This was how our guide, Ceillhe,  explained living in New Zealand.  They are the first to greet each day and are always ahead of the rest of the world, as witnessed by the fact that they were the first country to give women the vote.  We experienced so much today that it is difficult to describe in words without the overuse of superlatives.  Ceillhe is of Maori lineage and can trace her heritage back to the canoe that her ancestors used to traverse the Pacific and arrive in New Zealand.  She speaks four languages, owns the tour company with her husband who speaks six languages and is the picture of a Polynesian mother embracing her family.  Her she is in a shot from their website giving the traditional Maori greeting, touching head and nose and sharing your life force.  And here she is talking to our group of eight intrepid explorers, explaining Maori culture and New Zealand history.

The highest natural point in the City of Auckland is a volcano, complete with crater.

The plaque on the obelisk atop this mountain reminded us that this was a “smiling land”.

From here, we drove to the Auckland museum which sits on land that was once used to house 45,000 American troops during World War II.

And then, a short trek to the “Winter garden” and “Fernery” to explore the exquisite NZ flora and fauna. (click to enlarge)

The last picture is a tree with fruit that grows so large it can take several folks to carry.

And here is the oldest vine on earth.  As Ceihlle said, “Our Forests are our gardens AND our medicine cabinets” as she showed us different ferns with medicinal properties.

From here we took a longer drive to reach the west coast of cliffs and black sand beaches.  In this incredible city you can wade in the Tazman Sea and Pacific ocean in a matter of minutes.  Beware Heidi and Art, Wayne noticed that there was an RV park in this location upon which I’m sure you will stake a temporary claim when you make your trip.

The black sand beaches and cliffs are also the home of the Gannet bird which nest on the cliffs.  They were thrilling to watch while they seemed to float on air.

Believe me, these pictures don’t do justice to the awe inspiring scene.

Soon it was time to venture back and our wonderful Ceillhe took us through the adorable town of Devenport.  Imagine living in this jewel of a home with a white picket fence . . .

and this is the view out your front window.

After rounding us up into the van for the trip home, we had one more treat in store, a stop at a “dairy” for a taste of the Kiwi favorite, Hokey Pokey Ice Cream.

Oh, and by the way, you all thought that New Zealanders were called “Kiwis” because of the fruit, right?  WRONG!  It’s because an Australian businessman  started the Kiwi Shoe Polish company!  So think about that the next time you buff your shoes.

Tomorrow we fly to Blenheim and are off to the vineyards of Marlborough.

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