An hour later, all the SCIL Travel Club members and Wheel The World staff were downstairs having breakfast at the Hilton's Fish Restaurant where the hotel provides their guests a generous buffet breakfast.
We sat at tables next to the floor-to-ceiling glass 'accordion' doors.
After breakfast the SCIL TRAVEL CLUB Members and the four Wheel the World Travel Guidesmeet out front of the hotel, ready to set out on our next Adventure! Mr. Jamison, one of our Wheel The World Travel Leaders, pulls up in a Renault Master mobility vehicle ---from Freedom Mobility --- which has eight passenger seats and room for two wheelchairs.
Did You Know?
Freedom Mobility is New Zealand’s largest mobility vehicle rental company offering a large selection of disability 'modified' cars and vansfor disabled drivers and transporting disabled passengers.
Our other Wheel The World Travel Guide, Mrs. Jamison, was right behind her husband, driving a Vito 8-seat Minivan to transport the rest of our merry band of travelers.
Did You Know?
While in the United States we drive on the right side of the road, Kiwi's drive on the left side!
74 countries drive on the left side of the road, which is about 35% of the world's population.
That is because most of the countries that drive on the left are former British colonies, and Great Britain (England) has always been a country that drives on the left side of the road.
We didn't have very far to go to reach our destination, but Mr. & Mrs. Jamison thoughtit would be safer for us NOT towalk down the Princes Wharf as therewas such heavy traffic on the 'wharf.'
The New Zealand Maritime Museumopened its doors in 1993 and is home to the world’s greatest 'maritime' 'pioneers.' This is the place where the stories of people who represent what it means to be a New Zealander are 'preserved,' shared, and celebrated. Visitors are invited to share the stories of these New Zealander's dreams, daring accomplishments, amazing journeys, passion, ambition, imagination, exploration, and courage!
The museum has seven exhibition galleries. Over 160,000 people visit the museum every year, and more than 19,800 studentsparticipate in the museum's educational and learning programs each year.
The New Zealand Maritime Museum has some great 'interactive' features, including the chance to design a yacht, learn to navigate by looking at the stars, and relax in a typical Kiwi holiday home (called a Bach), making it a great destination for families.
'Polynesians' are native people from the islands in Polynesia, including Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, and the Maoris in New Zealand.
The New Zealand Maritime Museum is proud to be given the 'Māori' name 'Hui Te Ananui a Tangaroa' by Sir Hugh Kāwharu. The name means “the dwelling of Tangaroa.” In the Māori legend, Tangaroa is the creator of the waves and life within the oceans. He makes his home beneath the sea, and his breathing makes the tides flow in and out. Tangaroa's combined power of waves, wind, moon, and stars are the forces of nature that guide all sailors from the past, present, and future.
There are a lot of famous Polynesian celebrities you may know, like Keanu Reeves (Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, The Matrix, John Wick), Jason Momoa (Game of Thrones, Aquaman, Fast X), Dwayne Johnson (Scorpion King, Fast & Furious, Jumanji). And that's just to name a few!
Every New Zealander is affected by the sea. The New Zealand Maritime Museum is a center for all of their stories told through galleries and a wide range of events, 'exhibits,' harbor cruises, and more!
After Mr. and Mrs. Jamison dropped us off in front of the museum, our Wheel The World travel guides take usinside the museum. Alex goes up to the information desk to let them know we arrived. Arrangements have been made for us to have a private museum tour!
Guided Museum Tour
Our guide was just finishing up with a small group of people. Weonly had to wait about 5 minutes before he came over to us and said, "'Kia Ora,' everyone! Welcome to the New Zealand Maritime Museum tour! My name is Jack!"
There was so much to see! The museum's exhibits are fascinating and 'interactive,' making it a great place for all ages. You can 'try your hand' at virtual 'yacht' racing, be amazed at traditional Polynesian ship design, raise the sails, hear the cannon fire, test your 'sea legs' in a rocking cabin, and 'batten down the hatches.'
Blue Water Black Magic exhibition is a tribute to Sir Peter Blake. The exhibit is engaging, inspiring, educational, interactive, family-oriented, and fun!
The exhibition features the 1995 America’s Cup-winning boat NZL32 – Black Magic.
Peter Blake was a famousNew Zealand sailor who won all the big ocean races --- called 'bluewater races' --- on the planet! By the end of his 30-year career, Peter had sailed around the world five times! He also won the biggest sailing prize of all, the America's Cup, and beat the record for the fastest non-stop race around the world in a yacht.
Peter was knighted for his sailing achievements in 1995. In addition to his knighthood, he received a number of awards and honors during his lifetime. In fact, he was considered the world's most celebrated 'yachtsman,'
On October 5, 2001, Sir Peter Blake --- the world's most famous sailor, who went further & faster than anyone else before --- was shot and killed in a night-time robbery on his boat, the Seamaster. He was on an 'expedition' to 'raise environmental awareness' for areas that were at risk. He had returned from dinner with his crew in Macapa --- a remote city in the Brazilian Amazon --- when a gang of eight armed pirates, known as 'the water rats,' snuck up on him in a rubber dinghy.
