New Zealand Locations
Waipoua Forest
Waipoua Forest is located on the tip of North Island. The forest is home to Tane Mahuta, New Zealand's largest known living kauri tree. Waipoua forest was bought from the Maori in 1876 for around 2000 pounds. It was declared a sanctuary in 1952, the sanctuary covers around 80 km2 and it contains 3/4 of New Zealand's kauri trees. In 2007 the forest was threatened by a wildfire that started by someone cooking mussels over on open fire. The fire came within 3km of Tane Mahuta and destroyed oven 2km2 of vegetation. It killed and estimated 20 North island brown kiwis.
The Waipoua forest is home to the largest population of North island brown kiwi. The north island brown kiwi is the most common of all the kiwis. The north island kokako is also found in the Waipoua forest. The north island kokako has blue wattles, while the south island kokako has orange wattles. The north island kokako is endangered, and the south island kokako was formally declared extinct on 16 January 2007.
Links
http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-visit/northland/kauri-coast/waipoua-forest/
http://www.absoluteastronomy.com/topics/Waipoua_Forest
Some photos
http://www.hickerphoto.com/data/media/152/waipoua-forest_9420.jpg
http://cache.virtualtourist.com/926560-BIg_Kauri_Tree_Waipoua-Waipoua_Forest.jpg
Hamilton
We will be staying in Hamilton from January 10 to the 27th at the University of Waikato. Hamilton is on North Island and it is New Zealand's largest inland city. The Maori from the Tainui waka inhabited Hamilton for 700-800 years until 1863 when the land was confiscated by the crown.
While in Hamilton, there are plenty of things to do. Kayaks and canoes can be rented,or you can go rock climbing, zorbing and hiking. We will be visiting white island (January 16) and Waitomo glowworm caves (Jan 18). Hamilton also has Waikato Museum and Putaruru Timber Museum. The Waitakaruru Sculpture Park and Arboretum has 60 to 90 sculptures along a 2km trail. SOUL Gallery has a variety of jewelry, wall art, and ceramics. The Robinson Sports Museum is a good place to go if you are interested in sports history and old sporting equipment. If you want to hike, Taitua Arboretum has an excellent collection of mature trees. Other hiking spots include Waikato River Trail Lake Ngaroto Marokopa Falls, the Te Waihou Walkway and the Bridal Veil Falls. Ruakuri Scenic Reserve has beautiful limestone outcrops (it is about one hour from Hamilton).
Links
http://www.visithamilton.co.nz/
http://www.waikato.ac.nz/home.shtml (University of Waikato website)
http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/tracks-and-walks/waikato/maniapoto/ruakuri-walk/ (Ruakuri Scenic Reserve site)
Some photos
http://www.visithamilton.co.nz/photogallery.aspx?category=297&image=3153
http://www.visithamilton.co.nz/photogallery.aspx?category=297&image=3146
Katy Ames
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Kristen Beebe- sorry
Dear Dr. Art Trembanis,
Sorry for being so casual in my previous emai concerning who I wrote to. Also,
if the attachment is not what you prefer, I copied the text:Kristen Beebe
Winter Study Abroad 2010- New Zealand
Paihia
Paihia is known as the jewel of the Bay of Islands, located in the far north of the
north island of New Zealand. This tropical town is one of the most popular
tourist destinations due to several reasons. Cultural centers, beaches, scenic
beauty, and fun food and drink make the spot ideal for the vacationer. From the
dolphin sight seeing tours to the Wharepuke subtropical gardens, there is
always something to entertain oneself in Paihia.
To begin, there are several recreational activities for one to experience
while vacationing in this location. Salt water fishing is a popular sport due to the
abundant species of salt water fish in the bay. The Earl Grey Fishing Charters are
based here and are one of the most popular companies to operate out of Paihia.
Beautiful beaches abound in Paihia excellent for simply relaxing or observing
the wonder of New Zealand. Adding to the whimsy quality of the bay is the
constant steamboat cruises.
