Heeding the quote " Time and Tide waits for none " decided it was time to begin my nomadic World travel to New Zealand and Fiji having visited 95 country's and still having the time and a little money for more World travel.Booked my round-trip airline ticket's from Mumbai to Auckland and return back from Nadi to Mumbai on Tuesday(9/1/2024) with "Makemytrip" franchisee owner Ms Snehal.Kadve whose office at Dadar was close to my residence.The total cost of the air ticket amounted to almost Rs 1,50,000 only, my costliest roundtrip air ticket.Next step was hostel bookings for Auckland and Nadi through "www.booking.com" and after that approached Mr Ramamurthy.Iyer of "Farshak Travels" in Prabhadevi for the tedious on-line application of a Visa to New Zealand.Finally received my New Zealand Visa on Monday(5/2/2024) which was valid until 1February 2025.The total cost for the New Zealand Visa amounted to Rs 16,663 only.Next applied for "Singapore Visa" although transit Indian passport holders didn't require a visa besides i was also holding a "New Zealand Visa" that directly allows a tourist entry into Singapore without holding a "Singapore Visa" . In 2023 having experienced a catastrophic financial "Transit Visa blunder" at Abu Dhabi airport travelling on a "SCHENGEN VISA" during my travel across Europe decided to be safe rather than sorry.Received my Singapore Visa valid until 26 February 2026 with the cost amounting to Rs 4337 only. So before even setting foot on a plane my total travel bill amounted to Rs 1,71,000 Only. Readers of my travelogues know that i travel at bare minimum budget as a solo nomadic backpacker and this travel flight booking was definitely expensive in comparison to all my previous flight bookings barring the one-off "Abu Dhabi Visa Fiasco" that involved a double air ticket expenditure of almost Rs 1,40,000 .Besides re-booking the air ticket's had to adjust to abrupt change in travel itinerary at the last moment due to destination changes from Abu Dhabi airport on my onward flight Nice and later on my return flight to India at Catania airport in Sicily. Read about that once in a lifetime travelogue at this link and always make sure you have the right " Travel/Transit Visa's" while interchanging flights across different country's. :- https://europerediscover.blogspot.com/. Ahoy !
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| " Glenfiddich " 50 years aged whisky costing 88,888 $ Singapore displayed at Changi Airport Terminal-3 DUTY Free Liquor shop .The costliest liquor I have come across in a retail shop in my lifetime. |
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| " Butterfly Park " in Terminal-3 of Changi Airport. |
Tuesday(12/3/2024) Departure Mumbai to Singapore :- As usual made the road travel from my home at Old Prabhadevi road to Chatrapati Shivaji Terminal T2 in a taxi with the fare amounting to Rs 500.After the usual check-in at the " Singapore Airlines" counter collected my boarding pass for both my flights, the Transit flight " SQ 423" to Singapore and the onward flight " NZ 283" from Singapore to Auckland. Headed past " Security Check" and later " Immigration Check" into the plush " Duty Free" lounge.Window shopping as usual stumbled across a pair of " Royal Salute" Platinum Jubilee edition bottles kept for display with the price tags indicating a cost of Rs 16,80,000 for one bottle and Rs 10,08,000 for the other bottle.The costliest whisky brands I came across during my lifetime of duty free shopping and window shopping at various airports across the Globe.My sightseeing tour had already begun and made myself comfortable in the waiting lounge of " Gate 46".
Finally at 2245 boarded the plane and made myself comfortable in seat " 53 F".Straightaway got to watching the inflight movie " Killers of the Flower Moon".
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| " RAINFOREST VORTEX" in the " JEWEL" of Changi Airport in Singapore.The World's highest indoor waterfalls.In close proximity to " Terminal-1.Travel between terminals in Changi airport is by the "Sky train". |
Dinner was " Fish/ Baby potatoes( Western cuisine)" with a peg of whisky/ coke.After the movie switched onto nostalgia British top hit songs of the 1970's .Finally on Wednesday (13/3/2024) at 0730 hrs touched down at Changi Airport.I have visited Singapore a few times times by ship as well as air transport and on entering Terminal-3 of Changi Airport was amazed at the spaciousness and beautiful ambiance of the World's best airport.
Walked along the duty free shop's as usual window shopping and at the " DUTY Free Liquor" shop came across whisky brand's as costly as Mercedes car's ,most prominently the " Glenfiddich " 50 years aged whisky costing 88,888 $ Singapore .Converted to Indian rupees at a exchange rate of Rs 63= 1 S $ the price translates to Rs 55,59,994, unbelievable but true.I was on a unplanned " LIQUOR TOUR" and unbelievable to think that just a bottle of liquor was worth the price of a luxury vehicle.Later visited the amazing " Butterfly Park" and relaxed in the palatial lounge next to the " Butterfly Park "having large indoor trees with a view of the airport tarmac and also having charging points for Wi-Fi appliances.
