[Michelle and Richard]

As there are a few of us out here now and we are all trying to get together I thought a joint get together might be a good idea.

So how about all meeting in Auckland Domain next sunday 26th jan ? there is a free concert at 2 in the Rotunda.

Let me know what you think

Michelle

[Wannaway]

Should be able to make it along for 2/3 ish. Maybe if people can't make next Sun they could say if they can do following Sunday.

Be interesting to know - if you can make it - do you have kids - m/f? ages?

Nicky

PS From limited trip to Auc Domain - they don't have any kids playareas do they?

[Terry&Sophie]

Great idea...... but can you wait a couple of weeks... we don't arrive until the 28th!! :no

Terry & Sophie :nice1

[Wannaway]

Just looked at calendar. Isn't Sunday the 23rd or 30th. Presume you mean 23rd?

[Michelle and Richard]

You can tell l dont have kids sorry can you think of anywhere more suitable we can go quite happy wherever . As for dates can possibly do the 5th if that suits more people.

Michelle

[Wannaway]

Why don't we make it the 5th Feb then.

The Domain is fine - at least it's central for everyone wherever they are. We will have to bring a ball along to keep the kids happy.

Nicky

[Babette & Andy]

It looks like 5th Feb is becoming an 'international Forum mtg day' - the next meet for the England NW crew is also on that day :cheers Great timing if Linda/Ali & Lucy can make it to the Auckland meeting - from one group meeting to the next.

Hope you all have great fun, sure you'll have plenty to talk about. Look forward to seeing some pictures and reading the stories :nice1
Babette

[eric_amanda]

Hi folks

Glad to see some North Islanders finally getting together. Eric and I would have loved to bring the children down, however he is working on the Saturday morning (only usually does 1 in 3 and just happens to be his one)!!! So if the meet stays with the 5th then I'm afraid we will not be able to make it, however if the date changes we would love to try and make it, or maybe next time!!!

PS we need good kiddy facilities we have 3 under 4 yrs!!!

Amanda

[Arlevien]

Am I reading the thread correctly? Feb 5th Saturday? My wife and I will be arriving in auckland on the 27th, and will be staying in Mt. Eden ( not on the mountain itself but around it j/k). We could try to join you folks in the domain. Pls post/send contact details on who is coordinating this.

I'm bringing the Digital Camera! :mrgreen: and I love shooting unnoticed. :laugh

[Haydee Stroud]

We'd love to join if there's another one later in the year. We arrive Feb 23rd.

Haydee

[eric_amanda]

Hi again

Are you organising this Michelle?

If so, if we are unable to make the Feb meet we will be in Auckland around Easter time as we are flying out to the Gold Coast for a week, maybe Auckland meet number two could be around then???!!!

Best wishes

Amanda

[funkstar deluxe]

Sweet!
We arrived in Auckland yesterday, so we're up for it!

No kids (yet) but look forward to meeting you all.

Sat 5th Feb, 2pm, the rotunda in the Domain (is this all correct?)

Digression: Have you guys seen the film festival thingy after dark in the harbour? its 12 bucks and theres a film every night for 39 days (started a week or so ago)

Mr and Mrs Funkstar (Phil and Tracey)

[Wannaway]

Ok shall we say Sat 5th or Sun 6th. Sunday is definitely a better day for us.

Can Eric and Amanda make the Sunday 6th?

What about Coyle Park in Pt Chev if others need kiddie facilities? It has a play ground, toilets ( tho not sure if baby change etc), a small beach and city views? Does anyone else know of good ones for kiddies? There are good areas up in the North Shore eastern bays but I don't know them all that well.

Can we all agree on Sun 6th Feb for a start?

We can always do another one later for those that are arriving after this date.
Nicky

[eric_amanda]

Sunday 6th Feb is definately OK for us.

As for location, neither of us are familiar with Auckland, but coming from Whangarei the northern side of Auckland is obviously better, but we will go with the flow!!!

