Saturday was Waitangi Day, a public holiday to commemorate the signing of a treaty between the British settlers and the indigenous Maori people. The history here seems to be quite similar to that of the Native Americans – European folk came in, gave the Maori new diseases and drugs and then ‘graciously allowed’ them to come under British rule. Needless to say, there’s lots of controversy afoot during holiday weekends!
We made our way out to Rotorua, a touristy spot famous for its distinctive sulphury stench and bubbling mud pools. The area is a literal ‘hot bed’ of geothermal activity in the middle of the North Island – Mother Earth’s little reminder that you’re not safe from volcanic explosions and the like, even in paradise! We toured around the town, visited the lake and the mud pool gardens and then visited a traditional Maori village where they were putting on a small festival with native dancing and food vendors. I almost joined in… to bad I forgot my poi balls at home! ;)
Saturday evening, we had takeaways (take out food) from Zeytin and ate in the park by the harbor beach. Another gorgeous evening on the water! Then we visited the Stock Exchange bar for some big screen rugby and Josh got to try out his newfound knowledge of the game. Hmmm… I think I can get behind a game that’s faster and more dangerous than American football, especially when the fans wear funny costumes (think Power Puff Girls, Super Mario, and Avatar characters!) and the pre-game includes players dancing around shirtless! Go All Blacks!
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