We hit the road toward Auckland around 8:30am with a couple of scheduled stops along the way. First stop was to see a world famous public toilet. Yes, you read it correctly, a bathroom. This one was designed by the Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. All of the materials used were discarded bottles, ceramic tiles, stones, and brick.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hundertwasser
Our next stop was the site of Ruapekapeka Pa (Pa means fort in Maori). This site is famous for the final battle with British troops (1845-1846) and is considered sacred by the Maori. The site is situated on a hill where Maori forces entrenched and defended themselves against the British. The tunnels and huts no longer stand and the site is now a peaceful setting high on a hill overlooking the area.
After a quick stop for breakfast we drove straight to the city of Auckland. After checking in we spent a couple of hours walking around and searching for a late lunch.
FJ
If you rascals come back with Maori facial tattoos I'll be very impressed. Mom and Dad might feel differently, but we'll cross that bridge when we come to it. :)
ReplyDeleteAuckland looks wonderful!
ReplyDeleteBy the way - there was a question about Easter Island and I got it right because of one of your blogs! :) So thanks!