One Tree Hill - Cornwall Park

Well its really no tree hill now after a series of attacks on the "one tree" by Maori protesters over the years saw the tree cut down.  But its still one of the most spectacular volcanic cones in the Auckland region with stunning views across the isthmus to both East and West Coasts.  While the hill is a must do, it is pretty touristy and it is the surrounding Cornwall Park that in my view is the highlight.  On a sunny day half of Auckland is having a family picnic here yet there is still enough room to have your own quarter acre of grass.  There are a number of highlights such as the ice cream shop next to the information centre, archery club, highland cattle, variety of trees and "groves", steep banks to roll around on, craters to explore, rocks to spell out your name for the next Google Earth satellite pass over and of course sheep.  There are plenty of sheep in all sizes and breeds confirming the stereo types for international tourists (much to many a Kiwi's dismay).  And instead of taking the road or paths to the top the hill I would recommend taking the road less travelled and hop a fence (where a turnstile is provided) and head up through one of the many paddocks of sheep and you will likely find an isolated park bench at the top of a ridge all for yourself.