Pounamu is found in many places on the West Coast and is prized for its strength, durability and beauty. Used by the Māori for generations, it denotes great status. Its beauty is still well appreciated as it is found in many West Coast shops and galleries. Please see my previous blogs regarding this precious Taonga […]
Now on to my own home region – The West Coast of the South Island. This is the region I was born in – it is the place I will always call home regardless of where I live or travel. To me it is the most beautiful and precious part of the country – but […]
In 66 countries, the contributions of workers are honoured on Labour Day. In New Zealand, Labour Day is marked on the fourth Monday of October. Labour Day commemorates the struggle for an eight-hour working day. New Zealand workers were among the first in the world to claim this right when, in 1840, the carpenter Samuel […]
Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s smallest national park – but it’s perfectly formed for relaxation and adventure. Whilst summer is a popular time to visit, locals believe that the shoulder seasons are actually the best time to explore the park, as crisp mornings, calm waters and quiet beaches allow you to truly enjoy […]
As you will no doubt be aware now I am very passionate about the Island Nation I call home. New Zealand or land of the long white cloud as it is affectionately known. Or Aotearoa the name our native New Zealand people the Māori call it. I have been told that New Zealand has a […]
Republic Day marks the creation of the Turkish Republic in 1923. After Turkey’s victory in the War of Independence (1919-1923), the Turkish parliament proclaimed the new Turkish state as a republic. A new constitution, which the parliament adopted on October 29, 1923, Many people in Turkey celebrate Republic Day on October 29 by attending performances […]
Nestled between the fertile rural heartland of New Zealand’s North Island, and the bountiful waters of Cook Strait, this harbour city is the country’s capital. Surrounded by nature and fuelled by creative energy, Wellington is a compact city with a powerful mix of culture, history, nature and cuisine. It encompasses a waterfront promenade, sandy beaches, […]
Rotorua, a town set on its namesake lake on New Zealand’s North Island, is renowned for bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs perfect for bathing and relaxing in, as well as showcasing our fascinating native New Zealand people the Māori culture. Steeped in cultural history, Rotorua is the home of ‘Māoridom’ where […]
The beautiful Lake Taupō is about the size of Singapore – more of an inland sea really. Taupō is centrally located in the middle of the North Island, approximately 3 1/2 hours’ drive from Auckland and 4 1/2 hours’ drive from Wellington. According to Māori legend, the lake is the pulsating heart of Maui’s fish […]
Next on my whirlwind “trip” around the North Island of New Zealand is Waitomo Caves. Discover a place where time and space stand still. A true measure and timeless secret of Aotearoa, 30 million years in the making. Here in the heart of New Zealand, moments of real magic, wonder and adventure exist both above […]