Amanda

[Michelle and Richard]

Can do 6th no probs. Best not include me in suggestions for places as I have no idea about places for kids ! sorry

Michelle

[Beach Kiwi]

Best not include me in suggestions for places as I have no idea about places for kids ! sorry


Here's some suggestions that are great for both kids and adults.

Auckland Zoo (http://www.aucklandzoo.co.nz/index.php). This zoo has had major work done to it in order to transform it from an old concept zoo into a modern, 'up close', wildlife park. It has excellent facilities for kids, is centrally located, and is great fun for all. They often walk animals through the zoo, right where you are walking yourself, the most 'common' one being the elephants. The zoo is very interactive too, and you can get up close and personal with a number of species, the cutest being the Meerkats.

Cornwall Park (http://www.cornwallpark.co.nz/) is Aucklands largest, and most beautiful park, and is also centrally located. It has many acres of ground in which to picnic, play ball, take in the sights - from the top of One Tree Hill, which is in the centre of the park (that pointy obelisk that dominates much of Aucklands skyline is on top of One Tree Hill), etc. There is a real working sheep farm in the park too, and you can usually get up close to the sheep as they are only separated from the public by a wire fence. The Auckland observatory is also located in Cornwall Park. Check it out, as it's less crowded than the Domain, larger than the Domain, and in my opinion, much more beautiful, especially for when you are having a get-together. :nice1

Oh, and both have excellent 'facilities'. (Toilet facilities, that is!) ;)

[Wannaway]

Thanks Beach Kiwi,

I think not the zoo. It is great but everyone would have to pay and as we are supposed to be getting together for a social I think it is highly unlikely any parents would be able to keep the kids from wandering off to look at the animals and would therefore not actually get a chance to meet any others. Western Springs ( around the zoo is large and has good play areas BUT loads of geese etc so we found poo everywhere when we went for picnic there and so many open water areas that, as a parent trying to socialise with other adults, I would be extremely worried about taking my eyes off the kids for a minute there.

Anyone know what play areas if any there are in Cornwall Pk? We may pop over there on Sun to have a look so if no-one knows will post then to say.

Nicky

[Beach Kiwi]

Anyone know what play areas if any there are in Cornwall Pk?

Cornwall park is definitely more child 'friendly' than the Domain, safer too!

From HERE (http://www.kidsnewzealand.com/kidsnz/content.asp?Page=Citypark)

Cornwall Park
Access from Green Lane and One Tree Hill

Another of our parent's favourites and an Auckland treasure Cornwall Park and One Tree Hill form the largest area of parkland in Auckland with heaps to see and do - it's no wonder kids love it.

"There's so much space that it never feels crowded", is a typical comment we have from parents. Bikes, ballgames, visiting the cattle and sheep and wandering hens, enjoying a picnic or the playground - it's all here.The playground has a popular circular train in the centre that preschool kids just love, swings, tunnel slide and lots of climbing - it's a good area for older kids too with a flying fox and extra swings. A perfect place to blow away the cobwebs and enjoy the fresh air.

There are summer concerts held in the band rotunda - see our SPECIAL EVENTS section. There is also a good 'child friendly' cafe - 'Cornwall Park Cafe' - see EATING OUT for more information. Next to the cafe is a kiosk serving delicious icecreams inlcuding kiddie cones for toddlers and snacks.


Go to Cornwall Park, rather than the very busy, and 'touristy' Domain, you won't regret it! :nice1

And don't forget, I lived in Auckland for most of the 40 years I've been in New Zealand, so I know what I'm talking about here. :cool

[Annierobrigado]

wah! i wish i was there already! :wah :wah

have a happy auckland meet! make another one when we finally get there, ok?

:cheers
annie

[Wannaway]

So everyone - what about Sunday 6th Feb at Cornwall Park?
Near playground?

[Michelle and Richard]

'touristy' Domain you have to be kidding I walk in there morning and evening and have yet to see anything resembling touristy. A museum maybe but thats hardly Blackpool pleasure beach !

