Kiwis to Pukekos

Twelve days with Beth and Hunter was food for the soul.  Hunter just ran into my arms and held on like a little koala bear.  Over their stay Hunter and I created a water color essay of their trip with Beth adding her special artist touches.

The Auckland Zoo was one of our first stops.  The animal habitats are so well designed and the kiwi house was incredible.  Once our eyes adjusted to the dark, we were treated to a a real live kiwi trekking through the leaves right next to the viewing glass.

The next day was on to the Auckland Aquarium with many more visual delights.

Unbelievable

New Zealand grown stingray!

A day at Maraetai Beach provided some great tidal pool explorations.

And castle building

Howick Historical Village orchestrates a treasure hunt for children.  Provided with a circles of clues that leads around the village, kids collect ribbons at the different buildings.

"Would you like a cuppa tea?"

A trip on the ferry to Devonport is always a wonderful way to spend a lazy Saturday afternoon ---- sidewalk cafes, stores to browse, huge park, and the best ice cream in New Zealand.

                                    You've got to love a place with knitted covers for its poles!

    Another pristine beach which gave Beth and Hunter the opportunity to do some wave jumping.

                     A child's delight --- hot thermal pools ---- one even with a big movie screen

Beth loving the ferry ride back home

Days filled with laughter, fun, and time together ---- the fodder of memories

Orewa

Walks in the rain

Tea time

A Great Visit!