The historical importance of Paihia is remarkable. One of the most
important sites to visit is the Waitangi Treaty Grounds which overlooks the Bay
of Islands. At this location, the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed between
Maori and the British Crown on February 6, 1840; this date is now celebrated
lavishly as a national holiday for all New Zealanders to enjoy. Also, cricket was
first invented here and is practiced across the region with great pride. Watching
games of cricket would be a lovely event for one to attend while visiting the
region. Another building of interest in the Maritime building which is located
along the northern coast. This is a beautiful location to shop or enjoy the breezy
shoreline.
All across Paihia is a variety of shops, cultural centers, and restaurants.
These locations embody the culture and regional tastes experienced by the bay.
For example, Hansen's café is a quaint coffee shop that overlooks the heavenly
bay. New Zealanders enjoys coffee and pridefully offer it across the area. The
Bistro 40 Restaurant is also a good example of the cuisine that characterizes the
town. With a fancy for seafood, specializing in a fish of the day, this restaurant
artfully exemplifies the desire for fresh ocean caught fish that makes the
experience worthwhile.
The following link provide some images of the region:
1. Seafood Café - http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/5493049.jpg
2. The jetty- http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/17693296.jpg
3.Town center- http://www.panoramio.com/photo/10180709
Taupo
The second region of research is called Taupo, which is located in the
center of the north island of New Zealand. This location was built on the shores
of Lake Taupo which serves as one of the main tourist attractions in New
Zealand, providing the ability to boat, fish, and enjoy the nature of the
subtropical region. This town is more of a quaint getaway compared to the first
town which information was gathered for. This town has a rather suburban
aspect with the beautiful countryside providing golf courses and nature trails.
The Huka Falls Resort exemplifies the spacious countryside. The Huka Falls are a
set of waterfalls on the Waikato River that drain into Lake Taupo and are
beautiful to see.
Taupo bolsters several religious locations of interest including St. Patrick's
Catholic Church and Bahai'I Faith. These places reflect the Christian influence of
the crown on the country and are beautifully architectural wonders to admire.
As well, the everyday aspects of the town are something unique to be enjoyed,
including the food markets which provide an energetic look into the daily lives
of the townspeople. Even a fun entertainment park for children and adults alike
is located here called Taupo Adventure Park where one can get lost in mazes or
try his or her hand at a game of mini golf.
The following links are images of Taupo:
1. Beautiful waterfront- http://www.panoramio.com/photo/10900431
2. Internet Café- http://www.panoramio.com/photo/10688986
3. Lake Taupo Marina- http://www.panoramio.com/photo/16014298
Sorry for being so casual in my previous emai concerning who I wrote to. Also,
if the attachment is not what you prefer, I copied the text:Kristen Beebe
Winter Study Abroad 2010- New Zealand
Paihia
Paihia is known as the jewel of the Bay of Islands, located in the far north of the
north island of New Zealand. This tropical town is one of the most popular
tourist destinations due to several reasons. Cultural centers, beaches, scenic
beauty, and fun food and drink make the spot ideal for the vacationer. From the
dolphin sight seeing tours to the Wharepuke subtropical gardens, there is
always something to entertain oneself in Paihia.
To begin, there are several recreational activities for one to experience
while vacationing in this location. Salt water fishing is a popular sport due to the
abundant species of salt water fish in the bay. The Earl Grey Fishing Charters are
based here and are one of the most popular companies to operate out of Paihia.
Beautiful beaches abound in Paihia excellent for simply relaxing or observing
the wonder of New Zealand. Adding to the whimsy quality of the bay is the
constant steamboat cruises.
The historical importance of Paihia is remarkable. One of the most
important sites to visit is the Waitangi Treaty Grounds which overlooks the Bay
of Islands. At this location, the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed between
Maori and the British Crown on February 6, 1840; this date is now celebrated
lavishly as a national holiday for all New Zealanders to enjoy. Also, cricket was
first invented here and is practiced across the region with great pride. Watching
games of cricket would be a lovely event for one to attend while visiting the
region. Another building of interest in the Maritime building which is located
along the northern coast. This is a beautiful location to shop or enjoy the breezy
shoreline.