Cornwall park is fine with me.

Michelle

[Beach Kiwi]

I don't mean 'touristy' in the way you're thinking. The Domain, and the Museum in particular, are one of Auckland's more popular tourist 'traps'. Sure, the morning and evenings are comparatively quiet, but on a sunny weekend afternoon it's a different story.

Mind you, what I, as a local, consider to be busy, is probably completely different to what someone from the UK considers to be busy. ;)

And trust me, Cornwall Park has a lot more going for it than the Domain. :nice1

[eric_amanda]

What time?

Can someone give us directions from the north please?

Amanda

PS How many of us is there likely to be?

[AliJax]

Hello Auckland!

Its time of the Big Day Out so the Jackson's Ali, Linda & Lucy will be there in full attendance (unless Lindas first week in work is going to include the weekend :wah )

http://www.wises.co.nz/

The above link is to the Wises map enter One Tree Hill and you'll find Cornwall Park & some Parking, from it you can clearly see where you'll be entering the City.

Sorry youse has missed us the past few weeks, getting sorted an all, and apologies to Jo B for not being their for her in her time of need - welcome to all those who've joined us in the exedus to the 'Promissed Land' and now we're here its looking good. :nice1

Richard & Michelle a big announcment in need for the date & Time please decypher all the :yes 's & :no 's.

[Michelle and Richard]

So its 6th 2 pm and as for loaction within the park well I don't know but somewhere near the ice cream shop please, any other suggestions ????

Michelle

[eric_amanda]

Ali - thanks for the link, hadn't thought of using wises!!

Michelle - would the ice cream shop be anywhere near the playground?

I assume they have picnic benches etc for us all to camp out on?

Will Karl be able to make it? Has he seen this thread?

Amanda

[Beach Kiwi]

The ice cream shop is part of the Kiosk, well, it was the last time I was there - the location of which can be found on this map (http://www.wises.co.nz/map/default.asp?street=CORNWALL+PARK+Avenue&suburb=GRE ENLANE&town=Auckland&sttype=&id=47444|2&svctype=1& zoom=4&mapwhich=0&mapsize=2&width=512&height=512&b usinesses=1&brad=25&color=-1&filled=0&routemethod=0&s_id=&radius=&a=0&e=26696 40&n=6476840&move=true&zoomin=true).

The easiest way to get to the park from most suburbs is by taking the Greenlane turnoff from the Southern Motorway, and heading along Greenlane West Road, a map of which can be found here. (http://www.wises.co.nz/map/default.asp?street=CORNWALL+PARK+Avenue&suburb=GRE ENLANE&town=Auckland&sttype=&id=47444|2&svctype=1& zoom=4&mapwhich=0&mapsize=2&width=512&height=512&b usinesses=1&brad=25&color=-1&filled=0&routemethod=0&s_id=&radius=&a=0&e=26702 80&n=6477480&move=true&zoomin=true)

There's a map of the whole park on this page (http://www.cornwallpark.co.nz/) too. Click on it to get the larger version.


Michelle - would the ice cream shop be anywhere near the playground?


Although it's been a number of years since I was last there, I don't think there's one *very* close by. However, the park is easy to navigate around, so you shouldn't have too much trouble combining the two activities.

I assume they have picnic benches etc for us all to camp out on?

Yes, as well as barbeques that are free to use. However, there is a limited supply of both, so don't be surprised if they're all taken. But there's plenty of nice grass to set up a picnic on, which is much more fun, in my opinion. :cool

[Michelle and Richard]

Have a look at www.cornwallpark.co.nz lots of info on there and those with kiddies can decide on a spot that suits. There are picnic spots with BBQ's but if its anything like the hell that was Long Bay today yes they will be taken. It was also noticeable that many had little "booked" signs on. If people want a BBQ I will give them a ring and try and book.

Yes the kiosk is where the ice cream shop is but as we go quite often I think I can go a day without it !