In this photo are six of the seven men that were later found guilty of Blake's murder. 23-year-oldRicardo Colares Tavares (third man from the right in the photo) confessed to shooting Sir Peter in what he claimed was self-defense, He was sentenced to 36 years +. The other men received sentences of at least 26 years +.
Jose Irandir Cardoso (on the left in the bottom photo) was one of the seven men 'sentenced' for Sir Peter Blake's murder in 2001, but he managed to escape from the police and had been 'on the run' for 16 years when he was re-captured at a regular traffic stop.
Sir Peter Blake was born on October 1, 1948, in Auckland, New Zealand, and died on October 5, 2001, in Macapá, Brazil. He was a great man, an even greater 'environmentalist,' and the greatest sailor EVER! ... Rest in Peace, Peter.
Our Wheel the World travel guides accompany us outside of the New Zealand Maritime Museum and take us over to a ship that is tied up at a neighboring dock.
The ship is called the Ted Ashby. It's one of the New Zealand National Maritime Museum's fully-restored 'heritage' vessels. The Ted Ashby is a flatbottom 'scow.' We're going on an hour-long harbor cruise to see the Auckland 'skyline', the Sky Tower, and the Auckland Harbor Bridge from the sea.
Scows were flat-bottomed, 'centerboard' ships, most of which carried their cargo on deck. They were ideal for shallow water and carried logs, firewood, sand & shingles, machinery, and 'livestock' among other things.
Scows ranged from 45 to 130 feet in length, and most were two-masted. The largest scows, however, were three-masted. Some of those larger 130-foot, three-masted scows were built in the north of New Zealand between 1873 and 1925. New Zealand scows quickly developed their own 'characteristic' form and construction. Today, only six scowsstill survive.
Construction began in 1992by museum staff and volunteers in the traditional manner: upside down on a rolling cradle. The project took 11,000 hours of volunteer labour and many generous donations from the community.. It is a remarkable craft and the last of her kindto be built. Museum staff and volunteers built the scow in the traditional manner and launched in time for the opening of the MuseumAugust 1993.
The 'hull' of the Ted Ashby is made from an Australian hardwood called blackbutt, instead of the traditional kauri wood most scows are made from. The wood is fastened with 'galvanized' steel bolts and spikes.
The New Zealand Maritime Museum chose to name the vessel after Ted Ashby --- the scowman who workedon the ship for 50 years from 1923 to 1973, and the author of the book 'Phantom Fleet.'
There's enough room on the Ted Ashby for two wheelchairs to be permitted on boardat one time --- so we're good to go! Our travel guides helped us put on the life jackets the crew provided so we'd be safe out on the water. The engines start and we slowly pulled away from the dock and head out into the harbor.
Once we were out in the harbor, and the ship's engine was turned off, it was time to bring down the sails! A few helpful guests assisted in pulling the ropes to lower the sails into place.
Some even got the chance to steer the boat!
It's a windy day, and the harbor is filled with sailboats. Now I see why Auckland is called the 'City of Sails!'
What a beautiful day to go sailing! The view of the Auckland skyline from the Ted Ashby is S P E C T A C U L A R !!!
And, hey, look everybody! There's a dolphin!
Wow! I didn't know that dolphins could fly, did you!?!
Mr. and Mrs. Jamison pick us up on the corner of Quay and Hobson Streets, which is only a 3-minute walkfrom where the Ted Ashby is docked.
Our travel guideshelp usget into the Renault Master Van and 8-seat Minivan and tell us we are going to have lunch at a popular Auckland delicatessen owned by a famous New Zealand Chef!
Sounds good to me! Plus,I'm starting to get REALLY hungry!
Lunch ~ Federal Delicatessen
The Federal Delicatessen has an 'authentic' Jewish deli vibe from New York City in the 1950s, and the menu is available all day, every day, from early until late. This is a place where you can relax with a bottomless 'cuppaJoe' or icy bottle of Dr. Brown's New York Deli Root Beer and sample some of the classic New York Deli dishes, like a 'Reuben' or a Pastrami On Rye.
The Federal Delicatessen is an 'eatery' that encourages you to 'throw caution to the wind' and enjoy your mealwithout worryingabout making a mess. When it comes to GREAT DELI FOOD, tablecloths are pointless. Delicious juicy drips and spills are unavoidable. So, 'jump in with both feet' and 'embrace'the messy goodness!
Al Brown ---recognized around the world as a leading New Zealand Chef and 'restaurateur' --- opened the Federal Delicatessen in 2013. Affectionately known as "The Fed," Al puts his spin on New YorkJewish deli food. You can get the BEST SANDWICHES in town madewith slow-cooked, hand-cut pastrami, corned beef, turkey, and beef brisket --- and don't forget to get a pickle on the side! You can also order New York-style street hot dogs, 'lox,' 'latkes,' 'matzo ball soup,' and, of course, PIE!
Similar places can be found all across NYC (New York City). For years, these neighborhood delicatessens have provided a place for locals to grab a bite to eat, meet up with family and friends, and relax with a cuppa Joe. The Fed is creating the same kind of cozy hangout in Auckland.
