I have internet connection for 1/2 hour so I will tell you more about our adventures. Wellington is a beautiful city, but there is a cartoon image of residents bent doubled over as they struggle to make their way against the chilly wind. We put on our raingear and got our umbrellas to head out. First stop was Mr. Buns----recommended by a local at the hotel. Mr. Buns is an all day breakfast bakery. We got a table by the window and watched the people go by as we waited for chicken asparagus omelets and banana pancakes. I noticed a rather large woman choosing a pie for lunch. I asked her about it and she responded that New Zealanders enjoy minced meat pies for lunch. Her personal favorite had mashed potatoes on top. We'll be sure to try these on our journeys.
After a relaxed brunch we walked in the rain to Te Papa Museum-------free. We were especially interested in learning about the native peoples, the Maori, so we headed to Floor #4 which had exhibits relating to their way of life. Knowing our time was limited we purchased tickets for an hour guided tour of the museum. It is my hope to return by myself while Will is in Orientation.
One unusual exhibit was the earthquake house. You stand in a frame house and feel the effects of a major earthquake. (While I was typing my first post today, I noticed a couple sitting across from me. When I looked up from typing, they started a conversation with me. They are from Christ Church and told me all about the effects of the earthquakes on the people. When we finished our conversation they gave me their phone number and email address and invited me to get in touch if we get to Christ Church. I have heard that the people of NZ are friendly and on my third day I have proof!)
On the way to our hotel we stopped at a little Malaysian cafe and ordered satay and curry chicken----delicious! We decided that we can't eat out every meal so found a grocery/liquor store and stocked up on fruit, yogurt, cheese, fresh bread, and wine. We will be learning about the NZ wines, but this time we took the recommendation of another New Zealander-------pinot gris from the Nelson area.
Will is at Orientation today and I am a woman of leisure.
Until I blog again,
Kath
Hot meat pies are in every bakery (Austr. too), hot & ready to go. They are individual size, meant to be like a sandwich. There are good/bad ones. Like pastry, lots of calories, but the NZ experience.
ReplyDeleteWe favor Sauv. Blancs from Marlborough region (so. island). Christchurch had a 5. tremblor last week.
How fun to stay in touch with your adventures through this medium. Glad you have enjoyed some good food and met a few of the locals. They really are a friendly bunch from our experience. Love reading your blogs!
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