Manukau Heads Lighthouse
Part two of my Canada Day weekend involved heading out of Auckland and driving along the stunning Awhitu Peninsula. Classed as a part of Manukau Citys' 'South Auckland' there is much to love about this coast line, and do you want to know the best part? It has nothing to do with an overcrowded city or its housing troubles! As soon as you take the Drury exit, your treated with far quieter roads and much prettier scenes.
At the very end of the Peninsula is the Manukau Heads Lighthouse. It is one of the few lighthouses in New Zealand that is open to the public. Originally built in 1874, the lighthouse has been well looked after and provides panoramic views of the where the calm Manukau Harbour meets the wild Tasman Sea. It also marks the place of New Zealand's worst shipping disaster - which you can learn about reading the historical plaques set out.
Navy disasters aside, watching the waves dance along the coastline always seems to put me into a peaceful mindset. Growing up in New Zealand often means that a large majority of your time is spent in the water - for me it was the ocean. Living as a teenager in Interior British Columbia meant that the only water you had access to were lakes or rivers. Simply put, they just don't do the power of water justice. I have always had this affinity with the ocean. It is a constant giver of life not only to humans but to all the ecosystems in and around its reach. Yet it is unrelenting when angry and always changing. It literally beats to its own drum, with freedom and confidence that is envious.
I guess a part of me has always wanted to be one with the sea. Possibly a mermaid, but it has often felt more then that. I remember at my most homesick it was the ocean that almost always answered my prayers for solace. When the closest coastline was 5 hours away, I was lucky enough to have a source of natural water on my way to school or work. Canada is a beautiful country and I was lucky enough to be from the most beautiful province, and though I have reverse homesickniss right now, I find it funny that something as simple as water could give me such great happiness.
If you are from New Zealand or ever in New Zealand I highly recommend checking this lighthouse out. I would suggest going later in the day as there is less foot traffic. Do not fear though, if you are wanting a proper day out the Awhitu Peninsula provides swim-friendly beaches, tracks and hikes. The only thing I suggest is checking the tides if you are planning on exploring the coastline.
Please, if you are inspired to explore your part of the world because of my blog posts tag me in them on Facebook (I Found Lydia) or Instagram (lyds280) using #ifoundlydia. I would LOVE to see where you go and maybe you will inspire me back!
Thanks for reading fam!
Ps. You found Lydia xx
