Feb 5. Rotorua (Tauranga), New Zealand

Located on the Bay of Plenty, the Port of Tauranga is watched over by Mt. Maunganui, an extinct volcano that helps shape this particular region of white sand beaches and azure waters. The Maori people arrived here in the 13th century, followed by the British 600 years later. Today, the city is home to a thriving cultural scene and beautiful mountains rising from the surrounding waters. Taurangao is best known as the gateway to the bubbling mud pools and thermal fields of Rotorua. The local Maori believe this cauldron-like region to be a gift of fire from the Gods. We only had one day here but could easily have spent several. Maori natives have thrived in the past 60 years. Prior to 1960, they were almost wiped out due to assimilation, disease, poor living conditions, and racism. Today, New Zealand is one of the safest and least corrupt countries in the world. It is also the first country to allow women to vote! They also have more pipe bands per capita than Scotland!

Julie hiked Mt. Maunganui in the morning. In the afternoon, we toured rolling farmlands and kiwi fruit orchards. Second only to timber, kiwi fruit is the island's largest export (they are very difficult to grow).

On the way to the orchards, our guide explained a familiar problem with high costs of living & housing costs. As in many progressive cities, young people can't afford to buy houses. They need 20% down before they can even attempt to buy. Average home costs (away from the coastal beaches) is $700,000.

The beach town is very beautiful and pristine. Government workers rake the sand every morning!Read more