Walk through the frosted "IN" door, and a different world opens up.
You feellike you've been 'teleported' toanother time and place --- More to the point, to an old-school diner from the 1950s.
Jars of pickles & mustard line the shelves, and 'back-lit' signs in bold, black letters advertise Genuine Pastrami, Pie by the Slice, House Cured Lox, and Sour Pickles,
Waitresses wear cute matching pastel-shaded uniforms and dash about the deli serving coffee and 'signature dishes' while the team of cooks behind the deli counter are looking sharp in their neat white hats.
The Fed is a casual, fun, and welcoming place with a focus on 'hospitality' and service. So, you can expect there will be a bit of 'bantering' and good-natured joking with the staff at this New York style delicatessen.
Federal delicatessen --- 'ICONIC' Auckland Eats winner
'Iconic' Auckland Eats is the annual list of the top 100 dishes in Auckland, as voted by the public. A team of judges narrowed down the nominations to reach a final list of 100 Iconic Auckland Eats that are well-loved, represent the local culture &people, and are a timeless classic signature dish.
Iconic Auckland Eats has been developed by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited to support local food & beverage businesses and build Auckland’s reputation as a food & beverage destination.
Winner of Iconic Auckland Eats 2020
Winner of Iconic Auckland Eats 2021
Winner of Iconic Auckland Eats 2024
Toasted Reuben --- Nominated by Samantha Aspinall --- Samantha wrote, "The toasted Reuben at Federal Delicatessen is just unbeatable. It is consistently 'decadent,' delightful, and the one meal I will always strive to have on a trip to Auckland. It's comfort food at its best, and the vibes when you walk into the deli are like crossing over into another world. And you just can't beat Al's mustard!"
We go inside and find some tables and booths in the back.
There was plenty of artwork on the walls to look at.
And 'quotes' to read.
It didn't take long before everyone had their faces buried in their menus, trying to decide what to order.
Hmmm. It's so hard to decide. Maybe I'll get a street dog or maybe a chicken salad 'sammie' or, no wait, maybe I'll get one of those famous Reubens everybody's talking about...
The menu is authentic 1950s New York diner fare --- from bagels, Reuben sandwiches,and New York hot dogs to griddle cakes and latkes. The sweet teeth menu is all about cheesecake & pies andshakes & floats --- One of their most popular pies is the Banoffee Pie which is a banana cream and toffee pie served with caramel popcorn on top! Everything sounds so good it's hard not to try a little of everything!
Iended up ordering a famous Reubensammie with a House Soda (Jerk). What did you get?
Alex (one of our Wheel the World travel guides) ordered big plates of Montreal Poutine for each of our tablesto share. I never had French fries covered in gravy before, much less with chunks of cheese on it, but I was glad I tried it because it was REALLY GOOD!
Then we gotThree Ways 'ala mode' for dessert. Our table got Lemon Meringue Pie, Banoffee Pie, and New York Cheese Cake to share.
My favorite dessert was definitely the Banana Cream & Toffee Pie with Caramel Corn on top (It's called the Banoffee - short for Banana and Toffee). It was I N C R E D I B L E ! I just wish we had a Federal Delicatessenback home!
Free Afternoon!
We head back to the hotel for some much-needed R&R.
The pool has an underwater viewing platform that looks out to the harbor.
It offers quite a unique view too!
After a relaxing afternoon of doing whatever we wanted, our Wheel the World travel guides --- in our case, Penelope --- knocked on our doors at 6 pm and told us it was time to get ready for dinner.
By 7 pm,we were all downstairs in the Lobby waiting for Mr. and Mrs. Jamison to pick us up in the Renault Master ADA Van and Vito 8-seat Minivan. They're taking us to a cool PIRATE restaurant called Swashbucklers! Whoohoo!
Dinner
Mr. and Mrs. Jamison pick us up at the hotel and drive us a short distance to Westhaven Marina where Swashbucklers is located.
Swashbucklers Seafood Restaurant & Bar
'Swashbucklers' Seafood Restaurant & Bar has been a local favorite since 1997.
We arrive at Swashbucklers and find two handicapped parking spaces right in front!
We'reseated at some cozy tables near the fireplace.
Our waiter, Finn, is super friendly and takes our drink orders.
I'll take a Coke, Finn.
While we wait for our drinks, we look over the menu.
Mr. and Mrs. Jamison order several Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail appetizers and Garlic Bread for our tables (Mrs. Jamison asks Finn to add cheese to our garlic bread. GENIUS... and SO GOOD!)
I'm in the mood for a steak so I order a rib-eye with mushroom sauce. I got it with a side of mashed potatoes and broccoli to go with it.
But Swashbucklers is a seafood restaurant, so nearly everyone else at my table orders Fish & Chips.
I hoped you saved room for dessert!
After Finn cleared our platesfrom the table, he gave usaDessert Menu.
