Autumn - The Eastern Beaches

It is mid autumn now here in Auckland and the leaves are starting to fall from the trees. It is still quite warm at 22 degrees celsius - though many people used to tropical weather start to bundle up. Most people here from New Zealand continue to wear shorts and t-shirts, even when it is winter. Don't be confused if you see this, it is quite normal for this to occur in autumn. Though you don't see as many people swimming in the ocean, people still enjoy the beaches Auckland has to offer throughout the year. There are many beaches minutes drive/ on the bus from the CBD of Auckland, and even more spectacular beaches within an hour's drive from the city. Mission Bay is one the many beaches east of the city and is one of the more popular city beaches, because of its closeness to the city and its many restaurants. You can drive along Tamaki drive along the waterfront from the city or catch one of the many buses that depart from britomart (route no. 745, route no. 755, route no. 769). If you are taking the bus many bus drivers will tell you where to get off if you ask them nicely to tell you when you are there. You can also walk along the waterfront, but it may take an hour or so. Before Mission Bay there is a beach that can be beautiful to look at at high tide named Okahu Bay. Further past Mission Bay is Kohimarama Beach and St Heliers. Kohimarama is the better of the four for swimming during high tide as it is quite a wide beach with new replenished sand from renovations to the area a few years ago. It also has a few cafes/ restaurants. However St Heliers has a greater variety of shops and restaurants, and has a park behind the beach for various activities. All these beaches have a park or one nearby, if you need a grassy spot to relax upon. Also you will find a playground at most of the beaches either by the beach or on the adjoining park. All these beaches east of the city have toilets and changing facilities if you are looking for a swim or just a rest stop. By car these beaches only take a maximum of 20 mins from downtown (not during rush hour) to reach. However on popular days such as holidays and weekends (mostly at night), you may find trying to find a park difficult. In this case parking in the back streets are the only option - especially in mission bay. Parking is free at most of these beaches except for the parking lots around the back of the shops in mission bay (which can be useful on a busy day). All of these beaches should have a great view of the harbour and the islands - except on a misty or foggy day.
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