All across Paihia is a variety of shops, cultural centers, and restaurants.
These locations embody the culture and regional tastes experienced by the bay.
For example, Hansen's café is a quaint coffee shop that overlooks the heavenly
bay. New Zealanders enjoys coffee and pridefully offer it across the area. The
Bistro 40 Restaurant is also a good example of the cuisine that characterizes the
town. With a fancy for seafood, specializing in a fish of the day, this restaurant
artfully exemplifies the desire for fresh ocean caught fish that makes the
experience worthwhile.
The following link provide some images of the region:
1. Seafood Café - http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/5493049.jpg
2. The jetty- http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/17693296.jpg
3.Town center- http://www.panoramio.com/photo/10180709
Taupo
The second region of research is called Taupo, which is located in the
center of the north island of New Zealand. This location was built on the shores
of Lake Taupo which serves as one of the main tourist attractions in New
Zealand, providing the ability to boat, fish, and enjoy the nature of the
subtropical region. This town is more of a quaint getaway compared to the first
town which information was gathered for. This town has a rather suburban
aspect with the beautiful countryside providing golf courses and nature trails.
The Huka Falls Resort exemplifies the spacious countryside. The Huka Falls are a
set of waterfalls on the Waikato River that drain into Lake Taupo and are
beautiful to see.
Taupo bolsters several religious locations of interest including St. Patrick's
Catholic Church and Bahai'I Faith. These places reflect the Christian influence of
the crown on the country and are beautifully architectural wonders to admire.
As well, the everyday aspects of the town are something unique to be enjoyed,
including the food markets which provide an energetic look into the daily lives
of the townspeople. Even a fun entertainment park for children and adults alike
is located here called Taupo Adventure Park where one can get lost in mazes or
try his or her hand at a game of mini golf.
The following links are images of Taupo:
1. Beautiful waterfront- http://www.panoramio.com/photo/10900431
2. Internet Café- http://www.panoramio.com/photo/10688986
3. Lake Taupo Marina- http://www.panoramio.com/photo/16014298
updated attractions
Trevor Anderson
Motuti Marae:
The Motuti Marae is located off the Hokianga Harbour in North Land, New Zealand. A marae is a sacred place that serves both religious and social purposes. The Catholic faith is still a large part of the culture and traditions of Maori in Hokianga, and the Motuti Marae experience is based on the "whanu" or family, which is the heart of Mouti and New Zealand Maori culture. Visitors are welcomed to become part of the whanu and learn traditional weaving, poi-making, "waiata" (songs), "haka" (traditional dance), "kemu" (stick games) and bone and wood carving. Carving is an important cultural tradition for Maori, as the carvings represent different ancestors and relate the history and stories of the Hokianga Harbour.
Known to by the Maori as Te Kohanga, the Hokianga Harbour is a long estuarine drowned valley located on the west coast in the northwest of the North Land. It extends 70 kilometers inland from the Tasman Sea, and has a low population, meaning there are plenty of open beaches. The climate is generally mild throughout the entire year, allowing gardens to grow well in this area, and the estuary consists of a tidal river system lined with mangroves, small harbourside towns and family farms.
Whakatane:
In the Eastern Bay of Plenty in the North Island of New Zealand, right next to the Pacific Ocean, sits the town of Whakatane. One of the sunniest towns in New Zealand, its warm waters are world-famous for deep sea fishing and marine sports, and more yellow-fin tuna are caught here than anywhere else in the country. Here, one can relax on the sands of Ohope Beach, take a White Island live volcano tour, go whale watching and dolphin swimming, walk or run the Nga Tapuwae O Toi bush track, and watch rare sea birds at Ohiwa Harbour. Other Whakatane attractions include the museum, an observatory and Maori historical sites. There is plenty to do at Whakatane.
