Paraparaumu, New Zealand

I left Christmas day on a flight to Auckland (North Island)and stayed there for 3 days. I didn’t see many people of color but felt safe more times than not. I ended up cooking at Air BNB most meals bc the resturants there (a lot of fast or fried foods that I choose not to eat too much) but I ate fresh eggs, lamb chops and other delicious fresh food I got from grocery store and was well pleased with the selections.

The history of the native people can be discovered, but you really have to seek it out if that is where your interests are. On North Island, we rented a car bc most of the stuff we wanted to see and do was not near Auckland, and public transit was not a realistic option. I do appreciate how when driving around the island and inside several buildings there was clear evidence and art to represent the native people who were of color.

I then took a flight to South Island bc it was quicker than using the ferry (plus the drive from Ackland to ferry was a few hours). I didnt truly begin to enjoy my trip to New Zealand until we made it to Queensland (South Island). Queensland is truly one of the thrill capitals of the world. So many exciting things to do outdoors from mountain biking, running/walking trails, skiing, surfing, and paragliding.

NZ was not a cheap trip…but we paid to maximize the time we had to see and experience as much as possible.