We drove through lush Waikato countryside en route to Auckland, where we did a passenger drop off and pick off as well as a lunch stop before continuing north to the semitropical region of Northland. These are my few artistic shots of the foggy countryside.
We stopped to be tree-huggers at Parry Kauri Park, then traveled onto our resort in Paihia at Bay of Islands.
Not being one to let a day pass without some adventure, I went on the Flying Kiwi Parasail boat with five others on New Zealand’s highest parasail.
It was a nice way to see the bay from 1200 feet.
I'm excitedly getting geared up in the harness.
I started from a sitting position on the platform at the back of the boat, then just lifted up and off, similar to a helicopter. I kept floating up, higher and farther from the boat. I tried to tip upside down and backwards, but as far as I got was horizontal with an upside down view of the coastline behind me. It was a gentle, smooth ride – not exhilarating, but peaceful and relaxing.
As they reeled me in, they dunked my feet in the water which was surprisingly warm.
I landed in a standing position back where I started.
We had a big kiwi bbq dinner at the hotel and drinks on the balcony before venturing off to the Pipi Patch on the main drag for some quality nightlife.
Malcolm and Bridguet didn't take long to start dancing on top of things.