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| In the " SKYTRAIN" of Changi Airport shuttling between the terminals on a sightseeing tour of Changi Airport. Voted numerous year's as " World's Best Airport". |
Airport free WiFi was excellent." Terminal-3 " itself is reason for Changi airport regularly being voted the best airport in the World, a tourist attraction by itself.At 1030 hrs after asking for directions boarded the "SKY TRAIN" to " Terminal-1".Visited the CACTUS GARDEN" in Terminal 1, a open- air terraced garden facing the airport tarmac, quite ordinary garden with the uniqueness that it was a genuine landscaped garden inside a airport terminal.Next most important airport tour was to be the "JEWEL" and having a Singapore tourist Visa on inquiry with immigration officials was told that i would have to exit the airport through immigration to visit the " JEWEL" shopping arcade which was situated outside the official premises of "Terminal -1" and has the World's highest artificial indoor waterfalls.The official's at Changi Airport were absolutely informative and polite.Was guided through immigration procedure and being accustomed to long queues in most Country's was surprised to find myself the only tourist exiting the airport with a lady immigration staff official guiding me in the electronic process of identification with no human personal involved for facial photograph,passport verification and fingerprint recording .The entire process was based on Artificial Intelligence with just a human officer guiding me on the sequence . Travel educates. .Walked the short distance from " Terminal-1" to the " JEWEL" and visited the " Tropical rain forest Vortex ".
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| My flight to Auckland from Changi Airport, New Zealand Airlines " Flight NZ 283" parked at Terminal -3 awaiting boarding of passengers from boarding " Gate B 9". |
This Rainforest Vortex has the tallest artificial indoor waterfall in the World and honestly I was not bored spending a entire day just sightseeing Changi Airport. From the " Jewel" boarded the Skytrain to " Terminal 2" which just had duty free shops and akin to the " Jewel" a large wall screen television simulating a giant waterfall digitally.I was haggard with no sleep and boarded the Skytrain back to Terminal- 3.
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| Inflight dinner on the epic 10 hrs flight from Singapore to Auckland. My longest continuous Air flight during my lifetime of air travel. |
Enquired regarding my boarding gate and checked back into Terminal-3 departure lounge near boarding gate " B 9" with the airport being my residence cum sightseeing locale for the entire day.Kept myself abreast with the latest technology and luxury goods on sale including the unbelievable price of a few liquor brands.Also decided to go on a enforced voluntary fasting and didn't eat a snack let alone a meal in Changi Airport as occasional fasting does have health benefits akin to " Aqua Yoga " in the swimming pool which has done wonders for me.At 1730 hrs passed through the security check at " Gate B9" awaiting to board New Zealand Flight " NZ 283", with the plane ,a beauty, parked outside our waiting lounge on the tarmac.Boarding was prompt and was all set for a long 10hrs flight to Auckland, my longest single non-stop flight in my aviation travel history.Dinner was " Fish/ Western style" along with New Zealand wine.Watched the inflight movie " Priscilla" ,the biopic on Elvis Presleys wife, absolutely boring to me .
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| Finally after leaving Mumbai on Tuesday (12/3/2024) arriving at Auckland in the morning of Thursday (14/3/2024) via the Transit flight and stop- over at Singapore. " Jet Lag" has become a part of my " SOLO TRAVEL" adventures." So far ,so good". |
Thursday(14/3/2024) Arrival Auckland :- Early in the morning we were served breakfast , excellent Western style Omelet .First time i was having 2 meals on a single air flight.Watched the biopic " Ferrari " . A excellent biopic on Ferrari founder Enzo.Ferrari although this movie was financially a box- office flop.Finished the movie just in time of disembarkation from the plane.
Stepped onto Country No 96, New Zealand and at the entrance is a beautiful archway depicting Maori artwork along with traditional Maori music.After touring Chatrapati Shivaji Terminal T2 and incomparable Changi Airport duty free lounges was surprised at the simple decor of Auckland airport, a total anticlimax to the glamour quotient and New Zealand's per/ capita income status in the World
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| On " Victoria Street West "with iconic " Surf ' N' Snow " backpackers building in the background situated on "Albert Street". |
Stepped onto Country No 96, New Zealand and at the entrance is a beautiful archway depicting Maori artwork along with traditional Maori music.After touring Chatrapati Shivaji Terminal T2 and incomparable Changi Airport duty free lounges was surprised at the simple decor of Auckland airport, a total anticlimax to the glamour quotient and New Zealand's per/ capita income status in the World
.Weather was cloudy having rained before our arrival and immigration queue moved quickly .New Zealand lies in the South Western part of the Pacific Ocean and consists of two main landmasses,the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui) and the South Island (Te Waipounamu) and over 700 smaller islands. It is the sixth-largest island country by area and lies east of Australia across the Tasman Sea and south of the islands of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga in the region called Oceania.The islands of New Zealand were the last large habitable land to be settled by humans when between about 1280 and 1350 Polynesians began to settle in the islands and then subsequently developed a distinctive Māori culture. In 1642, the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman became the first European to sight and record New Zealand and in 1769 the British explorer Captain James Cook became the first European to set foot on and map New Zealand.
