip for a long time, it has been cleaned up and turned into a park, mainly used by dog owners. In the section which allows dogs off leash, I saw many dogs of diverse sizes running happily around together. I’m not a dog person, but dogs need to have fun as well as exercise, so this was a pleasant sight. In the areas where dogs are supposed to be on a leash, I saw a few dogs running free, but they were under control by their owners.

Today was hot, but breezes coming off the harbour made my wander around this area comfortable.

Traffic is building today as people finish work early and head out of Auckland for their Christmas/New Year holiday. I’m glad not to be going long distance today.