Volcanoes, helicopters and firemen

Auckland sports an array of volcanoes, and it seems anywhere we go we can spot at least one of them.

Our most prominent is the 5.5 km wide island that is Rangitoto; a widely visible landmark with its distinctive symmetrical cone - the formation from eruptions 600 years ago. The name is translated as "Bloody Sky", and I can imagine the ferociousness and burning hell with which this volcano earned that name. But now it is an iconic beauty; it is the backdrop of many of my photographs, and Sunday afternoon's pictures were no exception.

These were scenes from Castor Bay on the North Shore. It was a windy day, but the sun was shining and the sea was calling.

Before I had a child I never took notice of places with playgrounds. Now I can't help but make a mental note of anywhere with good playgrounds.

Ports of Auckland

We had not previously noticed the path on the other side of the heliport. Yay for pathways that take you almost the entire distance of the shipping container port. There were lovely views over to North Head and Mt Victoria, the highest volcano on Auckland's North Shore.

I could not stop Kien throwing the limestones over the edge - it's just one of those things he does.

Helicopter spotting - take three

Three weekends in a row now, waiting patiently for helicopters.

We just knew one was bound to land that afternoon because the heliport was empty. Our patience paid off.

The chopper dropped off a few firemen kitted out in their gear. As we watched them disembark I wondered what job they had just been picked up from, where they had been, what they had done.

After watching the helicopter take off again we drove away at the same time as the firemen in their bright red fire-engine.

Fire is the inspired theme for this week, and in the wake of Sydney's rest-home tragedy it is clear that yin and yang are juxtaposed where this element is concerned. Seeing the Westpac helicopter AND the firemen made me feel grateful for the services they provide.