New Zealand 2005
From my original letter to Eldon and Jean during our New Zealand trip:
"November 21, 2005 - at 4:15p we caught our bus (one of four) for the Tamaki Maori Hangi (dinner, culture and concert.) On the bus ride to the Marae, the driver decides who will be the Chief representing our "tribe" (bus.) He selects Bill from over 20 other men. The visiting "tribe" (our bus) must have a chief to accept the peace offering from the hosting tribe. Representation of those on the bus is considered a honorable task in Maoridom. With the other four visiting chiefs, Bill performs the hongi (pressing of the noses) with the Tangata Whenua (people of the land.) He performs the Haka with the other visiting chiefs, where facial expressions are encouraged. The visiting chiefs must compose their own Farewell Song - Bill's was "Row, Row your Waka" (waka being any vessel of transportation in Maori - a big hit and sing along with all!) He is presented his Chief's necklace, a carved head representing the most important part of the body." There are several pictures from our trip in the Gallery.
At the bottom of Aladdin's Cave in the Orakei Thermal Area, legends have it that you are supposed to soak your wedding rings, then swish your hand in the Mirror Pool and make a wish - it is guaranteed to come true as long as you do not reveal the contents of your wish. I don't remember what my wish was, but I am sure it had to do with Bill and I have no doubt it proved true.