An important part of Maoritanga (Maori Culture) is the recitation of one's Whakapapa (family tree) during formal meetings and introductions. As part of this process the speaker also introduces the region they are from by naming their local mountain and water. Pretty much anywhere you go in New Zealand you are surrounded by lush green hills, and Auckland is no exception. While these may not compete with the snow capped peaks of the Southern Island, they do still nonetheless make for some exceptional landscapes. Where we live in Auckland we are lucky to be within walking distance of three such mountains: One Tree Hill, Mt. St. John, and Mt. Hobson.
The tree for which this mountain was named has since been cut down as a form of protest over the Treaty of Waitangi. I believe a helicopter was involved.
One Tree Hill is kind of like if a volcano formed in the centre of the Experimental Farm in Ottawa. There are interesting geological crevices and landscapes all over the place, but also places for sheep and cow to graze, and all pretty much in the centre of the city.
The obelisk at the top is visible from our bedroom window.
It's a pretty stunning place to go for a run and provides views of the city centre.
One Tree Hill is also a great landmark as it's visible from most places in the city and for the moment, the neighbourhood we considered home.