We couldn't decide on just one, so our table order three different dessertsto share so we could try a few things! We got a Hot Fudge Brownie 'a la mode,' Warm Apple Crumblea la mode with a side of whipped cream and fruit 'garnish,' and their Cheesecake of the Day --- which was White Chocolate and Raspberry Cheesecake a la modewith raspberry drizzle and whipped cream.
September 19th is International Talk Like A Pirate Day!
It all began on June 6, 1995, when two friends --- John Baur and Mark Summers of Albany, Oregon --- were playing a game of racquetball. One of them got injured and growled, "Arrrrr." The two friends started 'bantering' like pirates back and forth, giving them a bright idea... "Hey, we should do this once a year! We'll call it, 'Talk Like a Pirate Day!'"
John and Mark had to pick a date for their new 'buccaneer' holiday. They didn't want to use the day they came up with the idea (June 6, 1995) because they wanted to show respect for the observance of D DAY (the Normandy invasion in World War II, onJune 6, 1944), so they selected Mark Summers’ ex-wife’s birthday --- September 19, as it would be easy for him to remember. :-)
The popularity of Talk Like a Pirate Day grew 'leaps & bounds' when John and Mark ('A.K.A.' Cap’n Slappy and Ol' Chumbucket) sent a letter about their holiday to the American humor 'columnist' and New York Times Best-selling author, Dave Barry in 2002. Barry loved the idea and started 'promoting' it. After Barry wrote his column, there was growing 'media coverage' that made sure Talk Like a Pirate Day was celebrated 'internationally' and madeJohn and Mark famous!
So, now you know, ifyou have ever looked for an excuse to talk like a pirate --- like Captain Jack Sparrow ---INTERNATIONAL TALK LIKE A PIRATE DAY, on September 19th, is the holiday for you!
We had time to admire the viewas we waited for Mr. and Mrs. Jamison to bring the vans around and take us backto the hotel.
Did You Know?
The Auckland Harbour Bridge is an eight-lane motorway bridge that carries more than 170,000 vehicles across the Waitematā Harbor each day. It was opened in 1959 and at 3,348 feet long, it's the second-longest road bridge in New Zealand, and the longest road bridge on the North Island.
We go back to our hotel --- with the incredible view --- and call it a night. Tomorrow is starting early and we have a big day ahead of us.
Day Four
Morning came SUPER EARLY today! It's FIVE AM and Penelope is already dressed and knocking at our door!
"Rise and shine, my favorite little Travel Club pals!" Penelope said a little too cheerfully. She walked over to the Keurig Coffee Machine and added, "I brought fresh baked 'croissants' and will get the coffee going. Whoever didn't take a shower last night needs to take one now. We need to be downstairs in 60 minutes!"
It's a good thing I took my shower before I went to bed last night cause I'm definitely going to need time for a second 'cuppa joe!'
The vans were already waiting for us when we got downstairs. Mr. Jamison was in the mobility van with our driver, Henry (above right), and Mrs. Jamison was in the minivan with our second driver, Cooper (above left).
After coffee and croissants, we're excited to get started. We have a 30-minute drive to get to our destination of Devonport.
Most people traveling to Devonport take the Devonport Ferry, but from Devonportwe are going up to Northland --- which is in the very northern part of the island.
Did You Know?
A regular passenger ferry leaves the AucklandFerry Buildingevery 30 minutes. The trip to Devonport takes only 12 minutes and provides some of the best harborandcity views on the way.
Did You Know?
Our drivers, Henry and Cooper, drive us up and across the Auckland Harbor Bridge on State Highway 1.
I didn't realize how high it was!
Did You Know?
The Auckland Harbour Bridge was opened on May 30, 1959. A team of 1000 men took four years to build itout of steel and 'reinforcedconcrete.' It reaches nearly 3/4 of a mile across the Waitemata Harbor and is almost 210 feet above the water at its highest point.
It was built at a cost of $9,427,401.48 --- which is like $246.5 million in today's money!
The Auckland Harbor Bridge is really three bridges in one! The section in the middle with the steep arches and flags on top is the original four-lanebridge.
Soon after the bridge opened it became clear it was too narrow for the traffic. So, in 1969, two additional traffic lanes were clipped onto each side of the four-lane bridge to 'expand' it to eight lanes.
The Auckland Harbor Bridge is the second-longest bridge in New Zealand and the longest one on the North Island.
Devonport
We arrivein Devonport before 7 am. The relaxed bayside village was just starting to wake up.
I don't know about you guys, but I'm ready for some BREAKFAST!
Corelli's Cafe
Our drivers, Henry & Cooper, drop us off at a little coffee shop called Corelli's Cafe.
Corelli's Cafe is located on the corner of Rattray Street & Victoria Road. Victoria Road is the main streetthrough town (The above photo shows Victoria Road going South with Corelli's on the left).
The owners of the Corelli's Cafe prides themselves on providing great-tasting home-style food and exceptional 'barista-made' coffee --- all at a great price. Their highly 'attentive,' well-trained staffprovides the customers with the kind of service you would expect at an upscale restaurant. It's no wonder this 'unpretentious' cafe is a popular dining spot with locals and tourists alike.
