New Zealand's beautiful Coromandel Peninsula

Greetings from Aotearoa! 

We've been touring through some beautiful country here on the North Island of New Zealand. The Coromandel Peninsula has some of the most pristine forests we've found so far in this part of the country and the ocean views are stunning.  We are beginning to find a few more tourists roaming the various sight seeing locations but by no means are we encountering large crowds anywhere yet.

The good news is that New Zealanders appear to be traveling locally over the winter school holiday break which last for two weeks.  Many of the hotel and pub owners we've talked to are seeing some nice increases in business during this usually slow time for them.  It seems Kiwi's like to lounge on warm sunny beaches during their winter break just like American's do so generally they would head out of the country to a beach resort somewhere in the Pacific or Asia.  So for now, the locals are grateful for the patronage and hoping that by summer, the borders will once again be open for international tourists which spend millions in New Zealand each year.

These giant native Kauri trees are estimated to be 600+ years old

Rainforest and waterfalls, it's starting to look very south pacific like

Very few of these native Kauri's survived the logging saw, but this one did and has a massive diameter

Cathedral Cove is spectacular

These rock island remnants dot the coast

Hot water beach is a fun spot to do a hot mineral water soak right on the beach.  The boiling hot water literally bubbles up out of holes you dig in the sand.  We found  some hearty souls in their bathing suits soaking away and then wandering off into the ocean for a cool down.  Since the air temperature was in the low 50's, we opted for a foot soak instead!

How fun is this!

During our travels, we have found some interesting signs that make us giggle.  

You gotta watch out for trees in this part of New Zealand!

Well, maybe some days.........


Driving in New Zealand, one begins to understand just how practical Kiwi's tend to be.  We have encountered one lane bridges on two lane highways all over this country.  You'll be driving full speed down a highway, when suddenly a one lane bridge appears.  At least the ones we've found on the North Island give you the rules of the road.  

Why spend the money to build both lanes when one will do???

In this area, mussels and claims are "farmed" for local consumption as well as export.  We've been enjoying the feasts from the sea as it is something we have missed since leaving Florida.  Kiwi's tend to eat mostly beef, lamb and pork.  Fish tends to be fried and served as Fish n Chips.  

Green lipped muscles serves with tarragon cream sauce........TASTY

Pub grub, New Zealand style

Next stop is Auckland for some hustle and bustle of city life along with some warmer temperatures.

 

Cheers to a good summer filled with lots of outdoor activities to keep you healthy.

Stay safe y'all.

Dan & Cheryl




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