The current capital city of the country is Wellington, and the largest city is Auckland with both of these cities on the North Island. The largest city on the South Island is Christchurch.The official languages are English, Māori and New Zealand sign language. After being questioned as usual was issued my entry Visa.New Zealand has one of the World's strictest custom regulation's especially regarding importation of alien biological material / Invasive species into the Country to protect its unique isolated flora and fauna.Fines are heavy if any passenger is caught with importing banned food products or plant and animal material.On the exit narrow route , past immigration clearance ,passengers have to walk in a single file and pass through a "Sniffer Dog Security Check" where a Beagle's breed sniffer dog was on duty with its human handler.Seems the dog was too friendly and the chief custom officer randomly picked me up for a security check A headache of opening my luggage with not even a " DUTY FREE LIQUOR" bottle to declare having viewed some of the World's costliest liquor brands. Truth is stranger than fiction. Ahoy !
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| The road leading uphill to SKY TOWER is " Victoria West Street ".My daily route to " Surf' N' Snow" Backpackers from plush shopping Queen Street. |
The current capital city of the country is Wellington, and the largest city is Auckland with both of these cities on the North Island. The largest city on the South Island is Christchurch.The official languages are English, Māori and New Zealand sign language. After being questioned as usual was issued my entry Visa.New Zealand has one of the World's strictest custom regulation's especially regarding importation of alien biological material / Invasive species into the Country to protect its unique isolated flora and fauna.Fines are heavy if any passenger is caught with importing banned food products or plant and animal material.On the exit narrow route , past immigration clearance ,passengers have to walk in a single file and pass through a "Sniffer Dog Security Check" where a Beagle's breed sniffer dog was on duty with its human handler.Seems the dog was too friendly and the chief custom officer randomly picked me up for a security check A headache of opening my luggage with not even a " DUTY FREE LIQUOR" bottle to declare having viewed some of the World's costliest liquor brands. Truth is stranger than fiction. Ahoy !
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| Lower Albert Street Bus station. |
Very polite and courteous officials . Once out of customs headed to the store situated within the airport building to purchase my " AT HOP CARD " for travel on Auckland's public transport system and realized that normal bank travel card's have to pay extra charges while transacting in New Zealand.Distance from Auckland Airport to City centre is 21 Kms.
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| " Queens Arcade " on Queen Street World's top designers shops are on this street. The Main Downtown street of Auckland. Updated my knowledge of luxury watches,etc. |
As usual having done my travel homework had to change two buses to reach my destination in Auckland CBD from Auckland International airport.The public buses are just outside the airport departure building and boarded " No 38 " bus to " One Hunga" with me being the lone passenger , akin to private taxi travel.At every approaching bus stop there is a announcement over the speaker system in Maori and English language regarding the bus stop's name for passengers to alight. Later as the journey progressed a young Indian worker and a Filipino student boarded the empty bus.The bus driver was helpful in explaining me the bus route and later struck a conversation with Filipino student Mr Earl.Tavera who was going to the city centre and we both alighted at " One Hunga" to change buses and boarded the " No 30" bus to final destination Auckland CBD.It was a long drive and got a basic introduction into average Kiwi living through Earl.Tavera.Car parking in Downtown Auckland is very expensive and seems a few budget Aucklander's park their cars in the suburbs and use public transport to travel to Downtown Auckland.Penny pinching for the average income Aucklander ? This probably happens only in Auckland ,also regularly voted one of the best livable city's on Planet Earth.On reaching the city my next greatest task was finding " Surf ' N' Snow" Backpackers situated on Albert Street.
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| The tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere till 2022. " SKY TOWER" of Auckland. In 2023 "Autograph Tower" in Jakarta replaced "Sky Tower" for this title. Records are meant to be broken even in the World of Architectural Marvels. |
There are many Indian origin students and citizens in Auckland and two Indian students guided me in the right direction up Victoria West Street as also a local and finally thanks to a Indian student walked to the entrance of landmark " Surf ' N' Snow " situated in prime downtown Auckland near the Sky Tower.Mr Mohammed.Shamim the receptionist checked my booking details and had to pay extra 4% tax due to payment by a foreign and not local New Zealand card.At 1300 hrs was formally allotted my accommodation in " Room 211" on the second floor and instantly adapted to the now almost redundant " Indian Chawl " /"Boarding School " style living" in First World New Zealand .A mixed dormitory having lady guests with 12 bunk beds, crowded with backpacker luggage as are all International hostels.Barring a few instances have always resided in dormitory hostel's throughout my " SOLO" travels since 2005, beginning in infamous/ famous " Chungking Mansion" of Hong Kong.There were a few Indian students living in the hostel with me probably being the senior most backpacker in this youth themed chic hostel as are most prime downtown hostel's across the Globe.The entire "Armishaws Building" was leased by " Surf ' N' Snow " backpackers whose proprietor was a Japanese ,a bluest of blue chip piece of property in one of the World's costliest city's.There was construction roadwork in progress for a Metro train station on Victoria West road and hence traffic diverted. Internet WiFi was excellent and after a bathe strolled in the vicinity with the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere till 2022 ," Sky Tower" just across the street,In 2023 "Autograph Tower" in Jakarta replaced "Sky Tower" as tallest man made structure in the Southern Hemisphere .
