new zealand 2003 - day 10

On our last day in New Zealand, we drove down Tamaki Drive to Kelly Tartlon's Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World. We got to see exhibits on the early expeditions to the South Pole, King and Gentoo penguins standing on ice or darting around in their chilly pool, seahorses, sharks, rays, eels and other local aquatic residents. When we emerged from the underground museum, the sun was sparkling off of the bay and we decided to continue along Tamaki Drive to see the little towns on the water. Eventually, we parked near Bastion Point and walked into town for a mouthwatering brunch of green lip mussels, seafood chowder and a plate of brekkie. We strolled out along the walk that parallels the shore. Everyone was out biking, walking, or roller blading. It was a lovely day and a low key way to end the trip. We took the scenic route to the airport and said our goodbyes to Nougat in the carpark. We were both tired and ready to go home, but a part of us wanted to stay and explore more of New Zealand.

Everyone marveled at the short stay we had for our vacation. While much of Europe and other parts of the world enjoy holidays of 4-6 weeks, those of us in the United States get something on the order of 2 weeks. Ten days was certainly too little time to really see New Zealand, although we did manage to travel a good bit of the North Island. The Lonely Planet New Zealand recommends at least 6 weeks. My own feeling is that I could spend a lifetime enjoying this beautiful country and her people. This is the land of Sir Edmund Hilary whose face graces the five dollar bill. New Zealand is home to a strong climbing tradition. It has a history of ecological disasters that stem from colonial days, but the kiwis are working hard to remedy the situation and fiercely protect their endangered species. They are nuclear free, have a dry sense of humor, are incredibly friendly, and set aside over ten percent of their country as national parks. There are more sheep than humans. The Maori culture and people are an integral part of what is New Zealand. We love the country and the people. It was a grand trip.