My last post about travel only told part of the story about getting to New Zealand. No reason to go into travel detail but we arrived in Auckland about two hours later than scheduled. But I’m here!

The first exciting thing that happened was right as I passed through the passport check, a very friendly and large black lab greeted me by punching his nose at my small purse. So cute! And then there were two officers standing by me and asked if I had money. I showed them my New Zealand cash and said I also had American money. They wanted to see how much and told me that this dog is a money sniffing dog. My American money was a small amount so they said I could go. I told them that their dog was a very good dog! We tried working this out later and it may be that foreign entities are bringing large amounts of cash here to buy up properties. Not sure.

Now onto the more interesting part! I changed out of my Pacific NW clothing into cooler wear. The warmth and humidity was apparent just as I got off the plane. I followed the directions that friend Michael sent to me and arrived at the Ferry Building with both Michael and Johanna waving to me for our ride to Waiheke.

So great to see J&M and be welcomed so warmly! We had a lovely ride although it was very windy and there were a few swells along the way but very beautiful. The water color is a milky green, the hills bright green. It feels very tropical, Hawaii-esque, more tropical than Southern California.

After the choppy water we came into Matiatia Wharf which is the ferry landing for Waiheke Island. Already the feeling is much like the San Juan Islands.

Next up was taking the bus a short way to the stop close to the house where I’m staying with J&M. We walked through a small park, Allison Park, which has sculpture sprinkled throughout.

The sounds of cicadas, bird calls that are completely different from what I’m used to, different odors, bottlebrush blooming, the green water in the distance…a lovely arrival! And the we arrived home!

After a shower and a nap we went to friend Lynn’s home, about eight houses away, for a delicious dinner. Her garden is lush and her home filled with art and artifacts and her cat Lula. Everyone is so welcoming and kind…such a perfect arrival on this adventure!