December 15, 2024

Family in New Zealand

Bicycling in the Redwood Forrest – MaryAnne and Melanie

John and Thomas opted for tougher biking terrain.

Mitai Maori Village

We enjoyed the entertaining show and learning more about the Māori culture.

The hangi method of cooking:  Place sticks across an open pit, stack rocks on the burning stick.  When the sticks collapse, the hot rocks cook the wrapped food.

Hamilton Gardens.  Rick stands in the Egyptian Garden.  Our favorites were the rose garden, kitchen garden, and Italian garden.

The beautiful sunny day in Hamilton was the perfect ending to our Rotorua trip.

The kids flew to the South Island and rented a camper.  They travelled to see some spectacular sites.

They cruised through the stunning Milford Sound and hiked beautiful trails.

Goat Island Marine Reserve, the perfect place to snorkel.

A stingray well hidden on the bottom of the bay.

The pink fish had spots that seemed to glisten under water.

We succeeded at snorkeling here.  It was also a bit exhausting.  Are we aging? The gear kept us warm and afloat.   Melanie spotted the Honey Center on our way home.  We enjoyed that delightful stop.  I enjoyed the Lavender Honey.  Melanie gave the Thyme honey a big thumbs down.  

On the ferry headed to Rangitoto Island.  MaryAnne and John went to Waiheke Island so we took our own island excursion.

We climbed to the peak of the volcanic island then took the long path along the shoreline.  Tom and Mel are still smiling after 10 miles of walking.

These great chefs prepared a New Zealand Thanksgiving dinner: lamb with fresh mint sauce, roasted Kumara (purple, orange, and yellow sweet potatoes), Charcuterie board, elegant green salad, and fresh fruit.  This was our last night all together.

I insisted MaryAnne and John join the Saturday morning pickleball group.  They played so well.  Everyone enjoyed their friendly conversations and each recognized Mary had a huge background playing tennis.

Our joyous two weeks ended so quickly.  Rick and I saw much more of New Zealand with our travels.  This was the best holiday season for us.  We may not be with family on Christmas day, but this time was truly a gift.