Whakatane is the gateway to White Island, which is one of the world's few accessible live volcanoes. Located 48 kilometers off the coast of Whakatane makes White Island easily accessible by boat or helicopter, and one could even take a scenic flight around the island. The acid lake in the island's depths offers an unforgettable insight into nature's primal creativity. White Island is also a great scuba diving destination as it provides a unique dive experience where one can explore the underwater steam vents or commune with large schools of fish.
http://www.motuti.co.nz/
http://www.motuti.co.nz/?q=gallery
Motuti Marae:
The Motuti Marae is located off the Hokianga Harbour in North Land, New Zealand. A marae is a sacred place that serves both religious and social purposes. The Catholic faith is still a large part of the culture and traditions of Maori in Hokianga, and the Motuti Marae experience is based on the "whanu" or family, which is the heart of Mouti and New Zealand Maori culture. Visitors are welcomed to become part of the whanu and learn traditional weaving, poi-making, "waiata" (songs), "haka" (traditional dance), "kemu" (stick games) and bone and wood carving. Carving is an important cultural tradition for Maori, as the carvings represent different ancestors and relate the history and stories of the Hokianga Harbour.
Known to by the Maori as Te Kohanga, the Hokianga Harbour is a long estuarine drowned valley located on the west coast in the northwest of the North Land. It extends 70 kilometers inland from the Tasman Sea, and has a low population, meaning there are plenty of open beaches. The climate is generally mild throughout the entire year, allowing gardens to grow well in this area, and the estuary consists of a tidal river system lined with mangroves, small harbourside towns and family farms.
Whakatane:
In the Eastern Bay of Plenty in the North Island of New Zealand, right next to the Pacific Ocean, sits the town of Whakatane. One of the sunniest towns in New Zealand, its warm waters are world-famous for deep sea fishing and marine sports, and more yellow-fin tuna are caught here than anywhere else in the country. Here, one can relax on the sands of Ohope Beach, take a White Island live volcano tour, go whale watching and dolphin swimming, walk or run the Nga Tapuwae O Toi bush track, and watch rare sea birds at Ohiwa Harbour. Other Whakatane attractions include the museum, an observatory and Maori historical sites. There is plenty to do at Whakatane.
Whakatane is the gateway to White Island, which is one of the world's few accessible live volcanoes. Located 48 kilometers off the coast of Whakatane makes White Island easily accessible by boat or helicopter, and one could even take a scenic flight around the island. The acid lake in the island's depths offers an unforgettable insight into nature's primal creativity. White Island is also a great scuba diving destination as it provides a unique dive experience where one can explore the underwater steam vents or commune with large schools of fish.
http://www.motuti.co.nz/
http://www.motuti.co.nz/?q=gallery
Addison Reid
The first inhabitants of what is now known as Christchurch, New Zealand were moa-hunting tribes whom eventually hunted these flightless birds to extinction. These inhabitants were followed by the Waitaha tribe. Control of the Waitaha tribe and the Ngati Mamoe tribe was taken by the Ngai Tahu tribe until the settling of the European people. The first European settlers landed in Canterbury in 1815. By 1850 Europeans were operating whaling ships out of the Lyttelton Harbor, at about the same time a group of European settlers founded the city of Christchurch after arriving in Lyttelton Harbor. Christchurch became a city on July 31, 1856 by Royal Charter. Christchurch is officially the oldest established city in New Zealand.
The geology of the Canterbury region of New Zealand, where the city of Christchurch is located, is very unique. The Southern Alps are seen clearly from anywhere in Christchurch. These mountains are composed of greywacke and were formed 230 to 170 million years ago. Present day mountains in this area began forming 26 million years ago and continue today. The Banks Peninsula is an important part of the geology of the Canterbury region. Over millions of years, two volcanoes have linked due to eruptions of basalt. In recent geological history, alluvial fans have linked this volcano to the Southern Island. Also, due to movement of faults in the Canterbury region, there has been a history of earthquakes. It is suspected that the movement of these faults will cause earthquake damage in the future.