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| " Surf 'N' Snow" Reception room. |
Was surprised at the common restaurant menu prices in the vicinity,absolutely ordinary take-away restaurants.Auckland deserves the title of one of the World's costliest city's in terms of average cost of living for the average common tourist although i presume average Kiwi's wages are on par with the local cost of living in Auckland .Back at the hostel relaxed on the Internet with the hostel reception staff busy with incoming and outgoing guests,definition of the typical International Backpacker hostel.It felt nice hitting my bunk bed and ambient temperature seemed warmer than Mumbai.Bizzarely suddenly realized I had not eaten the entire day with the lavish breakfast on my flight being the only meal of the day.This was my second day of voluntary fasting and although " Lent" season is a time of fasting among Christian's akin to " Ramzan" among the Muslim community never ever voluntarily fasted in my life .The good food back home in Mumbai has made me put on excessive weight and hoped to reduce the same and hence voluntarily less intake of food .Got a hours sleep and my biological clockwork had to yet acclimatize itself to the time difference between Mumbai and Auckland and as usual another night of Insomnia.
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| My first meal in New Zealand Breakfast at " United Coffee Nation " on Federal Street facing the towering symbol of Auckland and New Zealand ,the Sky Tower .Breakfast was the standard Kiwi " Breakfast Croissant". A large croissant stuffed with fried egg and a burger.Beautiful local Kiwi music was playing and gradually got crowded with locals . |
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| Virgin lines cruise ship "Resilient Lady " berthed at Queen Wharf. |
Friday(15/3/2024)Auckland :-Dozed off early morning after a almost sleepless night and woke up at 0800 hrs.It was drizzling and putting on my rain - jacket walked across the street from our landmark hostel onto Federal Street on which Auckland's iconic Sky Tower stands.Entered plush " United Coffee Nation" Cafe on Federal Street next to the Sky Tower, a beautiful open air pavement cafe with morning music. As normal I always taste the local cuisine of the Country and the Standard New Zealand breakfast was " BREAKFAST CROISSANT" costing approximately 16.5 NZ$.One of the World's costliest city's this is a common breakfast and the restaurant was crowded with local customers and not tourist's probably me being the only tourist early in the morning..Was amazed at the price of a water bottle of " Pump" brand which is New Zealand's branded mineral water costing only 5.5 NZ $. Bottled mineral water is a luxury in New Zealand for average tourist's.A similar bottle of Coke or beer was cheaper than this branded mineral water in Auckland .Decided henceforth to be on a liquid diet of Coke or beer during my entire stay in Auckland. Truth is stranger than fiction ! After the plush breakfast had my favourite energy snack " BANANA" whose standard price in shops is 1 $/ Banana.The banana's in New Zealand are mostly imported from Ecuador and sweeter than my native Indian banana's.Noticed a beautiful parked Harley Davidson on the pavement and would have loved to ride a bike on Auckland's streets.
After breakfast the drizzle had stopped and walked towards Lower Albert Street reaching the Downtown Ferry wharf.
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| Alexandra Racepark on Friday. First time in my lifetime of Racecourse attendances attended a " TROTTING RACE Day " |
Came across a old man feeding pigeons and seagulls that were literally walking all over him.A bizarre unbelievable sight.Made my way towards the Ferry boat booking's and inquired the timings and bookings of the ferry's.A " Virgin " line cruise ship the " Resilient Lady" was berthed alongside Queen Wharf with tourists queued with luggage to board the ship.From the wharf walked towards Queen Street entering Britomart Train station,Auckland's Central train terminus that resembled a palatial private office building, absolutely clean and tidy.Searching for a travel agency and inquiring with local Kiwi's finally entered plush "Queens Arcade" shopping centre located on Queen Street and' walked up the escalator into the plush office of "Flexi Tours NZ".Discussed group tours to " Rotorua and Waitomo Caves" and was aghast at the cost of the day tour amounting to NZ $455 which would be my costliest single day tour excluding "Extreme Adventure Sports" tours in any of the 96 country's till date.Inflation was taking its toll on tourists and travel agencies all across the Globe post "Covid-19" pandemic. Told the office representative to keep a place on hold for the day tour as i would decide the actual date in a day and walked back down Queen Street taking the right hand uphill turn onto Victoria West Street and finally Albert Street to home away from home " Surf ' N' Snow " backpackers.Relaxed on the Internet and had a conversation with co-roommate Mr Mohammed Sameer who was a student doing part-time work as do most students studying in Auckland. Later in the afternoon after inquiry with the reception staff walked the short downhill route to Wellesley West Street that led to landmark " Civic Theatre" to board the "No 30" bus to Alexandra Racepark. .
