Takapuna beach is wonderful to spend time in when the weather is warm and the sun shines on you. Lying on the grassy patch, you can watch the runners and dog walkers to past you, with Rangitoto island in the background.

If the weather is a bit chilly you can walk down the beach a bit until you find a bench to sit and chat. Hot drinks and something little and sweet to munch on helps, too.

From Cafe Melba, we got:

Sweet Chai latte, honeydew green tea
Choc chip cookie, lemon melts

I really liked the high quality tea they had there, the honeydew tea smelt lovely. Choco chip cookie was just what I needed at the time. The waiters were very friendly and nice. There was one in particular who made us feel so welcoming that I may very likely drop in again, soon.