In 2001, Christchurch had a population of 334,107 people. This is the most populated district of the Canterbury region. Although the region of Canterbury has the most people of European descent of the country, most of the Maori people of this area are centered on the city of Christchurch. The city of Christchurch is known as Garden city for all the amazing gardens throughout this area. Some of the many gardens include Mona Vale, Botanic Gardens and the Ilam Homestead. The people of Christchurch enjoy the mountains, beaches, lakes and parks that are all within close vicinity.
http://www.christchurch.org.nz/About/
http://eeg.geoscienceworld.org/cgi/content/abstract/1/4/427
http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/canterbury-region/2
White Island is located in the Taupo Volcanic Zone in the North Island of New Zealand. It is the largest volcanic structure in country with 70 percent of the volcano under the sea. The steam from the eruptions of this volcano can be seen 10km into the sky on a clear day. The upper slopes of this island were previously mined for sulfur in the early 1900's. In 1914 mining stopped after the collapse of a crater wall that killed 12 miners. The sulfur was used for fertilizers, the export of sulfur ore and the manufacturing of sulfuric acid. The Maori name for the island translates to "The Dramatic Volcano" and "that which can be made visible." In 1952, White Island became a private scenic reserve and until 1995 the public had free access to the island. The island is now under permit controlled access.
White Island has no vegetation and instead as you travel around the island you see that the ground is covered by sulfur crystals. In the waters surrounding the island there is marine life such as dolphins, and many bird species. There are large colonies of Gannets that nest on the island and you can see them clearly as you approach the island.
http://www.gns.cri.nz/what/earthact/volcanoes/nzvolcanoes/newwhitei.html
http://www.tourism.net.nz/nz-places/white-island-new-zealand.html
http://www.wi.co.nz/
The first inhabitants of what is now known as Christchurch, New Zealand were moa-hunting tribes whom eventually hunted these flightless birds to extinction. These inhabitants were followed by the Waitaha tribe. Control of the Waitaha tribe and the Ngati Mamoe tribe was taken by the Ngai Tahu tribe until the settling of the European people. The first European settlers landed in Canterbury in 1815. By 1850 Europeans were operating whaling ships out of the Lyttelton Harbor, at about the same time a group of European settlers founded the city of Christchurch after arriving in Lyttelton Harbor. Christchurch became a city on July 31, 1856 by Royal Charter. Christchurch is officially the oldest established city in New Zealand.
The geology of the Canterbury region of New Zealand, where the city of Christchurch is located, is very unique. The Southern Alps are seen clearly from anywhere in Christchurch. These mountains are composed of greywacke and were formed 230 to 170 million years ago. Present day mountains in this area began forming 26 million years ago and continue today. The Banks Peninsula is an important part of the geology of the Canterbury region. Over millions of years, two volcanoes have linked due to eruptions of basalt. In recent geological history, alluvial fans have linked this volcano to the Southern Island. Also, due to movement of faults in the Canterbury region, there has been a history of earthquakes. It is suspected that the movement of these faults will cause earthquake damage in the future.
In 2001, Christchurch had a population of 334,107 people. This is the most populated district of the Canterbury region. Although the region of Canterbury has the most people of European descent of the country, most of the Maori people of this area are centered on the city of Christchurch. The city of Christchurch is known as Garden city for all the amazing gardens throughout this area. Some of the many gardens include Mona Vale, Botanic Gardens and the Ilam Homestead. The people of Christchurch enjoy the mountains, beaches, lakes and parks that are all within close vicinity.
http://www.christchurch.org.nz/About/
http://eeg.geoscienceworld.org/cgi/content/abstract/1/4/427
http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/canterbury-region/2
White Island is located in the Taupo Volcanic Zone in the North Island of New Zealand. It is the largest volcanic structure in country with 70 percent of the volcano under the sea. The steam from the eruptions of this volcano can be seen 10km into the sky on a clear day. The upper slopes of this island were previously mined for sulfur in the early 1900's. In 1914 mining stopped after the collapse of a crater wall that killed 12 miners. The sulfur was used for fertilizers, the export of sulfur ore and the manufacturing of sulfuric acid. The Maori name for the island translates to "The Dramatic Volcano" and "that which can be made visible." In 1952, White Island became a private scenic reserve and until 1995 the public had free access to the island. The island is now under permit controlled access.
