RAUMATI AOTEAROA.
January 7, 2010

For those who didn't know, we are currently in the peak of our summer season here. Before the start of my bike week we took a quick day trip to Piha with friends. Piha is one of Auckland's famous west coast beaches; it has enormous spiritual value to the local iwi (tribe) and community, as well as being one of the birthplaces of New Zealand board riding & surfing, dating back to 1958. Large international surf competitions are still held at Piha to this day; the next being the 2010 Quiksilver ISA Junior world championship in a couple weeks. One of the unique features of our west coast beaches is the famous volcanic 'black sand', where on some days you can see tiny iron particles glinting in the sunlight like stars in the sky. Despite the crowds, you always feel at peace there. A place truly unlike anywhere else.

Ngā mihi o te Raumati.