People come from all over for a home-cooked meal in the heart of the pretty seaside town of Devonport. The 'quirky' décor at the Corelli's Cafe offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with an outdoor dining area where customers can enjoy the 'hustle & bustle' of downtownDevonportwith a fresh cup of coffee.
Is anyone up for a cuppa Joe and bit of people-watching?
Corelli's Cafe is right next door to the 'historic' Victoria Theater (The above photo shows Victoria Road going North with Corelli's on the right). This makes it a convenient place to stop for a bite to eat before or after a movie.
We arrived at Corelli's Cafe as they were opening. There was a woman sittingoutside on the front patio. As we approached, she stood up and smiled.
"'Kia ora,' everyone! My name is Louise. I'm with the ToursByLocals travel company and I'll be your guide for a few hours today. But before we start exploring Devonport, let's have some breakfast, shall we?" Louise pointed to the other side of the patio and added, "This area of the front patio has been reserved for us so we can all sit together."
We find seats further down the patio, and a friendly waitress comes up to us with breakfast menus.
Corelli's Cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. But as we're here at seven in the morning, our menu only featured their home-cooked breakfast items.
Megan, our friendly 'Kiwi' waitress, brought us water and took our drink orders.
Megan took our breakfast orders and while we were waiting for her to return with our food, Mr. Jamisonstood up to get our attention. "Ok, listen up, everybody. Louise is going to tell us a little bit about herself and about the company she works for --- ToursByLocals.
"Hey there, SCIL Travel Club Adventurers! So, anyone who's having fun on your trip to New Zealand so far, say Kiwi!"
"KEEEEWEEEE !!!" We all shouted.
"Wow! I love your 'enthusiasm'," Louise laughed. "Okay, let me tell you a little bit about myself. I was born on a farm here in New Zealand and grew up in the countryside. Now, I live in Auckland. You probably have heardit called the 'City of Sails.' I LOVE it here, and I can't imagine living anywhere else! I enjoy sharingmy passion for New Zealand with people and introducing themto our incredible nature and history here. I’ve always been an explorer and adventurer, so Iconsider myself luckyto have worked with visitors from all over the worldwho come to visit New Zealand. I love sharing and having fun and am always ready for an adventure! That's why I'm looking forward to being your personal Devonport tour guide today!
"I work for a company called Tours By Locals. Paul Melhus & Dave Vincent are the owners."
"They went on a trip to the Great Wall of Chinabut found it impossible to find a tour that didn't go to all of the overcrowded, touristy places. They ended up paying a local driver to take them to a lesser-known area. Now, mind you, the Great Wall of China is over 13,000 miles long! However, once they got to their destination, they found a pair of female Chinese farmers who offered to be their guides. This turned out to be a WONDERFUL experience. They learned about the history of the area, about the Great Wall, and about the women's lives. It was FABULOUS! Right there and then, Paul & Dave decided to form a travel company that offered private and unique travel tours hosted by local guides. Two years later, Tours By Locals was born."
"Based in Vancouver, Canada, the Tours By Locals travel company has nearly 4,600 guides in 195 countries! The local guides develop their tours themselves. They choose their themes and create their 'itineraries.' Plus, tours can be 'customized'to a client’s requests, which we have done here. Mr. and Mrs. Jamison have asked me to include a lessonon the difference between American and New Zealand money, which we'll do after breakfast."
"Speaking of which, it looks like our food is here!"
Megan and another waitress started bringing our food out!
I always wondered how waitresses could carry so many plates at one time. The only place Megan DIDN'T have a plate was on top of her head!... But, I bet she could if she had to. Just sayen!
Louise held up a board with examples of New Zealand money for us to see. "New Zealand dollarsare basically like U.S. dollars,but U.S. currency is worth a bit more. That meansyou get $1.65 in New Zealandfor every U.S. dollar you spend here! So, the good news is you are going to get more for your money here."
"Another difference is, unlike the U.S. paper money, each New Zealand 'banknote' is made out of 'flexible' plastic, so the colors are bold and 'vivid.' Plus, they're stronger than paper bills."
That's so cool! New Zealand money really is bright and colorful!
"Another difference is New Zealand doesn't have a one dollar billlike the U.S. does." Louise added.
"We have a one-dollar coin instead. It's slightly smallerthan your U.S. quarter and has a picture of 'Queen Elizabeth II' on the front and a picture of a Kiwi bird on the back."
"So, if youbuy something and the salesperson asks for a 'Kiwi,' they are talking about a New Zealand dollar."
"We also have a two-dollar coin. It's slightly larger than your U.S. quarter and also has a picture of Queen Elizabeth II on the front. But instead of a picture of a Kiwi birdon the back,thereis a picture of an 'Eastern Great Egret' bird. The Kiwi's call white heron a 'Kotuku.' It is sacred to New Zealand's Māori people and is endangered here in New Zealand. They can only be found at the Okarito Lagoon on the South Island."
