Thank you to my travelling companions Hugh, Caroline, George and Michael to whom I am most grateful for their encouragement and their company for making this such an enjoyable trip.
For me the highlights were:
Demonstrating that we could tramp (the New Zealand word) 80 KM in four days carrying 25 lbs.
The varying landscape so different from British Columbia.
Experiencing different climate zones - forest, higher alpine (above the bush line), rain forest etc.
The Tangarioro Alpine crossing with its volcanic terrain.
Observing briefly Queenstown in a heat wave with its multiple adventure activities that are available (although we mainly went tramping).
Comfortable Youth Hostels that are part of YHA New Zealand.
A very comfortable AirBnb in Wellington with a swimming pool in 26C weather.
The train journey from Wellington to Auckland.
A jet boat to "A bridge to nowhere" with interesting commentary from the Maori family who owned the business.
A visit to the New Zealand Yacht Squadron to view the Americans cup that will be held in Auckland in March 2021.Americas Cup Protocol.
A tourist boat tour of Auckland Harbor on another hot day.
Chartering a 31 foot boat for five days sailing in the Bay of Islands.
Chance meeting with two young people associated with the Ocean Cruising Club.
Meeting many very likable New Zealanders.
Meeting young people (mostly under 30) from 42 different countries and states.
Learning the history of the Russell area in the Bay of Islands
A few lowlights:
One day of rain and wind on the Kepler Track.
A day of gale force winds needing to stay on a mooring in Russell.
Realizing once physical endurance limits on the Kepler Track (If I go to New Zealand again I would plan for day tramps rather than overnighters).
The Raven 31 we chartered needed a lot of TLC but she sailed very well.
The Raven 31 we chartered needed a lot of TLC but she sailed very well.
Enduring the long air flights to and from New Zealand.
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