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| In the Grandstand next to the paddock.Trotters can be seen "Parading" in the paddock. Alexandra Racepark is small with a circumference of 1010 meters and for the 2200 meters races the Trotters did 21/4 rounds of the race track. |
All my jet lag disappeared once the races started and in fact the 3rd race of the evening "Happy 92nd Birthday Colleen Edmonds Mobile Pace" at 1857 hrs was in celebration of the 92nd birthday of Colleen Edmonds,a former employee of "Auckland Trotting Club" who post retirement was still actively involved in matters of horse racing .Hence this tribute race to a former employee which proves the fact that horse racing keeps a person fit and healthy provided the bank balance is also healthy.
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| A winner being led into the paddock after the race.It was " Day/ Night Racing" under Floodlights. |
Enjoyed studying a new branch of the sport of horse racing.It was drizzling throughout the races and in a normal Flat racing racecourse the races would have probably got cancelled due to dangerous riding conditions.In the Grandstand club there was also " Slot Machine" gambolling as also simultaneously the " Grey Hound" dog races were telecast on the telivision.All betting was through " TAB MACHINES (TOTE BETTING)" with no "Human Bookies" as in normal racecourses ! Dinner was grand chicken " Buffalo Wings" with local " Lion Red" beer.Reasonably priced considering the ambiance of the racing club,akin to a 5-star hotel.Finally at 2015 hrs decided to head back home and it was real drama boarding the bus back to Auckland City Centre.New Zealand has the highest density of car ownership in the World per capita human population of the Country and hence few people use buses at odd hours besides the general office rush hours.With great difficulty found the bus stop but the bus didn't stop probably because there were no passengers and later i realized that you have to wave at the bus driver for stopping.Headed towards the further bus stop and thanks to a lady who waved her pullover at a bus that it stopped and we both boarded the bus, the only 2 passengers akin to travelling in a private taxi and not common public transport.This happens only in Auckland public transport !
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| Prize distribution ceremony in front of the 1100 meters circumference racetrack.It was a wet rainy day and the owners are under umbrellas.The first time I saw races being conducted in a continuous drizzle of rain.The slippery paddock ring pathway indicates the wet ground condition.In "Flat Racing" the races would be cancelled because of dangerous ground conditions. |
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| Peloton of Morning cyclists on Tamaki Drive passing alongside " Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium " Auckland has "CYCLE LANES" in the city . |
The young lady seemed either intoxicated as it was " Friday Night" or she had some mental disturbance as she was very agitated and made regular inquiries with the driver, akin to hiring a taxi rather than being in public transport.She finally alighted at a stop and as I was the lone passenger had a conversation with the driver who was a Indian citizen from Kerala on a work permit and yet to acquire New Zealand citizenship.He guided me at the right stop just outside " Sky City " Hotel.The entire vicinity was lit up in illumination and " Sky Tower" was lit up in awesome red colour .Walked the short distance from Federal Street to " Surf ' N' Snow" and seems the racecourse visit had brought stability to my jet lag and time difference adjustments. For the first time since leaving Mumbai I got my usual 4 hrs sleep.
Saturday (16/3/2024) Auckland :- Was surprised to wake up late and happy that my physiology got accustomed to change in time zones between the two hemispheres. Decided to visit Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium and thankfully there was no rain.Walked out of the residence and took the downhill route of Victoria West Street as I had yesterday and stepped into the " Countdown Supermarket" and was surprised to find reasonably priced foodstuff including bananas.
Poverty in different forms exists all across the globe and at the entrance of "Countdown Supermarket" were a pair of beggars requesting money.Breakfast was a burger roll which I munched walking along Queens Street towards Britomart Station.On enquiry was shown the bus stop and boarded the blue colour bus to Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium. A beautiful bus drive across Auckland harbour that was spotlessly clean unlike most harbours and I couldn't believe it was the main commercial shipping harbour.Crossed the bridge and got a view of Auckland's passion for yachting and hence nicknamed 'The City of Sails" reminding me of Rimini and Cannes in Europe.Finally at 0845 hrs was the first tourist at entrance of " Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium " whose main entrance door was shut.Came across numerous cyclists on their early morning rides ,typically European passion although New Zealand has yet to produce a outright " Tour De France" winner.The Tamaki drive coastal road of Auckland is awesome for early morning cycling.At 0930 hrs the gate opened and there was a long queue of a holiday crowd.Entrance fee was 45 NZ $ ."Kelly Tarlton's sea life aquarium " was opened in 1985 and the brainchild of New Zealand Marine archaeologist and deep sea diver Kelly Tarlton after whom it is named.