White Island has no vegetation and instead as you travel around the island you see that the ground is covered by sulfur crystals. In the waters surrounding the island there is marine life such as dolphins, and many bird species. There are large colonies of Gannets that nest on the island and you can see them clearly as you approach the island.
http://www.gns.cri.nz/what/earthact/volcanoes/nzvolcanoes/newwhitei.html
http://www.tourism.net.nz/nz-places/white-island-new-zealand.html
http://www.wi.co.nz/
Rachel Schnaitman
Havelock
Havelock is a coastal village in the Marlborough region of New Zealand. It sits at the head of Pelorus Sound, one of the Marlborough Sounds.
State Highway 6 from Nelson to Blenheim passes through the town. Queen Charlotte Drive, which provides a shorter but very tortuous road to Picton proceeds east along the edge of the Sounds. Looking at the street view on google earth I saw many winding roads, similar to Queen Charlotte drive, that pass by mountains and lush green vegetation.
Some interesting facts about the town are that Havelock is the centre for much of the New Zealand green-lipped mussel industry and Havelock means "sea-war." Similarly, Havelock was named after Sir Henry Havelock, known from the Siege of Lucknow during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
http://www.jefferswood.co.nz/images/photos/overlooking-havelock-and-marlborough-sounds.jpg
The Bay of Islands
http://darch.lenuh.si/Datoteke/Slike/Najlepse%20plaze%20sveta/Bay%20of%20Islands,%20New%20Zealand.jpg
The Bay of Islands is an area in the Northland Region of the North Island of New Zealand. It is known for its fishing and sailing and its gorgeous scenery.
The bay itself is an irregular 16 km-wide inlet in the north-eastern coast of the island. A natural harbour, it has several arms which extend into the land, notably Waikare Inlet in the south and Kerikeri and Te Puna (Mangonui) inlets in the north-west. The Bay of Islands formed when the sea drowned a number of river valleys, creating an irregular and attractive coastline of more than 800 km. The area shows signs of volcanic activity, with many eruption outlets and lava flows. Its outer limits are marked by the headlands of Tokerau on the north and Rākaumangamanga on the south
The first European to visit the area was Captain Cook, who named the region in 1769. Interestingly, The Bay of Islands was the first area in New Zealand to be settled by Europeans. Whalers arrived towards the end of the 18th century, while the first missionaries settled in 1814.
The bay has many interesting historic towns including Paihia, Russell, Waitangi and Kerikeri. Russell, formerly known as Kororareka, was the first permanent European settlement in New Zealand, and dates from the early 1800s. Kerikeri contains many historic sites from the earliest European colonial settlement in the country. These include the Mission House, also called Kemp House, which is the oldest wooden structure still standing in New Zealand. The Stone Store, a former storehouse, is the oldest stone building in New Zealand, construction having begun on 19 April 1832.
While exploring google earth I found lots of really great pictures and I found several youtube videos. My favorite was a video that details some scenery and lots of marine mammals. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rf0fTdYw7rU&feature=player_embedded
Havelock
Havelock is a coastal village in the Marlborough region of New Zealand. It sits at the head of Pelorus Sound, one of the Marlborough Sounds.
State Highway 6 from Nelson to Blenheim passes through the town. Queen Charlotte Drive, which provides a shorter but very tortuous road to Picton proceeds east along the edge of the Sounds. Looking at the street view on google earth I saw many winding roads, similar to Queen Charlotte drive, that pass by mountains and lush green vegetation.
Some interesting facts about the town are that Havelock is the centre for much of the New Zealand green-lipped mussel industry and Havelock means "sea-war." Similarly, Havelock was named after Sir Henry Havelock, known from the Siege of Lucknow during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
http://www.jefferswood.co.nz/images/photos/overlooking-havelock-and-marlborough-sounds.jpg
The Bay of Islands
http://darch.lenuh.si/Datoteke/Slike/Najlepse%20plaze%20sveta/Bay%20of%20Islands,%20New%20Zealand.jpg
The Bay of Islands is an area in the Northland Region of the North Island of New Zealand. It is known for its fishing and sailing and its gorgeous scenery.
