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Aotearoa is the Maui name for New Zealand. It roughly translates to the "Land of the Long White Cloud." If you have never traveled to this magical land, let me warn you that you should prepare for an intense visual sensory experience. Breathtaking vista after vista will appear before your eyes. I have traveled extensively throughout the world and have found no other country that has such a beautiful concentrated mix of different types of ecosystems within such a small area (about the size of California). Take plenty of film.
Another real plus is the genuine friendliness of the people. The standard of living is very high. Also, over the last two decades, the quality of service, restaurant meals, and hotel facilities have improved greatly. You will not be disappointed. However, be warned that Kiwis like to dine. Expect to spend at least 90 minutes for dinner. You will not be rushed. To rush your meal is uncivilized.
I hope you enjoy my poetical tribute to Aotearoa and the pictures (all taken on the North Island during two of my trips). Aotearoa: Land of the Long White Cloud
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Aotearoa
Centuries ago Polynesians landed on your fated shores
Blown off course by the prevailing winds
Centuries passed as they warred and multiplied
Laying claim to their territories
Then the whites arrived
The pakehas
Changing the land forever
Trees disappeared
Replaced by the unfamiliar
Today, your land is one
that many dream to visit
Others wish to stay
The rich greens of the North Island
Contrast sharply with the rugged South
Your traditions intermingled
Maoris and pakehas
And now a strong flavor of the Far East
Your rocky, rugged coastlines
Mesmerize the mind
Deep fiords and endless tramping trails
Lure the adventurous
Your people extend 'the arms of welcome'
Sometimes the traditional greeting
Awaits the unexpected
You are a modern land
But somehow caught in a wondrous time warp
People still having time for each other
You are young
Yet old in your ways
As the dawn arrives on your blissful shores
May the Land of the Long White Cloud
Forever be the land of dreams
That welcomed your first settlers
The fabled land that welcomes us today
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