Michelle

[Michelle and Richard]

As most people seem to be taking kids how about a family fun day at the Rotunda in Cornwall Park, clowns, face painting and sausage sizzle starts at 1 PM and is being organised by Auckland City Council.

Michelle

[lindajax]

sounds good to me !!!

[eric_amanda]

Sounds fun, excellent choice for the children! :nice1 :clap

Dare i ask where the rotunda is???

Should we wear a rose to recognise each other?!! :P

See you Sunday

Amanda

[AliJax]

I agree, I've looked for Rotunda, asked at work, last resort (probably should be the first) is to ring the estates department - but will give the forum first shout.

Not sure about the roses though, I've heard Cornwall Park is a breeding ground for blind daters :eek

Odd socks whilst wearing shorts sounds good to me :nice1

[eric_amanda]

In NZ you should not war socks and shorts. Something Eric learned very quickly after our arrival.

Maybe the very traditional Great British hanky on the head?! or maybe you could just keep an eye out for the poor couple with 3 littlies and a 3 wheeled double buggy!!! :laugh Thats us!! :laugh :nice1

Let us know where the rotunda is!

Amanda

[michala]

Hi,

I have been reading your thread and was wandering if my husband and I could pop along for this get together too..?

I am 31, from London and have been in Auckland for just over a year. My husband is a kiwi but grew up in Palmerston North and has been in London with me for the last 11 years, so he is as new to Auckland as I am.

It would be very nice to meet some fellow immigrants and my husband and I are off to the Domain for 'party in the park' so thought that it would be nice to pop in on the way for a couple of hours.!

[lindajax]

EVERYONE IS WELCOME - So come along and join the fun!!!!!

[eric_amanda]

More the merrier!! Are you good with children???!!! :P

We are travelling down from Whangarei, but are looking forward to it.

Amanda

[michala]

I Don't have any children....but, yes I am good with them (I am a big kid myself)..

I will continually log on to read about the meeting up details, hopefully the weather will stay as good as it is (a trifle hot for a Londoner but I'm coping.)

[funkstar deluxe]

guys, Im going to have to blow you out in favour of the free Groove in the Park do at the Domain
Dont take it personally, being car-less makes things a bit more of a hassle, but will see you at another meet soon

[lindajax]

Hi all,

After the very up and down weather today I was wondering 2 things really.

1 are we bringing food?
2 is there any shelter should it start to pour down?

Linda xxx

[eric_amanda]

Hi All

I'm sorry to say that we are going to have to miss the get together today. We have been really sick the past couple of days with a tummy bug. The children had it earlier in the week and now it has hold of Eric and I, so we really don't feel up to the drive down to Auckland. :(

Hope you all have a fab afternoon and that the weather holds for you and maybe we will be able to make it next time. :P

Amanda

[Diny]

As I sit here at 1.16 in the morning suffering from (yet anoter) night of insomnia, I can imagine you all there at the Auckland meet.

Hoping you all have a great time. Our meeting today was a real hoot. Looking forward to the pictures.
Diny

http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/sehrgrosse/large-smiley-018.gif

[Wannaway]

Well turned up at 2.15 and couldn't see anyone except the people who had obviously stayed on for the music etc after a bit of rain. Saw no one that we could identify as being from forum so don't know if you'd all met already and got under some shelter but sorry we missed you all. Suggest next time we have more specific meeting place that doesn't coincide with another public gathering as virtually impossible to find each other.

We stayed toil after the clowns,band etc had packed away, played footie etc so had a good time there antway then drove up to the summit - pity not a clear day.

If people want to try again why don't we suggest a date towards end of Feb or early March and be a bit more specific about the meet area. By the way, found the playground, quite a good one, by the entrance to the park on Manukau Road ( next to the Obervatory which is marked on maps and there is a separate car park for the play area)

Nicky

[AliJax]

Hi we we're at the bandstand but when the rain came down headed for the trees beside the entry road & playground, had a sausage (even asked the two girls if they knew anyone lost like us) listened to the band, had a wander round looking for people with lost faces like ours and without a proper point of meet or way of identifying each other.