The bay itself is an irregular 16 km-wide inlet in the north-eastern coast of the island. A natural harbour, it has several arms which extend into the land, notably Waikare Inlet in the south and Kerikeri and Te Puna (Mangonui) inlets in the north-west. The Bay of Islands formed when the sea drowned a number of river valleys, creating an irregular and attractive coastline of more than 800 km. The area shows signs of volcanic activity, with many eruption outlets and lava flows. Its outer limits are marked by the headlands of Tokerau on the north and Rākaumangamanga on the south
The first European to visit the area was Captain Cook, who named the region in 1769. Interestingly, The Bay of Islands was the first area in New Zealand to be settled by Europeans. Whalers arrived towards the end of the 18th century, while the first missionaries settled in 1814.
The bay has many interesting historic towns including Paihia, Russell, Waitangi and Kerikeri. Russell, formerly known as Kororareka, was the first permanent European settlement in New Zealand, and dates from the early 1800s. Kerikeri contains many historic sites from the earliest European colonial settlement in the country. These include the Mission House, also called Kemp House, which is the oldest wooden structure still standing in New Zealand. The Stone Store, a former storehouse, is the oldest stone building in New Zealand, construction having begun on 19 April 1832.
While exploring google earth I found lots of really great pictures and I found several youtube videos. My favorite was a video that details some scenery and lots of marine mammals. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rf0fTdYw7rU&feature=player_embedded
Blog Entry
Locations: Mount Maunganui and Kaikoura
Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui is a town located on a peninsula in the Bay of Plenty, a popular coastal resort area. The town is overlooked by an extinct volcano of the same name (officially known by its Maori name, Mauao, and colloquially referred to as 'The Mount'). The town itself is situated on top of a sand bar that connects the volcano to the mainland (this structure type is known as a tombolo.)
According to Maori legend, Mauao was a once a nameless slave of a mountain called Otanewainuku. Mauao was in love with another hill, but was despaired to learn she had fallen for her captor. Deeply saddened, Mauao called upon the fairy people (Patupaiarehe) to help him drown into the sea. In the process, however, the fairy people were caught by the rising sun and forced to disappear. Therefore, the Maori name Mauao means 'caught by the dawn'.
Today, Mauao, 232 m high, attracts many to complete a thirty-minute hike to the summit. The 360 degree view on top is accompanied by possible sightings of several species of whales, dolphins, and sea lions. Surfing, volleyball, and diving are important recreations in this region. Mount Maunganui was once the site of a Maoria settlement (a pa) and its remains can still be seen. Mount Maunganui is also home to New Zealand's first artificial reef.
Kaikoura
Kaikoura is a town on the Kaikoura Peninsula on the east coast of New Zealand's southern island. The Kaikoura region is known for its unique combination of majestic, snowy mountain range (part of the Southern Alps) and its coast rich in marine life. The town itself is situated on a flat coastal plain that lies in between the Pacific Ocean and the mountains.
In Maori legend, Kaikoura is where Maui placed his foot when pulling up New Zealand's northern island from the sea. The name 'Kaikoura,' meaning meal of crayfish, comes from Tamaki-te-rangi, when he named it that after stopping there to eat when chasing his runaway wives. Crayfish remains an important part of the region's industry.
At several points along the coast, the mountain ranges drop right into the sea, a feature that has several implications for the aquatic environment found there. Because the Kaikoura Peninsula is an area of coastal upwelling, it boasts a great diversity of aquatic life. Of particular interest are several species that are brought up from the deep Hikurangi Trench as well as marine mammals such as Sperm Whales, Dusky Dolphins, and Southern Fur Seals. In addition, Kaikoura is one of the best places to observe sea birds such as albatrosses. Because of this, early European settlers used Kaikoura as a whaling station. Today, ecotourism is a major part of the region's economy.
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