Wellington New Zealand

Well, here we are in Wellington, New Zealand – Windy Welly as the natives call it! We have had beautiful weather and haven’t really experienced the big wind they talk about. We did have a little rain on our last day – but as soon as we stepped outside the blue sky appeared and the weather is lovely again! Our tour guide says we are a lucky group and have brought the good weather with us.

Wellington is at the southern tip of the North Island and directly across Cook Strait is South Island. Wellington is built around Wellington Harbor and is surrounded by steep hills. The main streets form a semicircle around the harbor with all the side streets going off at odd angles.

From our 6^th floor hotel room in the Amora Hotel we have a lovely view of the harbor and can watch the ships coming and going.

We arrived on Sunday evening. On Monday, February 15, we had our city tour.  One surprise was a visit to Weta Cave. It turns out to be the headquarters of the Peter Jackson movie making empire. We saw a movie about the history of the company and were quite amazed at all the movies they have worked on and all the special effects they have invented. We also saw the Roxy Cinema (an old Art Nauvoo theater), Mt. Victoria and part of the botanic gardens, and drove around the harbor.

In the afternoon we had a tour of the Parliament. What an interesting political set up the New Zealanders have. Can you believe that they do not even have a constitution? It is a little too complex for me to talk about, but it is a fascinating subject. The building itself is most gorgeous – lots of wood, stained glass, and art work. The Maori culture has also influenced some of the structure.

Suzanne at Te Papa

On Tuesday we visited the Te Papa Tongarewa, the National Museum of New Zealand. We had a wonderful guide who gave us a great feel for this country and increased our appreciation of its beauty and culture.

After a final shopping spree and a farewell dinner with our travel companions, we are heading for home!

Don at Wellington Harbor