Hi, Lil' Kiwi.

New Zealand has always had a special place in my family's heart as New Zealanders took care of my uncle for a year after he was gravely wounded during WWII. He was not allowed to come home (USA) until he healed up. Many years later, he and my aunt went back to visit the families and others with whom he'd become friends. I saw his slides of the trip and it was beautiful, but what struck me more was how he talked about the people...to a one they were kind and welcoming. I've heard similar from a couple I know who went there to visit relatives and *tramped* (they love to hike and camp out) all over to various scenic sights.

More, recently, I've had a wonderful time with a Mudcatter, Billy the Bus, who unfortunately hasn't been around lately. His real name is Sam Sampson and he drives a tour bus on Stewart Island. You may learn a bit more about him and read the lyrics to a couple of songs by CLICKING HERE. He is quite the storyteller. To read some of his postings, go to the drop down menu for Quick Links, scroll down to Old Adv.Forum Search and click on it. Then put in "Billy the Bus" in the member box and see what comes up.

I consider two movies about New Zealand to be two of my very favourites: Once Were Warriors and Whale Rider.

Thanks for letting us know more about your country and culture. Such threads are a big part of what makes Mudcat so special, imo.

All the best,

kat