This aquarium has been built in disused sewage tank's and hence partly below sea level and was the first aquarium in the World to use acrylic based curved tunnels for viewing rather than the normal flat glass viewing aquariums.This aquarium's main attractions are the "ANTARCTICA WORLD" and the "UNDERWATER WORLD". Viewing the exhibits is by walking in a straight line through a passage pathway and the first exhibit was the replica Hut cabin of South Pole explorer Capt Robert.Falcon.Scott when he lived in the Antarctica during his failed and fatal expedition to be the first to reach the South Pole.Although he did reach the South Pole on 17 January 2012 his ambition to be the first was a disappointment as Roald.Amundsen of Norway had beaten him in the race being the first human to reach the South Pole. Some of the exhibits were original belongings of that Hut cabin.Next was entrance into the Antarctica landscape having King and Gentoo penguins. Very well explained exhibits and children make up most of the viewers along with their parents.First time I viewed penguins from such close distance through the glass partition.Next major exhibit is a large shallow pond which has exhibits of various fish , small Sting Ray's and rescued amphibian's with a large turtle with one flipper missing being a major attraction.
This locale also houses the refreshment restaurant and a view of the sea through the glass partition.Weather was bright sunshine and perfect for outdoor sports and saw groups of paddlers Kayaking in the sea .Next was the compartment exhibiting rare seahorses .Got to view corals and jelly fish as also the biggest lobster's .Last exhibit was through the innovative moving walkways, one of the first in the World for aquariums .Stood on the "Moving Platform" and was taken across the Shark / Giant Sting Ray tank tunnel which by itself was worth the entire entrance ticket charges.After the viewing made my way up above the undersea aquarium onto sea level in bright Sunshine.Boarded the bus and alighted near Britomart Station . Walked over to the Ferry ticket booking and inquired of launch departures to Tiritiri Matangi Island.
A New cruise ship had anchored in Queen Wharf and Auckland was definitely a prime port for Cruise ships..Walked back towards Queen Street and came across Street performers ,something common in all major tourist hubs of the Globe.Purchased a snack from the department store and lunch was a single samosa/ Coke.Back at hostel relaxed on the Internet and later in the evening walked down to Federal Street to keep my appointment with fellow Mazagon Docks Mariner batchmate Mr Brian.Lowe who invited me to his residence.At 1700 hrs Brian arrived and even though I was seeing him after 40 years recognized him instantly as he stopped his car approaching me.In Bombay had known Mr Brian.Lowe since my college day's of 1977/78 where my childhood classmate Mariner Mr Biju.Karian and myself were studying in "Kirti College". Later thanks to the Goodwill of Mr Biju.Karian's father that i got a seat in the "4 Year Marine Engineering Course(1978-1982) " batch at Mazagon Dock Ltd.Mr Biju.Karian joined a year later and destiny played a role in me becoming a "Marine Engineer" and not a "Lawyer" which i would have been had i not got admission into the Shipping Industry.Truth is stranger than fiction.Co-incidentally Brian , a excellent hobbyist electrical technician who got my tape recorder repaired during our teenage college years also got a seat in the same batch as me and the friendship continued.Later lost touch with Brian after sailing and recently happened to enquire with another fellow Marine Engineer batchmate Mr Manu.Masalamani also settled in Auckland about the whereabouts of Mr Brian.Lowe and he gave me his "WhatsApp" number.Thank's to "Internet Era" and "WhatsApp" which was non-existent in the 1980's when we began our sailing career that i got in touch with Mr Brian Lowe and he spared some time from his busy work schedule on Saturday, a holiday,for meeting me in Auckland.
He drove me to his house in Blockhouse Bay next to Mt Roskill , a suburban locality of Auckland . During the drive got a glimpse of the beautiful Kiwi suburb countryside with poster card Cottage style houses having green garden's and trees.On the way Brian stopped at "Sri Ganesh ,Indian food and spices" ,a Gujarati owned shop to buy some "Bombay Chukna" and observed a few Indian owned shops in the vicinity,a mini India.Mr Brian Lowe and his wife Mrs Ruby.Lowe showed me their beautiful bungalow house including Brian's personal garden in which he grows seasonal vegetables in summer.A palatial cottage house with all family member's including his son owning a car.The ultimate "First World" vehicle with New Zealand having the largest number of car's in the World/per capita population. For the first time came across the Feijoa tree and fruit grown by Brian in his backyard.Excellent fruit and this tree is native only to New Zealand.The entire Lowe family had migrated to New Zealand from India. Later they took me out to dinner at " Tapsi" restaurant on Dominion Road in Mt Roskill locality specializing in Middle Eastern food .At the restaurant told Brian to ring up my classmate Mr Behram.Kerawala to which the phone was not being picked up but later he sent a message asking for Brian's credentials. Brian texted him that i was in Auckland and wanted to speak to him.
After a long gap Behram answered through a phone call and we both had a talk with Behram stating he was busy organizing some Parsi function in Auckland.In school we both acted in the Shakespearean play "A Merchant of Venice" on the main school hall stage where the chief guest was Indian English poet, actor, musician and dramatist Late Harindranath.Chattopadhyay .In this play Behram played the role of "Shylock" , fellow classmate Mr Philip.Boniface now a millionaire Australian citizen involved in the tourism business played "Antonio" and last of all your's truly played the role of "Bassanio". I presume Behram avoided me presuming in real life "Bassanio" wanted to meet "Shylock" for a loan .Ahoy ! Mr Manu.Masalamani through whom i got Brian's contact number was back in India for some personal business and was very happy that both, my school as well as marine batchmates were well off in their new home, New Zealand.
