Kia Ora,(hi in Maori. We are back in Auckland to clear out our storage. It has been a month. We pick up Jude tomorrow. We have been on the road exploring and camping out. The first place we visited after leaving Auckland was Bay of Plenty were Matts school is. The first few weeks the weather was rainy, cold and windy, nothing like we had anticipated. We had only packed summer clothes and a pair of jeans each. It keeps us doing laundry regularly.The poly tech campus is gorges, covered halls leading to separate classrooms outside and a huge facility. I fell in love with the library. I may be sneaking in myself. As you see in the picture there is great surf here and one of the loveliest beaches either of us has seen. We climbed the mount as they call it. Everything is volcanic, the beaches have pumice like volcanic rock that floats. There is an active volcano off the coast.
We tried for a week or more to find a place between the beach and school but it is like the cape in the middle of the summer. Everything is rented and it's hard to find a place that excepts dogs. We decided to hit the road and save the money on rent we would be spending to store our stuff and explore the country like we had planned on.
We left for lake Taupo in the middle of the North island. It is an active thermal area that has natural hot springs everywhere. We were lucky to camp out on a Farm for free along a Crystal blue river with a trail leading to Huka falls. There are great bike trails here that gave us a run for our money. We both got new bikes,with disc brakes! We stayed the week indulging in the natural spas. The locals are very friendly and helpful but a hearty bunch. The cold and rain don't faze them in their short shorts. It is a clean way of living. No trash, everyone recycles, thermal energy, half flush toilets, and a great respect for nature. Everyone is active and spends most their free time outside.No one has a large home. If you have money you have more land.
We are headed out of the city for the Corromundell peninsula that is a warmer place. We will write more when we get a chance.Ta
2 comments:
Hi Guys,
Always Great to hear from you! I am happy to hear that everyone is so friendly. Everything sounds breathtaking! Someone in work told us to rent Lord of the Rings. I guess it was filmed there. The picture of you two bundled up must remind you of Fall weather at home. It is finally turning chilly around here. Tonight in the 30's! Imagine, a month alreay! Given all the ups and downs, does it feel a little longer? You must be relieved to finally pick up Jude and venture on! Be Safe and Happy Trails! Much Love to you both!!!
Hi There,
Thanks for the call! It was so nice to hear your voice. Sounds like things are going pretty well other than the price tag of things! I will try and put together a reading care package. Hopefully you will have it when you venture back to that area!
love and happiness! T and F
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