"While we don't have a coin like your 1-cent penny oryour5-cent nickel, we do have a 10-cent coinlike your dime, a 20-cent coin --- that takes the place of your quarter, and a 50-cent coin --- like your half dollar or maybe you call it a 50-cent piece. All three coins have Queen Elizabeth II's face on the front, but on the back of our 10-cent coin, there is a carved mask, called a Koruru, with 'Māori' patterns on it. On the back of our 20-cent coin is the face of Māori chief, Pūkākī. On the back of our 50-cent coin is the tall-masted ship, the HMS Endeavour, commanded by Capt. James Cook on his first exploration of the Pacific in 1769-1771, showed passing in front of Mount Taranaki."
Taranaki Maunga is New Zealand's most perfectly formed volcano. It is around 120,000 years old and last 'erupted' in 1775. Experts agree that the mountain is just sleeping and not completely dead. To the Māori people, MountTaranaki is an ancient and honored 'ancestor' that all the Taranaki people come from. As the legend goes, Taranaki Maunga once lived with the other volcanoes in the center of the North Island, but when he flirted with one of the female mountains, named Pihanga, Mount Tongariro erupted in a jealous rage. Taranaki Maunga ran away to the west, creating a deep path in the earth as he went, which is where the Whanganui River now flows. Today, MountTaranaki is still a cherished part of the Māori's history, and his peak is precious to the Māori people of the area.
Louise described what was on the front and back of each banknote. "Sir Edmund Hillary is pictured on the front side of our $5 dollar bill. In 1953, he was the first to climb Mount Everest --- the highest mountain in the world. Even thoughhe died in January 2008, Ed's face is still one of the most recognizable faces in Kiwi history. In 1992, when this 5 Dollar banknote was issued, Ed wasoneof just a few non-government officials to be featured on a New Zealand banknote."
"National birds are featured on the back side of each New Zealand banknote. On our $5 dollar bill is the Hoiho. The yellow-eyed penguin is the largest of New Zealand’s penguins. Unique to New Zealand, these penguins are one of the world’s rarest types of penguins. The Māori namefor the penguinmeans ‘noiseshouter,' which describes their shrill call made at their breeding sites."
"Kate Sheppard is on the front of our $10 dollar bill. She's a truly important person in New Zealand’s history. She was a 'humanitarian'and had a strong sense of justice and fairness. She 'advocated' for women's rights, wrote letters to the newspapers, participated in public discussions, and passed out flyers to members of Parliament. In 1893, Katepresented a 'petition' --- signed by 32,000 people --- to Parliament in support of women having the right to vote. As a result of her tireless efforts, New Zealand was the first nation in the world to givewomen the right to vote."
"On the back of our $10 dollar bill is a picture of the Whio duck. This highly 'endangered' blue duck is treasured by the Māori. At one time, they could be found all over the North and South Islands. However, as the Whio ducks can only survive in clean and fast-flowing rivers, pollution and the development of towns and cities have forced them into high 'altitude' areas in the mountain regions."
"With her faceon the front side of all New Zealand coins, Queen Elizabeth II is also featured on the front side of the $20 Banknote as well. As New Zealand is a 'Commonwealth' nation under England's 'monarchy,' the Queen of England was also our Queen. She was queen from February 6, 1952, until September 8, 2022,so her face has been on our money since 1967 --- that's over 50 years!"
"The Kārearea --- also known as the New Zealand falcon --- is pictured on the back of our $20 dollar bill. These birds have long, pointed wings and long tails and are spotted in color. These are 'distinctive' and spectacular birds capable of reaching speeds of over 62 miles an hour."
"Sir Āpirana Turupa Ngata is a proud figure on the front side of our $50 dollar bill. He was born in Te Araroa on the East Coast of the North Island. He was the first Māori person to receive a University degree and is known for his tireless support and protection of Māori language and culture. He worked in Parliament from 1905 to 1943."
"Like the Whio duck on the $5 dollar bill, the Kōkako bird is also endangered. In fact, it is thought to have gone 'extinct' on the South Island. However, recovery plans are underway throughout the North Island to protect these unique and distinctive birds. They are easily recognizable due to their distinct blue neck and striking black mask around their eyes."
"Sir Ernest Rutherford's image is on the front of the $100 dollar bill. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 1908, Rutherford remains an important part of New Zealand'sscientific history and a true Kiwi celebrity. He is worthy to be in a place of honor on New Zealand’s highest-value bill."
"Featured on the back of the $100 dollar banknote is the Mohua bird. It is also at high risk of becoming endangered.This tiny yellowhead bird is commonly found in New Zealand’s South Island and Stewart Island forests. Due to the changes in the Mohua's 'habitat' and the competition for food that they survive on, there are less than 5,000 of these striking creatures left."
New Zealand isn’t the only place you can spend New Zealand dollars. Several Pacific Island countrieslike Tokelau and Niue, use it too. While the Cook Islands and Pitcairn Islands have their own money, they mostly use New Zealand dollars.
According to news reports, members of the public weren't soldon calling the new New Zealand banknotes, "dollars." They wanted to call them the “fern,” or the“kiwi,” among dozens of other suggestions. Australia had a similar 'debate' when they changed to theirown currency in 1966, but both countries eventually went with the “dollar.”