Change is Permanent. Excellent lavish Oriental food although i felt Indian food cooked back in India was of a different class .Later we went for a long drive passing along Auckland Harbour Bridge over Waitemata harbour and getting a night view of Auckland city with Sky Tower illuminating the night.Dessert was ice-cream at the popular seaside suburb of Mission Bay having numerous beach facing restaurants .There was a queue at "Movenpick" ice-cream restaurant with a few Indian tourists in the queue and after purchasing the ice-cream had a walk along Mission Bay Beach where a Busker was singing to himself ,the Saturday night beach crowd having evaporated as it was late at night. Enroute on the return journey did the scenic coastal Tamaki drive finally reaching Sky Tower where i alighted from the car.Thanked Brian and Ruby.Lowe for their hospitality and on my way to home away from home the popular prominent pub "The Fiddler,Irish Bar" on Victoria West Street just a few meters from my hostel was blaring with music." Saturday Night" partying was still young at 2230 hrs.A little ahead of the "Fiddler Bar" was the "Taj Mahal, Indian food Mantra" restaurant and i am sure Indian origin Kiwi's don't feel homesick in distant New Zealand.The World is a small place in the World of Cuisine and Auckland has restaurants catering to all types of international tastes.
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| Inside " Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium ".A pioneer in "FISH TANK DESIGN". The unique designed aquarium's acrylic viewing fish tank tunnel with fish swimming overhead above the viewer has been the model for many aquariums across the Globe.Today it is common in prominent fish aquariums across the Globe. |
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| Recreating the ANTARCTICA LANDSCAPE King and Gentoo Penguins. Permanent Artificial Frozen Ice. |
Poverty in different forms exists all across the globe and at the entrance of "Countdown Supermarket" were a pair of beggars requesting money.Breakfast was a burger roll which I munched walking along Queens Street towards Britomart Station.On enquiry was shown the bus stop and boarded the blue colour bus to Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium. A beautiful bus drive across Auckland harbour that was spotlessly clean unlike most harbours and I couldn't believe it was the main commercial shipping harbour.Crossed the bridge and got a view of Auckland's passion for yachting and hence nicknamed 'The City of Sails" reminding me of Rimini and Cannes in Europe.Finally at 0845 hrs was the first tourist at entrance of " Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium " whose main entrance door was shut.Came across numerous cyclists on their early morning rides ,typically European passion although New Zealand has yet to produce a outright " Tour De France" winner.The Tamaki drive coastal road of Auckland is awesome for early morning cycling.At 0930 hrs the gate opened and there was a long queue of a holiday crowd.Entrance fee was 45 NZ $ ."Kelly Tarlton's sea life aquarium " was opened in 1985 and the brainchild of New Zealand Marine archaeologist and deep sea diver Kelly Tarlton after whom it is named.
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| A model of the "LOG CABIN" in " Kelly Tarlton's Sea life Aquarium " where Captain Robert.Falcon.Scott and his expedition members lived during their expedition to the South Pole in 2012.Roald.Amundsen of Norway had beaten him in the race being the first human to reach the South Pole.After reaching the South Pole Capt Robert Scott and his team members perished on the return journey home from the South Pole. A few exhibits are original's from that last "Antarctica Log Cabin" of 2012 in which Robert Scott and team perished. |
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| Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium was a innovator in installing" Moving Walkways " for viewers through the acrylic based curved observation tunnel's of this gigantic fish tank having some of the World's largest Short tail Giant Sting Ray's and Shark's. |
This aquarium has been built in disused sewage tank's and hence partly below sea level and was the first aquarium in the World to use acrylic based curved tunnels for viewing rather than the normal flat glass viewing aquariums.This aquarium's main attractions are the "ANTARCTICA WORLD" and the "UNDERWATER WORLD". Viewing the exhibits is by walking in a straight line through a passage pathway and the first exhibit was the replica Hut cabin of South Pole explorer Capt Robert.Falcon.Scott when he lived in the Antarctica during his failed and fatal expedition to be the first to reach the South Pole.Although he did reach the South Pole on 17 January 2012 his ambition to be the first was a disappointment as Roald.Amundsen of Norway had beaten him in the race being the first human to reach the South Pole. Some of the exhibits were original belongings of that Hut cabin.Next was entrance into the Antarctica landscape having King and Gentoo penguins. Very well explained exhibits and children make up most of the viewers along with their parents.First time I viewed penguins from such close distance through the glass partition.Next major exhibit is a large shallow pond which has exhibits of various fish , small Sting Ray's and rescued amphibian's with a large turtle with one flipper missing being a major attraction.
