by Jim and Gisela Spires | Jan 25, 2012 | AU-NZ 2012
Just a few minutes from our campground in Napier is the famous Classic Sheepskin Factory. We all met for a 9AM tour and shopping. It’s amazing and a bit sad to see the thousands of skins heaped by color and quality. We made purchases from warm house shoes to...
by Jim and Gisela Spires | Jan 23, 2012 | AU-NZ 2012
Today is full of surprise after surprise as we visit New Zealand’s most colorful geothermal area, Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland and turquoise Huka Falls. Did I say colorful geothermal area? The brilliant blue sky, full of warm sun made the colors at the sulphur...
by Jim and Gisela Spires | Jan 21, 2012 | AU-NZ 2012
Today we arrive in Rotorua in the heart of the thermal and volcanic area of New Zealand. A beautiful clock tower dominates the town and is the symbol of Rotorua. Everywhere I smell a sulphur odor. It is a constant reminder of the bubbling and escaping steam that I...
by Jim and Gisela Spires | Jan 20, 2012 | AU-NZ 2012
I don’t believe I have seen sheep in so many sizes. Can you believe New Zealanders keep at least 19 breeds of sheep? Yes, we saw 19 different breeds at the Agrodome here in Rotorua on our second day. They even gave us a sheep shearing demonstration. Wow, can they...
by Jim and Gisela Spires | Jan 19, 2012 | AU-NZ 2012
I waited a lifetime for the experience of being in a Maori village. There is always a segment on the Maori culture when I watch the Travel Channel back home when they do a program on New Zealand. I have watch the Maori warriors stick out their tongues so many...
