July 28, 2024

Mid-winter

Long Bay Coastal Walk

Long Bay Regional Park

The fir trees are spectacular

We attended the Family First Conference at Due Drop Arena.  The drive through Auckland is always stressful.   Finally, during the morning break we stepped outside and noticed the Auckland temple across the street.  

 

The projected date of completion is early 2025.  We’re excited to be part of this event. 

I’m serving on the Auckland Temple Open House Committee.  I’m thrilled!

Winter in New Zealand guarantees many rainy days.

We enjoy the rainbows from our balcony.

I can’t get enough of these colorful scenes.

Saturday morning fog covers most of Auckland.  We enjoy the Auckland view from our balcony.  It’s true, we often witness three seasons in one day.  The fog cleared by late morning; we hiked in full sun until afternoon when the clouds rolled in.

This beauty appeared along a garden wall at Bastian Point.

We found a treasure:  A monument honoring New Zealanders who served in the Korean war.  The sacred site evokes reverence.

Rick stands at the monument.  He may be one of the few in New Zealand who can read the Korean characters.

Street Markets – we always walk through the crowds to see what’s there and bask in the excitement of the event.

The variety is massive:  soap, leather, Māori souvenirs, art, treats, baked goods, jewelry, on and on, plus food of every variety. 

Post hike Dinner at “Burger Burger” with Baldwins and Garners.  We enjoy these senior missionaries.  Rick said his burger was fabulous.  I ordered couscous, pumpkin, sun dried tomatoes and spinach salad, spectacular.  We’ll visit again.