Exploring the Kauri Coast

Exploring the Kauri Coast

I traveled north in New Zealand to see the giant Kauri trees that grace the Waipoua Forest there. They are the oldest and largest trees in the country, some aging over 2,000 years. Being the tree lover that I am, the Kauri Walk was one of my favorite walks during my...
Sunrise at Cathedral Cove

Sunrise at Cathedral Cove

A popular destination on the North Island of New Zealand, Cathedral Cove was quiet this morning as the sun rose over the water in a golden light. I left the popular cave area and walked to this rock formation that was sculpted anew when the sun’s glow graced its...
My Sweet Stay in Golden Bay

My Sweet Stay in Golden Bay

When I first drove to Golden Bay, my rental car heaved up the mountainous and winding road seeming to head off into the sky. Then another turn would take me higher, at times making me dizzy. Blue skies were the destination up above and soon white feathery clouds were...
A Piece of India

A Piece of India

You’d think this photo was taken in India, but in fact, it’s New Zealand. The Indian Char Bagh Garden in Hamilton is like stepping onto a different continent. Paradise is contained between ivory walls and a carpet of colorful flowers spreads out to the...
A Visit to Hobbiton

A Visit to Hobbiton

Today I visited Hobbiton, a colorful camp of Hobbit houses and gardens used in the filming of The Lord of the Rings film series. I had seen all the movies and thought, when in New Zealand! So I made my way through the countryside to the Shire. After parking my car and...