We came here because the Mt Albert Lodge has just opened its own on-site cafe, situated in front of the motel on Carrington Rd.

Few Aucklanders have ever heard of the 11km-long Oakley Creek, yet it runs from Hillsborough, through Mt Roskill, Mt Albert and finally Waterview.

Thousands of fans who took the train to last week's 'family friendly' Rugby World Cup opening celebrations had a horrifying night they would rather forget.

This is not a Rugby World Cup mug.

Cooking methamphetamine for Albert Wayne Hunter was called "working for the Beast".

We came here because we'd driven past this place a couple of times recently and thought the tables in the front window looked like a great spot from which to watch the goings-on at Rocket Park across the road.

In an unassuming area of Mt Albert lies the quaint, vintage-style cafe, Cosset. The feeling as you walk through the door is one of cosiness and familiarity, like you are walking into a moment of your past - it works and it works well.

Being near the water is a big draw card for West Harbour residents, says Ashley Campbell.

Ashley Campbell visits a long-established suburb with mixed-bag amenities.

With the All Whites' surprise World Cup success, it seems soccer awareness is on the rise. And kids and parents alike are loving it, writes Gill South.

Kay McFarlane and Michael Holmes have lived in Mt Albert for 10 years with their three boys. They tell Catherine Smith what they love about their neighbourhood.