March 2, 2025

Office of General Counsel Retreat – Bay of Islands

The Copthorne Resort – lower left – provided a perfect break from our hectic OGC schedule.  Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate well and the kayaking and boating in the bay adventures were cancelled.

Rick stands near the pool.  After a busy morning, training, lunch in town, then a walk back to the resort, we jumped into the refreshing (cold) pool.  I finally started to warm after ten laps. 

The beautiful rainbow provided a welcome break to our dreary weather.

Some of the spouses opted for hiking during the attorney training time.

Cindy Taylor serves in Sydney, Australia with her husband, Craig.  We enjoyed becoming better acquainted with this wonderful couple.  She stands near Haruru Falls.  This was to be our destination spot for the river kayaking. 

We stopped in Whangarei on our way home.  The falls are beautiful.

I never tire of breathtaking waterfalls.

Several in our group chose to make the small trek to take in this splendid view.

Then, we waved to our friends who remained above the falls.

Mark and Suzy Nilsson, from Santa Clara, completed a two-week New Zealand tour in Auckland.  We spent a delightful day together.

Mount Eden provides a splendid view of Auckland as well as rich Māori history.  I knew Suzi would enjoy this spot.  It was our pleasure to join in the final day of their 50^th wedding anniversary celebration.