Rotorua: from a state of timeless perfection

You must see (and smell) Rotorua to believe it. The land is steaming with the earth’s exhaust escaping in bursts from deep beneath the surface. The exotic pungent smell takes one back to that prehistoric time of dinosaurs and fish-man crawling from the seas. It is a memory that is at once unfamiliar and yet as recognizable as time.

Here the Mitai family has recreated a Maori Village that is earthy, real, and raw. Each evening they provide an authentic introduction to Maori culture, including a Hangi (ground cooked-meal), an ancient warrior canoe, and traditional cultural performances.

Waimangu is the hydrothermal system can be traced to an exact date, June 10, 1886 when a violent eruption punctured the country with a series of craters and allowed geothermal fluid direct passage to the surface of earth. Take a hike to remember, but take advantage of the umbrellas for visitors at the park store. You’ll likely need it! If you want to soak up the unique ambiance of Rotorua head to the Polynesian Spa to lie immerged in earth heated mineral waters or perhaps you’ll want the ultimate relaxing aix massage given under jets of mineral rich waters.

Waiheke Island, NZ, A little glimpse of paradise

Waiheke Island, a short ferry ride from Devonport, is a bit of paradise in New Zealand. Until recently the island was populated by artists and those who wanted to get away from the big city of Auckland acroos the bay. When the ferry service started heaps of working folks from the city now choose to live there. The island has electricity, but all water is stored rainfall …definitely limited resources that will control future growth a bit.

We stayed in a cute, rustic bungalow in the rain forest…just steps from Palm Beach. One morning I worked with sculpture John Freeman an artist that in Oamaru stone carving. Here’s a shot of Black Beach, one of my favorite areas. You’ll also find wineries located throughout the island. Find out more here.