The Monday between the weekend and Waitangi Day, meant a day off work for me, so a very early start to be on the road for sunrise at Mahurangi West, about a 30 minute drive from my home.
When I arrived it was still dark, so without the aid of an LED headlamp (I used my phone's torch function) and a little bit of stumbling around, I finally managed to get my camera and tripod set up with 30 minutes to spare before sunrise.
The early start was well worth it though, and shortly after I was treated to not only a beautiful sunrise, but spectacular views of the Hauraki Gulf, Kawau Island and Great Barrier Island in the distance.
It doesn't get much better that this. The feeling of peace and tranquility and the dawn of a new day is really something. I don't do this enough - but i will do in the future!
By the way, I did invest in that LED headlamp for next time - a bargain at $20 from Jaycar Electrical.
