Goat Island Marine Reserve

We went to Goat Island Marine reserve this weekend to enjoy some of the best weather of the season. Armed with wetsuits we were able to snorkle and see some great fish!

On the way to Goat Island we saw this funny sign at a local bar:

My Mo Bro

Movember has come to an end... but Mat already can't wait till next year to grow one of these again:

North Head

Today we explored North Head in Devonport which is, in our opinoin, one of the best places in Auckland. North Head is an old volcano, strategically positioned above the shipping channel. Historically this area was a defence position and the old gun emplacements and underground connecting tunnels are open for exploration. The views are fantastic and there are beaches nearby which makes it a great way to spend a sunny Saturday afternoon!

Weekend

This weekend we had beautiful weather in Auckland, perfect for going to the French Markets and visiting the festival of roses in Parnell. Here are a few pics of what we were up to:

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend as well!

Things are getting a bit hairy...

Yep, thats right, its THAT time again and guess who is participating? Will be sure to post the progress soon.

Feeling Patriotic

Living so far away has allowed me a different lens through which to view my home country; I have learned a lot about the way Americans are perceived both good and bad. To view the election from half way around the world, surrounded by non-Americans, was a particularly special vantage point and was an experience I will certainly never forget.

Not only was it a historical day in American history, it was a day that I'll never forget personally for the indelible effect it had on my patriotism. Election coverage was broadcast for almost the entire day on New Zealands national TV channel and many Kiwis followed it closely; at about lunch time, the polls were closing so my team took a break to watch the states turn blue.

I was so proud to see Obama in Chicago and show my Kiwi friends; as an expat it was truly remarkable to see how the hope of a nation was infectious and touched the world yesterday.

I even brought in some patriotic cookies for the occasion which have been affectionately dubbed "Nutty Americans".

Music Update

It’s been a while since I updated the New Zealand music info here on the ol blog. I’ve got two newbies for you to check out:

1) High time I featured a kiwi lady and this one is particularly lovely. Sarah Brown has one of those honey like voices that coat each word and no matter what the subject matter, it sounds soft and kinda sweet. Check out her website and have a listen over at her myspace page if you are so inclined. In May, she will be in Auckland and I would love to see her play at Stonyridge Vineyard on Waiheke.

2) It’s almost obligatory that I mention the other artist I’m featuring today. Tiki Tane has gotten so many accolades this year that he is one of this countries most talked about people. I don’t love all his stuff, but this song will be sure to remind me of New Zealand long after I’m gone.