"Okay, so now that we have learned about the money in New Zealand, maybe we should go spend some of it. What do you say?" Louise grinned.
"Count me in!" "Yeah, what he said.""You can count me in too!" "That's two thumbs waaaay up, Louise!" "Whoohoo!" "I'm in!" "Me too!" "So, what are we waiting for?"
"But wait. We don't have any New Zealand money to spend."
"You don't? Well, I guess we better do something about that, huh? Mrs. Jamison, do you have any ideas where these guys can get some New Zealand money?"
"Now that you mention it, yes, I think I just might." Mrs. Jamison said as she reached into a SCIL bag sitting at her feet. Shepulledlittle leather bags, that had our names 'embroidered' on them, out of her bag and started passing them out to us. "Don't unzip these yet." Mrs. Jamison warned, "Louise will tell you when to open them."
Mrs. Jamison gave one of the little bags to Louise. It was PINK and had her name on it in black embroidery. "Wow, when Mrs. Jamison confirmed your reservations she asked me what my favorite color was, I had no idea she was planning on giving me a PINK Travel Money Pouch!" Louise seemed touched by that. "Thank you so much, Mrs. Jamison!" Then she said, "I hope you guys know how lucky you are to have the benefactors you do. Theyhave gone to a lot of trouble to make sure you have the BEST VACATION EVER."
"We sure do and we LOVE them too!"
"Your generous benefactors have given you $300 so you can practice budgeting your money while learning more about New Zealand currency. The travel guides who are assigned to your rooms will be there to help you every step of the way."
Did You Know?
New Zealand used British money for over 100 years. In 1933, New Zealand beganmaking coins of its own, and then in 1967, New Zealand switched from British pounds to New Zealand dollars.
The central bank stopped making one-cent and two-cent coins in 1990 and five-cent coins in 2006. It also withdrew the country’s $1 and $2-dollar bills in 1991 and started using $1 and $2-dollar coins.
New Zealand's money features a wide range of designs, including native birds like kiwi, local plants and scenery, as well as famous historical figures and British royalty. Although New Zealandgoverns itself, it’s still part of the 'British Commonwealth' and treats the British monarch as its head of state. Queen Elizabeth II has appeared on New Zealand money for several 'decades,' and new coins and dollar bills will feature King Charles III.
New Zealand's dollar bills are made from a flexible plastic called polymer that has advanced security features in it to help prevent counterfeiting and increase their life span.
"Unzip the top pocket. You'll findFOUR$5 dollar bills, THREE $10 dollar bills, and FIVE$20 dollar bills. How many bills do you have in that pocket?"
"4 + 3 + 5 = TWELVE BILLS !!!"
"Twelve bills is the CORRECT answer! You get an A+! That's a total of $150 dollars! That's a lot of money, so make sure to keep your pockets zipped up at all times, okay?"
"You got it, Louise!"
"Great! Now, unzip the 2nd pocket on the front of your Travel Money Pouch. You will find a $50 dollar bill and a $100 dollar bill in there. How much money is that?"
"$150 dollars! Whoohoo!"
"That's right! $150. You get a Gold Star! That means all together you have $300 to spend!"
"Just remember, you get more for your money herein New Zealand so don't feel guilty if you decide to splurge a little.
Oh, yeah! Sign me up for some guilt-free splurging!
"Now, open the pocket with the snap on it. You'll find some coins in there. Can you tell me how much money you have in coins? Your travel guides can help you figure it out."
Remember to look at the back of the coin to see what it's worth.
Everyone came up with the same answer. "We have $10.00 in change!"
"On the back of your Travel Money Pouch you'll find one last zipper pocket. Inside is a mini notepad and pen. This is where you keep your receipts for everything you buy. Your travel guides will help you keep track of what you're spending and what you're spending your money on."
Alright, 'your mission, should you choose to accept it,' is to go with your travel guide in groups of three, pick out a dessert from the display case, and buy it with your New Zealand money.
"Okay you guys, put everything back in your Travel Money Pouch, make sure it's zipped up, and then put it on. Your travel guides will help you. This type of pouch is called a 'crossbody' bag. You can wear it under your clothes or over them. Some travelers prefer to wear their crossbody money bag under their clothes to keep their valuables safe from 'pickpockets.' It can be tucked away in an area of clothing that's difficult for a pickpocket to reach, such as under your shirt."
My two Bow Suite roommates and our Wheel the World travel guide, Penelope, were the last group to pick out our desserts. I had a hard time deciding between the Raspberry Cheesecake and the Carrot Cake.
Just as it was starting to look like it would be next Christmas before I made a decision, Penelope came to myrescue. "Hey, there. I noticed you've been looking back and forthbetween the Raspberry Cheesecake and the Carrot Cake. I'm torn between those two myself. I was wondering if you would do me a favor and order one and I'll order the other, and then we could split them. That way we could have some of both. What do you think?"
"I think you have a friend for LIFE!"
