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And how are things in Auckland?

Kia Ora! Or ‘Hello!’ but then in Maori, the language of the native people of New Zeeland. The language is also the aspect in which this culture can be seen most. A lot of places and birds have a name in Maori. I try to see as much of this country as possible. I'm in the middle of the photo above in the Tongariro National Park with Mt Ngauruhoe in the background.

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file photo Lars Peters

A special introduction with the Maori culture was in a pub during the world cup rugby. Before the game a haka, a traditional dance, is performed to intimidate the opponent. Apart from their love for rugby, they are also very protective for their nature. I experienced this immediately when I arrived on the airport, where they looked if there was no dirty ground attached to my hiking shoes. That Kiwis (this means the people of New Zealand, this is not the same as Maori) are proud of their nature and birds also follows from the ‘bird of the year’ election. For this election, campaign teams are set up, memes are created and even election fraud is not unknown. Last week, the winner of this year was announced, being the hoiho (yellow-eyed penguin).

During my internship I focus on modelling of geothermic fields. Apart from useful to generate energy, it also leads me to very beautiful places. The photo above is made in Rotorua during one of the many weekend trips I did. In order to see as much of this country as possible, I bought a car with a matrass instead of backseats to go camping with.

A good place for beach fanatics. Photo | Lars Peters

After my internship, this car will take me on a road trip to the south island for two more months. If you want to get away for a long weekend during the internship period that is not a problem at all. Also near Auckland beautiful hikes can be made, for example this one following a river for quite a while.

 

Photo | Archive Lars Peters

In Auckland self, it is remarkable how green it is. On my first day I was walking through a park near the city center and it felt more like the jungle than a city. It is also a good place for beach fanatics, as the city is sandwiched between two seas. Due to the amount of coastline per resident, the beaches are not crowded and are perfect to relax. From Auckland you can also take the ferry to one of the neighboring islands, such as the volcano Rangitoto. From here you have a nice view on the island and the skyline of the city.

Skyline at Rangitoto. Photo | Archive Lars Peters

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