Auckland
Went to a very interesting presentation by Council staff on what is planned over the next few years for the waterfront, Art Gallery and Zoo. By all accounts it will be an even greater place to live and work in. We certainly like living in Auckland - there are so many things to see and do each week if you feel so inclined.

First the gallery is going to be extended and have new galleries built, one in the old part of the present gallery. What they didn't mention was that this was the Public Library way back in the 1960s and for the years before. I worked there at the start of my library career before going on my OE , which I'll be writing about soon.

The emphasis will be on conservation for the zoo, looking after the kiwi and Archey's frog for example.

Over the years Auckland City has bought lots of land from the Harbour Bridge area as far as what was known as Tank Farm in order to make the areas more accessible for Aucklanders to enjoy. These include such areas as the approach to Westhaven from the Pt Erin side where already people like to fish, stroll or frequent the cafes, the Marina itself, Viaduct Harbour and now the area round Mechanics Bay which is earmarked for a range of options including residential, park, walkways . What is envisaged is a coastal walkway from St Marys Bay to this new area which over time will be extended to go from Pt Chevalier to St Heliers then on up along the Tamaki River.