Yesterday I had the day off from class so I went into Wellington for the first time to have a look around. The jet-lag finally got a bit stronger than the new country excitement, so I slept in and took the train into the city around 12. I walked along the waterfront from the railway station to check out the Waitangi Day celebrations in the park. Waitangi Day is a national holiday on the anniversary of the treaty between Maori people and the British. There are some cultural nuances involved with the day and the relationship between Maori, Europeans, and the government that I still haven't quite gotten a grip on, so I think that's the only comment about it I'll make. Anyway I got there in time to see a Wellington group perform the haka which was fantastic. I really want to learn more about Maori culture while I am here. I also wandered a bit around the city (and by a bit I mean I walked around for 5 hours). I am definitely still adjusting to it being summer here, and then start of the school year. I put in a few pictures of Wellington below.
These three are of the water area near the park. The building in the bottom picture is a place you can rent boats for an afternoon.
Over the bridge from the lagoon area.
Where I had lunch a chicken pot pie and a "short black coffee" which for your information is three sips of really strong espresso. Whoopsie....American moment I guess.
Outdoor shopping area.
Te Papa the national museum. It is AMAZING! There are tons of exhibits about New Zealand history and culture, and lots of other things to check out as well. I will definitely be going back.
Straight ahead is an old bank building that is renovated into a fancy shopping mall.
I just showed my coworker from New Zealand your blog! She knew all the places and loved the photos you took! You sound like you're having so much fun! We miss you! Don't let too many kiwi's fall inlove with you while you're there ;) <3 -Steph
ReplyDelete