The Waitangi Treaty Grounds is quiet first thing in the morning, though that will soon change as the cruise ship passengers arrive for their tours. The cafe is equally quiet when Ngati Kawa Taituha, Chairman of the Waitangi Marae, comes in to join me. Together, Maori New Zealander and Jewish American, we sit down to…
The journey from Auckland to Paihia at the famous Bay of Islands in the Northland of New Zealand takes about four hours by bus, and is a destination in itself, as Highway 1 winds up the beautiful coast and drops into lovely valleys. But once there, Bay of Islands truly offers activities for everyone, no…
To visit Auckland and not get on a ferry would be a shame, and a crime. The city is built around the waters of Hauraki Gulf, and its many islands and peninsulas beckon. For those seeking a short boat ride and to avoid either the crowds of Waiheke Island or the strenuous hiking of Rangitoto,…
Auckland reminds me a lot of Seattle, which is probably not a lot of help to those of you who have never been to Seattle. It is built around the water, with an iconic skyline up a slight hill, and ferries running to various islands and peninsulas. Seafood is abundant, and cute shopping districts, museums,…