Kia Orana! (Long May You Live), is the official greeting here in the Cook Islands. Everything is going well here, the weather is nice, people friendly, and Tap is a wealth of information! My research for my thesis is coming together, and in addition to the scientific research I am conducting, I am helping set up the aqua farm to be totally self suficient and sustainable. Since I got here 5 weeks ago, I have designed and set up a hatchery (so no baby fish need to be bought and imported), and aided in the implementation of a sustsainable food source for the fish (building a worm and maggot farm and seaweed growout facility on the property) that will eliminate the need for importing expensive feed. The days are long but rewarding. Currently I am working on drilling a well to find pure salt water. You would think it would be easy on a island surrounded by the stuff, but the lagoon water is polluted with bacteria from agriculture runoff in the streams. So, I dig deeper (using the machine!) everyday in hopes of finding pure saltwater so the cash crop of oysters can be introduced to the aqua farm.
In my free time I have been trying to have a swim in the lagoon everyday (the bacteria in the water is only harmful to the fish). It is beautiful! Friday nite is our "big nite on the town", when we get off the farm and have drinks in the capital city (pop. 800). Saturday morning is the "market day", where I have been able to pick up some unique gifts!
In one week I will have completed all my work and research and flying back to NZ. Back to Lauren, who I miss more than anything in the world.
Unfortunately, technology is slow in the Cook Islands, and because of the internet speed I have found it impossible to download the pictures I have taken. Once I get back to NZ I'll update this blog with some pics I have taken (I've taken plenty!).
Kia Maunuea (later)
Matt
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6 comments:
hey - sounds like quite the adventure, glad to hear everything is going well
Patty
Heah There Matt, great to hear from you! Sounds like you have made great use of your time on the Island. Lauren mentioned Tapp's connections to Hawaii. Sounds like it may help down the road. I'm sure Lauren is eagerly awaiting your safe trip home. Take good care! love, T and F
ps We'll see you soon
Hi There,
We are all packed and good to go! Wow, you two sure had a lot to plan for when you embarked on your adventure. It's tricky just trying to organize three weeks into two bags! We'll see you in Tarangua on the 19th! Our flight from Wellington is scheduled to arrive at 1:20pm # NZ8566. We are going to get a couple of International calling cards to let you know when we arrive in Auckland on the 10th! Hopefully we will talk tonight. Much love, Theresa and Frank
p.s. Outstanding photos Matt!!!
So how are things going over there?
Looks pretty exciting!
Aunt Peg & Uncle Kurt : )
Hi, Matt and Lauren! Visiting here in the 1000 Islands, so logging in at your parent's house. Sounds like you have had a great adventure in the Cook Islands, and that will be so meaningful to so many people. The guys and I are anxious to see you when you get home. Love, Aunt J.
Hi Guys,
It looks like you had a good time in Hamilton! Glad you're getting a chance to visit everything before you venture on to Hawaii. Enjoy your Summer weather! love, T and F
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