TAURANGA NEW ZEALAND

TAURANGA, NEW ZEALAND

Tauranga is a holiday destination for Australians and New Zealanders.  Surrounded by beaches and hiking trails for the physically active.  Our plan was to hike Mt. Maunganui, a 750 foot “mountain” located right near where the ship docks.  It seems that two weeks ago they had a cyclone which caused mudslides, wiping out all the trails.  The park is closed until further notice, most likely many months.  So  much for planning ahead.  We took the free shuttle into the town, about 5 miles from the dock.  A small but pleasing town with many shops and best of all, a barber!  It’s been five weeks since my last haircut and a haircut on the ship runs about $50 including tip.  The barber was originally from Scotland, very loquacious and did a fine job for NZ$20 (about US$16). 

Gina, being in the same hair situation, found a place to get her hair cut also.  She made an appointment but we had to kill 45 minutes so we spotted a railroad trestle that crossed over water for about ½ mile and had a walking path attached.  Off we went across what could only be described as a rickety roadway, dodging bicycles coming from the opposite direction.  But the beauty was that from our lofty position above the water we were able to spot two of the largest rays I have ever seen, meandering near the surface of the bay.  These were not like the little grey ones you see at sting ray city in Grand Cayman.  They appeared to be black on the surface with white undersides and possessed the longest tails I can ever recall seeing.  Serendipity at its finest.

Gina’s hairdresser also gave us a tip for the best fish & chips in town!  Nestled down on the  waterfront was the sign we were looking for: “FISH MARKET”.  You could pick out your fish at the market and have it fried before your eyes. Served along with what was, arguably, the best French Fries on this side of London.  “take away” orders were wrapped up in newspaper, reminding us of the Shetlands where we last had similar fish and chips.  Certainly not the healthiest lunch we’ve had, but yummy!

In port with us was one of Amsterdam’s sister ships, Volendam.  She was on a series of 14 day R/T Sydney cruises to New Zealand.  I’m not sure the town appreciated the excessive horn blowing between the two ships as we sailed out of port.  I really think New Zealand would be a great place to fly to and spend a couple of weeks touring on your own.

Joe Wagg