I once saw a photo of Kura Tawhiti, or Castle Hill in New Zealand. A man walked between huge boulders at sunset with mountains fading into the light. The scene looked like something out of a dream. I decided then to make a special trip to see it while on the South Island.
Approaching the site, I was reminded of Stonehenge, except no man has laid the stones that stand here. Giant limestone boulders that once rested under an inland sea, lie here on soft grass, smoothed into curved shapes over millions of years. Each seemed to tell a story and create a new space around every corner. Some seemed to have faces carved in them, others created natural doorways to crawl through. I felt like a child, exploring all the turns and climbing to the highest rock and staring down at the ant-like people far below. I laid back on the top ridge feeling the hard stone, smooth under my back, creating a natural upward arch and opening my heart to the sky.
Huge rain clouds loomed in the distance and at times a light mist would fall. I wished I wasn’t hungry, or cold and wet from the rain. I would have stayed and rested in the grass looking up at these giants all afternoon. As it was, I pushed my body to its limit and stayed for a few hours enjoying the energy of the place. If I ever come to New Zealand again, I’ll make room for more time here. Castle Hill really is a like a castle, full of magic, built by mother nature, and I was queen of it for a fleeting moment.
Helpful Information:
Castle Hill is near Arthur’s Pass on the South Island of New Zealand. It’s an easy, flat walk from the car park to the site. There are restrooms at the location, while a petrol station and cafe are located in Arthur’s Pass up the road. For more information place visit this website.
Sheri,
Strong -Bold – Beautiful! Just as you are!!
Love – Aunt Kathi
Thanks Aunt Kathi. Love to you from across the miles.
WHAT AN AMAZING PLACE … I CAN FEEL THE STRENGTH OF THE STONES.
I CAN ALWAYS COUNT ON YOU TO TAKE ME TO NEW UNIQUE PLACES IN THIS WORLD.
I WAS JUST THINKING THAT I MISSED YOUR WRITINGS AND PHOTOS AND
THEN I HAD THIS CASTLE HILL EMAIL FROM YOU TODAY.
I’M HAPPY.
LOVE TO YOU.
JUNE
Thanks June! The stones were amazing. Love you.
Just beautiful… All of it, photos, words, feelings, all of it! If you get to Alaska, you will enjoy our natural beauty also!
I’m pretty sure I’m coming! I can’t wait to see where you live and the beauty there. I know Alaska will be beautiful and it will be great to see you again!
Love the new piece. It’s always fun to join you on your adventure while I’m still on mine :). Big hugs and can’t wait to read the next one.
Thanks Mira! xo Hope your journey continues to be awesome. Miss you.