Thoughts on New Zealand

As we depart each country I am going to try to summarize my impressions.

New Zealand is a beautiful country with varied features. I have never seen so many shades of green. I can only imagine if it had not been overcast during our entire trip it would be even more striking – especially the coast line.

The people we met were not overly friendly, but certainly not rude either. I never heard a New Zealander say thank you, sorry or your welcome. I suppose there are some hints in that fact regarding their attitudes towards life. When I overheard conversations they were often about the economy or politics – we were even asked about our next president. They seem much more world savvy then the typical American.

I can see how a true exploration of the country could take months per island – even the travelers we came across seemed to be permanent travelers – they would work for a few months and then travel for a few months – and had been doing that for years – what an interesting lifestyle.

Allysha says she wants to return to the country to have a ranch of sheep and cows – not for slaughter – just to keep. I actually imagine her fitting in quite well there.

Overall – I am satisfied with the sights and activities we chose although the pace was a bit more hurried than I imagined. My only real regret is not making it to the Bay of Islands – but I cannot imagine how we would have fit that trip into the agenda. I also would have liked a chance to snorkel but the weather did not cooperate.

The country seemed very young – probably a result of it having been the last place populated by humans. The culture is an interesting mix of the native Maori and British influenced population. Everyone seems quite concerned for preserving the land which is a relief to see – renewable energy signs, political slogans regarding using home grown vs. imported goods were spread across the sites we visited.

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