Each of our desserts costs $8.50. So, we paid with a ten-dollar bill and got $1.50 back in change. Penelopehelped me write down my first purchase in my little mini notepad. She wrote down ***Today's Date***, ***$8.50***, ***Piece of Carrot Cake***, ***Corelli's Cafe, Devonport***. I put my notepad and pen with the receipt in the backside zipper pocket.
Shopping in Devonport
Corelli's Cafe is on Victoria Road and that's where most of the shops are.
Louise led usdown the street, giving ustime to go inside any shop that interested us. We had our Wheel the World travel guides there to help us ifwe wanted to buy a souvenir.
Devonport Chocolates
After strolling down Victoria Road (the main street in Devonport) and getting some shopping done, Louise took us to the Devonport Chocolates shop.
The Devonport Chocolates shop was just one block over on Wynyard Street.
Louise said the owners of Devonport Chocolates have spent the past 30 years handcrafting 'gourmet' chocolates inspired by the unique flavors of New Zealand. This makes it a great place to get a souvenir to send home to our families.
Although the shop was small inside, there were many wonderful chocolates to choose from!
We were greeted when we walked in with a free cup of hot cocoa with a gourmet marshmallowon top!
Yummy for my Tummy! :- )
In fact, the hot cocoa was so good, that Mrs. Jamison decided to ship a set home!
She also shipped some of the Devonport Chocolates Gourmet Marshmallows home to go with the Hot Cocoa.
Penelope, our Wheel the World Bow Suite travel guide, bought a package of the chocolate-covered Apple and Cinnamon Marshmallows and said she'd share it with us once we got back to our room later.
OH, GOODY! I can't wait to try one!
Some of the SCIL Travel Club members selected a chocolate or twofrom the display case to enjoy later.
Mrs. Jamisonshipped a few boxes of chocolates home for family members who had birthdays the week after we return from our trip.
As for me, I sent a box of the *'Flavours' of New Zealand* home to my Mom. She loves chocolate and she likes to try new things so I thought this was the perfect Devonport souvenir for her! Each chocolate was inspired by a different region of New Zealand and featured classic Kiwi flavors and ingredients.
A few of us sent home a set of the Vintage Devonport Chocolate Bars to our parents as a souvenir. On the wrapper of each chocolate bar was artwork by Auckland artist, Tanya Wolfkamp, featuring native birds and plants.
I thought the Vintage Devonport Chocolate Bar Set was cool but I'm not a big fan of dark chocolate, so I bought a Kiwifruit & Apple bar (Milk chocolate with kiwifruit drops wrapped in artwork featuring the New Zealand fern, the Kiwi bird, and the Mount Cook Lily.), a 'Feijoa' chocolate bar (Milk chocolate with freeze-dried feijoa and wrapped in artwork featuring the Kereru bird and apple blossoms.), and a plain milk chocolate bar (wrapped in artwork featuring the Pukeko bird and the Kowhai tree.).
Click the red play button below to see them making chocolate bars at Devonport Chocolates!
In the back of the shop, was a window with a view of the kitchen. Customers could watch them make the chocolates through the glass. While most of our group was looking in the windowI asked a salesperson to help me with a present for my Aunt Rebecca.
Here's another chance to seethem making chocolates. Just click the red play button below to see the video.
Behind the counter was a row of brightly wrapped chocolate hearts in glass jars. Above the chocolate hearts was a row of chocolate shoes and purses! My Aunt moved to New York City when she got a job as a fashion designer and was coming home for vacation shortly after we get back from our trip. I thought this was the PERFECT present for her!
Kate was very friendly, super helpful, and knew EVERYTHINGabout EVERYTHING about CHOCOLATE! The chocolate purses were cute but it was the shoes that I thought Rebecca would really like. Kate showed me the four different styles of shoes they make and when I pointed to the stiletto (the shoe with the really tall heel) called 'the Liz,' Kate's eyes lit up. She said, "You know what? We have one of the "Jacquie" stilettos in the back that a customer decided she didn't want after all. I bet you're aunt would really it. Let me go get it for you so you can see it."
What a work of art!
That's P E R F E C T!!! Penelope helped me figure out how to pay my bill with New Zealand money and I joined the rest of the group at the observation window.
As luck would have it, a 'chocolatier' was makinga red chocolate shoe! How cool is that?
Now watch them make a pair of chocolate shoes! Click the red play button to see it.
We follow Louise and our Wheel the World travel guides outside of Devonport Chocolates and she turns to us and asks, "Where do you think we're going next?"
To find out you'll have to join us for PART THREE of our Virtual Adventure to the North Island of New Zealand. We'll explore more of Devonport, journey into the world of the Maori (the native people of New Zealand), visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, and, whatwe've ALL been waiting for, visit H O B B I T O N!!!
Parting is such sweet sorrow...
We'll leave you with this 'HIGHLIGHTS OF AUCKLAND' video (link below) ~ See you next time!
We hope you enjoyed the second installment of our Virtual Adventure to the North Island of New Zealand! We have a lot more to see so stay tuned for PART THREE in the upcoming issue of the August DISABILI-TEA Newsletter!