We did head up to the Kisok (also asked if there we're any lost souls there) had a lovely double Ice Cream and viewed the trees from that verander of steps.

Ah well best laid plans - It was a lovelly area and would insist we tried again sometime definatley make use of the bbqs.

[Diny]

Ah bummer !!!!! Don't tell me you didn't manage to meet?

Better luck next time guys.

Ali ...... you mentioning you climbed up some steps to look at the trees ..... it kind of conjoured up this image ....

http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/sehrgrosse/large-smiley-047.gif

Diny

[eric_amanda]

Oh what a shame you guys didn't meet up!!

Well if you are planning another go, let us know the details and we will try and make it this time.

Amanda

[jo b]

Aw

you guys how dissapointing.http://www.addis-welt.de/smilie/smilie/traurig/d0301.gif

I suggest you all wear a similar colour next time like red T shirts etc.

Hope you all arrange another one soon.

Jo

[Terry&Sophie]

Hi all,

Sorry, we didn't make it to the meeting, although it sounds like it would've been difficult to find you anyway :no ... we were still running around sorting a car etc.

All sorted now though... got the house, car and jobs. Now we can enjoy ourselves.... if we didn't have to start work tomorrow :uhoh

We should be ok for the next meet up now we're more settled :nice1 .

Terry & Sophie

[jan]

Terry & Sophie, Post us a story on how things have been going since you arrived. :yes

Its always great to read a post which gives us waiting to arrive, an indepth description of what you have been up to. :eek

Nice to hear what you have encountered on the way flight, arrival, cars, housing etc etc etc. :cool

Sorry if its not your thing .

P.S our arrival is in April/May so we will deffo try any meets that are after that date. :nice1

Jan xx

[lindajax]

Hi all,

Are we gonna attempt another --- I don't mind organising it if anyone wants a get together -- Possibly BBQ at a corwall park or Our place
What does everyone think????>


Linda xx

[Diny]

Seeing as we're only going to be about 1 1/2 hours out of Auckland (depending on who's driving ;) ) count us in on future meets.

Terry & Sophie ..... I second Jan's request, how about starting a thread telling us how you're getting on - always interesting to read people's stories.

Good luck and hope all turns out well for you.

Diny

[Arlevien]

We are moving to our new rental place on the last meet up date so we did not made it. Count me in too if u guys putting up another.. bbq is good. I volunteer to be the official shutter bug! :mrgreen:

[eric_amanda]

Hi

We would love to try and make it if you can arrange something Linda.

We are in Auckland on 26th March so that would be a good day for us, otherwise we will try and fit in where we can.

As for location we will leave that up to you as you are the experts! Eric suggested the new snowdome place (he's a snowboarder!) may be a good 'indoor' option. I guess it all depends on the weather really, we don't want to be stuck indoors on a nice day!! The snowdome doesn't open until March either.

Eric also suggested we all wear an ENZ forum logo, so we can identify each other!! May be worth swapping cellphone numbers also.

Let us know what you all decide.

All the best

Amanda

[jo b]

Linda,

Don't forget us we will be around Tauranga from about the 1st April and as it's only an hours drive we could drive up and stay over (campervan).

Jo

[AliJax]

.....neck out here.

http://www.cornwallpark.co.nz/news.asp?NewsID=206

there is heaps of stuff going on at Cornwall Park, I quite like the Idea of the Jazz Band SUNDAY 27th Feb - although its a little close, CAN WE MAKE IT? :hopeso

Can the Moderators come too ?

[Terry&Sophie]

Sounds like a good idea to me, Terry likes Jazz and I quite enjoy all but the random improvised stuff!

Did you go to the Mission bay jazz and blues fest last weekend? Not a bad night out for free!! :mrgreen:

Sophie

[AliJax]

..oops sorry the Jazz band is this Sunday 20th

Sunday the 27th is Brass band.

Can we STILL MAKE IT :hopeso