Goodbye New Zealand

We made six stops in NZ. They ranged from the historical authenticity of the Māoris in Rotorua and Waitangi to the beauty of Auckland and Wellington, and finally, to the charm of Napier and Nelson. We eagerly anticipated experiencing the natural wonders of Millford and Doubtful Sounds, but alas, that’s not to be! We are diverting from our favorite part of this cruise (for the majority of passengers) directly to Sydney, Australia due to a ship pilot’s strike in Hobart, NZ. Oh well, we have to go with the flow and expect the unexpected.

One of the most impressive aspects of NZ is its people’s positive attitude, fairness and their willingness to help. In contrast to our country, where xenophobia bordering on racism is common, NZealanders are making conscious efforts to integrate native Māoris into their everyday life and seem to welcome all visitors.

The cities we visited were beautiful as you can see in the accompanying pictures of hanging sidewalk flower pots in Nelson and the cleanliness of the museum in Wellington. Auckland is exceptionally beautiful. Most local residents appear healthy and trim, with very few overweight individuals.

I have gone shopping for art supplies and medicines (no prescriptions needed for sea sickness ear patches), visited a private car museum in Nelson and a phenomenal Aquarium in Auckland. In spite of my aversion to museums in general, I really enjoyed the variety of exhibits in the Wellington National Museum as well as its beautiful architecture and location on the waterfront

NZ reminds me of what the US was like in the 1950s, when life was simpler and everyone worked together for the wellbeing of our country. NZ is one of the countries I would consider living in, if the opportunity presents itself.