Sunday, February 11, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Auckland, New Zealand

Where in the World Are We?

In Auckland, New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
EXPLORE THE HISTORY OF THE CREATION OF NEW ZEALAND
Maori culture is essentially based on oral traditions that have passed down history, legends, and values over the millennia.
One of them tells the story of how the North Island and the South Island were created.
Maui, the demigod who tamed the sun and gave mankind fire, had four brothers.
One day, he overheard them preparing to go fishing at sea without him. Not wanting to be left on land alone by his brothers, Maui hid in his brothers’ canoe. He waited until they were far enough out to sea to emerge from his hiding place. So he could start fishing with his brothers.

Maui had made himself a fishing hook from the magic jawbone of an ancestor. He threw the magic hook and after a short time, got a bite that seemed to be quite big. With the help of his brothers, he gently brought his catch up from the depths. To everyone’s surprise, they had caught a gigantic fish: Te Ika a Maui (Maui’s fish) known today as the North Island.

Maui then proceeded to thank Tangaroa, the god of the oceans, for this exceptional new catch, but before he could finish his prayer, his brothers cut off parts of it, creating the valleys, mountains, and lakes that can still be admired on North Island today.
The five brothers left their canoe next to the giant fish: this is Te Waka on Maui (Maui’s Canoe), now known as South Island. It is said that the Kaikoura Peninsula, on the west coast of the island, is the site of the canoe’s headquarters, where Maui stood to reel in his catch. The canoe’s anchor, “Punga a Maui”, became Stewart Island-Rakiura.

FARMERS’ MARKET IN MATAKANA
Matakana’s beautiful beaches, boutique vineyards, local arts scene, and picturesque village with a superb farmers’ market make this region a wonderful destination for tourists and locals alike. Pick up organic, seasonal produce, or savor some fresh delicacies by the river’s edge at the Matakana Village Farmers Market.

SIGHTS

• Auckland Zoo
• Cornwall Park
• New Zealand Maritime Museum
• Albert Park
• Auckland Botanic Gardens
• Rangitoto Island

Today’s Excursion – Maritime Museum, Harbour Sailing & City Sights
We experience the spectacular beauty, history, and landmarks of Auckland during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion by
land and water.
Auckland, Downtown Area, Parnell Village, Auckland Domain, Auckland Harbour Bridge
We departed the pier for a scenic sightseeing drive through Auckland’s lovely downtown area. Along the way, we noted the contrast between the city’s modern structures and the restored Victorian buildings in the suburbs. From here, we drove through Parnell Village, which features trendy shops, boutiques, and an exceptional collection of art galleries in restored, Colonial-era buildings. Our drive continues past Auckland Domain, home to beautiful-manicured gardens, and the stately Auckland War Memorial Museum. From here, we drove across the Auckland Harbour Bridge, then stopped for splendid views and photo opportunities at a scenic viewpoint.

New Zealand Maritime Museum, Galleries, Exhibits, Models, Books, Photographs, Artefacts
We proceeded for a guided tour of the New Zealand Maritime Museum. The bond between New Zealand and the ocean is
presented, preserved, and celebrated in this exceptional museum. We took a guided walking tour and explored the galleries and exhibits detailing the nautical history of New Zealand, from the earliest Polynesian settlers to today. An extensive collection of models, photographs, books, drawings, and artifacts were displayed for our enjoyment.

Waitemata Harbour Cruise, Ted Ashby, Westhaven Marina, Auckland Harbour Bridge, Inner-Harbour
Leaving the museum, we embarked on the Ted Ashby, a heritage sailing vessel, for a scenic, 45-minute cruise along the sparkling waters of Waitemata Harbour. We cruised past Westhaven Marina, the largest yacht marina in the Southern Hemisphere, then sailed past the Auckland Harbour Bridge and inner harbor.

Dinner was at La Terrazza with a Spanish Family Night theme

Check out today’s Chronicle