One of the walks I love doing after work, is the almost 4 km walk around Lake Rotoroa, a lake in the centre of the city. It is a completely flat walk but the everchanging scenery makes it a pleasure to enjoy after a busy working day. Easily accessed, it is about a three to four minute drive from the CBD.

A well constructed concrete and metalled path, which meanders around the shore line, makes up most of the walk, which can also take scooters, and wheelchairs. Yachting, canoeing and kayaking are common sports seen on the lake. Innes Common to the East and West of the lake is a multisport ground, which includes lacrosse and hockey.

During December to April a myriad of multihued waterlilies provide a beautiful blanket in the lower part of the lake – Pink, lemon, vivid chartreuse while the well kept gardens facing them are a blaze of color.

Ducks, swans and geese all paddle happily, disappearing underwater frequently to gather the little bugs growing there. Their calls follow me as I and many others enjoy this peace and tranquility. Pukekos stand sentry like and call raucously to warn others of approaching danger (which is me).

Early springs sees banks of bright yellow daffodils brightening a dull dreary afternoon.

Early springs sees banks of bright yellow daffodils brightening a dull dreary afternoon.