Well I hope all my readers had a very enjoyable Christmas and New Year.
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John and I have just returned from a most enjoyable time on a 10-day cruise to New Zealand aboard the Carnival Legend.
On our first stop, we took the cable car up Mt. Wellington with its spectacular views, enjoyed the museum, and had a look around the Botanical Gardens and the Observatory.
After a day’s travelling we arrived at Akaroa on the South Island’s east coast. The small township normally has a population of about 700, but swelled with the arrival of our ship of 2,600 passengers plus the Radiance of the Seas.
We took a tour in a 1930 A model Ford with the delightful driver/owner Jack Porter. We also met the Town Crier complete with uniform. We then caught a shuttle bus to The Giant’s House, which I had been told about by friend Claudia O’Donnell of Wingham.
Despite the steep ascent we managed to get around the enchanted garden with its many mosaic sculptures and figurines and beautiful gardens - well worth the climb.
Next stop was Dunedin, where we passed by the famous Cadbury’s Chocolate Factory and went to the very impressive railway station that ranks ninth in the world for its architecture. We then toured along the Otago Peninsular to visit the famous Larnach Castle, set in beautiful gardens and manicured lawns. Our young coach driver Reece was excellent, giving a detailed history of the castle and its owners past and present.
Back to the ship for lunch and then it was off to see the Port Chalmers Maritime Historical Museum. There was a wonderful collection of shipping memorabilia and the volunteer staff were very helpful explaining the items to the many visitors.
From Dunedin, we sailed through the strait and up the west coast to visit Fiordland, including Dusky, Doubtful and finally the larger Milford Sound. Spectacular snow capped peaks, sheer mountain cliffs and numerous waterfalls - the most spectacular not far from Milford Sound township, were a photographer’s delight.
We enjoyed the final two days on board before entering Sydney Harbour. To see the Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and Fort Dennison is something special. It was great to be home again.
Most of Tinonee’s organisations are in recess until February, so there is little to report, although the Historical Society’s first meeting for 2017, was today, Wednesday, at 9am due to the scheduled date falling on Australia Day. Speaking of which, enjoy Australia Day, stand up and be proud, and show the flag, for we are a great country.