New Zealand

In 2006 my husband and I took an Expedition Cruise to New Zealand. This type of cruising is in small ships, usually less than 100 passengers, and often travel is to out of the way locations and ports. The ships are staffed with geologists, scientists, wildlife and tribal experts relevant to the destination. Each day passengers board Zodiacs to explore the area, and when they return to the ship the specialists offer lessons and discussion about that day’s experiences. 

In New Zealand, we travelled first to the North Island, home to most of the cities and citizens. The cities have wonderful parks and gardens, so the respect for nature is evident everywhere. The South Island is more remote, largely wild and uninhabited by humans, and laced with mountains, sounds, glaciers and abundant wildlife. New Zealanders show their respect for the environment in tangible ways. For example, when the ground nesting and flightless kiwi bird population was threatened by invasive predators like rats, weasels and possums that came on ships from abroad, New Zealanders dedicated a small island to the birds, too far offshore for the mammals to swim. To further protect the birds, human visitors are required to step in a bowl of disinfectant before entering. Once onto the island, the bird song is a constant, loud and joyous symphony like I have never heard before.  

Originally New Zealand was inhabited by the Maori people, but unlike most countries, the natives were not decimated when settlers came from Europe. Instead, since the 1800’s, the Maori’s have negotiated protective treaties, not only retaining their native land and customs, but also to hold seats in the national government. They are included in decisions addressing social justice issues, as well as sports and entertainment. Today 1 in 7 New Zealanders identify as Maori. 

Click on this 3 minute slide show for a taste of this remarkable country. Enjoy!