Heading toward the harbor we are greeted by Maungani Mountain,”first to catch the light”. The town is steps away from our dockage. A beautiful bay frames its entrance. Captain Cook called this area”Bay of Plenty”. It is the fastest growing city in NZ. We tour the town, crammed with eateries of all kinds and unique shops. Fishing is king here and a staple in the inhabitant’s diet. The harbor is jammed with sail and fishing boats. A sign says” Fish are cunning, be prepared”
Kiwi capital of the world. It was first known as the Chinese gooseberry then changed to kiwi after the bird. Containers are filled with this red, gold and green fruit , shipped daily. It is in your local supermarkets from NZ! It grows rapidly on a vine. We stop at a farm and have a taste….
Our guide gives us a brief history. The Māori here welcomed the settlers when they first arrived. As more settlers arrived they took over the land. These natives had no concept of land ownership, they perceived it as Guardianship. Conflict and violence began. Movement here is slowly beginning to try to rectify the injustices endured by the natives. So similar to our treatment of the American Indians.
Some musings- The air here smells different, crisp and clean. Birdsong is the background music- they are everywhere. The people are so welcoming and seem so very happy with their lifestyle.
Q What is the silver fern?
A. Missionaries created the first vineyards to provide a supply for the church.
Sue
2023-03-15
Beautiful country, thanks for the pics and history lesson.
Susan
2023-03-15
Again a great day for you and interesting info for us enjoy
Barbara
2023-03-15
So lovely. Thanks for sharing your impressions and musings :)
Anna
2023-03-15
I love the concept of guardianship over ownership! Sounds like a lovely place to live- especially with all the birds:)
Stephen
2023-03-20
Silver Fern is either a plant or the silver color that bounces back from the sun off the plants, I am pretty sure, lol. How are the beaches there? I have not heard anything about them. I am still really impressed with NZ.