Our first morning in Paihia, we visited a living Maori cultural pa (place of religious sanctity) and learn a great deal about Maori culture, past and present. The Maori people are of Polynesian heritage, and were the first people to settle on the islands of New Zealand over 600 years ago. There cultural heritage is very similar to the people of Hawaii and Alaska, although they pride themselves on their unique history and heritage.

That afternoon, we took a bay-tour on a catamaran with the hopes of swimming with the dolphins, but alas we saw no dolphins that day. We did, however, enjoy a dip in the South Pacific Ocean!

Well, Mom and I enjoyed a dip; Mike videotaped our escapade and enjoyed being jibed by our guide about having to travel with the wife and mother-in-law!

During the return trip to Paihia, Mom conversed with our attractive guide, Andy.

Click HERE to see more photos of our trip to NZ!!!

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