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| "PACKHORSE LOBSTER" species Lobsters are always viewed as a luxury sea food .At the Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium spotted these gigantic lobsters in their natural artificial environment. One of the World's largest Lobster species which can weigh upto 15 Kg Only ! |
This locale also houses the refreshment restaurant and a view of the sea through the glass partition.Weather was bright sunshine and perfect for outdoor sports and saw groups of paddlers Kayaking in the sea .Next was the compartment exhibiting rare seahorses .Got to view corals and jelly fish as also the biggest lobster's .Last exhibit was through the innovative moving walkways, one of the first in the World for aquariums .Stood on the "Moving Platform" and was taken across the Shark / Giant Sting Ray tank tunnel which by itself was worth the entire entrance ticket charges.After the viewing made my way up above the undersea aquarium onto sea level in bright Sunshine.Boarded the bus and alighted near Britomart Station . Walked over to the Ferry ticket booking and inquired of launch departures to Tiritiri Matangi Island.
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| One of my dream travel is to visit the Continent of Antarctica. Here i am on the Snowmobile kept in " SCOTTS HUT" in Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium. Even as a tourist the cheapest visit to the Antarctica has the budget akin to the purchase of a Sports Super bike. Besides, excellent physical fitness is a priority. Most of all, the luck of the weather during the voyage should be on your side. Even in 21st century technology its a "EXTREME ADVENTURE TRAVEL" |
A New cruise ship had anchored in Queen Wharf and Auckland was definitely a prime port for Cruise ships..Walked back towards Queen Street and came across Street performers ,something common in all major tourist hubs of the Globe.Purchased a snack from the department store and lunch was a single samosa/ Coke.Back at hostel relaxed on the Internet and later in the evening walked down to Federal Street to keep my appointment with fellow Mazagon Docks Mariner batchmate Mr Brian.Lowe who invited me to his residence.At 1700 hrs Brian arrived and even though I was seeing him after 40 years recognized him instantly as he stopped his car approaching me.In Bombay had known Mr Brian.Lowe since my college day's of 1977/78 where my childhood classmate Mariner Mr Biju.Karian and myself were studying in "Kirti College". Later thanks to the Goodwill of Mr Biju.Karian's father that i got a seat in the "4 Year Marine Engineering Course(1978-1982) " batch at Mazagon Dock Ltd.Mr Biju.Karian joined a year later and destiny played a role in me becoming a "Marine Engineer" and not a "Lawyer" which i would have been had i not got admission into the Shipping Industry.Truth is stranger than fiction.Co-incidentally Brian , a excellent hobbyist electrical technician who got my tape recorder repaired during our teenage college years also got a seat in the same batch as me and the friendship continued.Later lost touch with Brian after sailing and recently happened to enquire with another fellow Marine Engineer batchmate Mr Manu.Masalamani also settled in Auckland about the whereabouts of Mr Brian.Lowe and he gave me his "WhatsApp" number.Thank's to "Internet Era" and "WhatsApp" which was non-existent in the 1980's when we began our sailing career that i got in touch with Mr Brian Lowe and he spared some time from his busy work schedule on Saturday, a holiday,for meeting me in Auckland.
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| Mazagon Docks Marine Engineering Batchmate(1978-1982) Mr Brian.Lowe and his wife Mrs Ruby.Lowe took me out to dinner at "Tapsi" restaurant.Brian and myself were meeting after 40 years.We last met in Calcutta now Kolkata in 1984 when we both were 5th Engineers and happened to be in Calcutta port sailing on two different ship's in two different companies.Yes, we both have travelled long difficult voyages ,in life as well as at sea. As for me it is my signature quote about life and living, quote, "So far, So Good". |
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| The vegetables and fruit garden in Brian.Lowe's Bungalow estate. This is the Feijoa tree. He also grows tomatoes and chilies during summer |
He drove me to his house in Blockhouse Bay next to Mt Roskill , a suburban locality of Auckland . During the drive got a glimpse of the beautiful Kiwi suburb countryside with poster card Cottage style houses having green garden's and trees.On the way Brian stopped at "Sri Ganesh ,Indian food and spices" ,a Gujarati owned shop to buy some "Bombay Chukna" and observed a few Indian owned shops in the vicinity,a mini India.Mr Brian Lowe and his wife Mrs Ruby.Lowe showed me their beautiful bungalow house including Brian's personal garden in which he grows seasonal vegetables in summer.A palatial cottage house with all family member's including his son owning a car.The ultimate "First World" vehicle with New Zealand having the largest number of car's in the World/per capita population. For the first time came across the Feijoa tree and fruit grown by Brian in his backyard.Excellent fruit and this tree is native only to New Zealand.The entire Lowe family had migrated to New Zealand from India. Later they took me out to dinner at " Tapsi" restaurant on Dominion Road in Mt Roskill locality specializing in Middle Eastern food .At the restaurant told Brian to ring up my classmate Mr Behram.Kerawala to which the phone was not being picked up but later he sent a message asking for Brian's credentials. Brian texted him that i was in Auckland and wanted to speak to him.
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| View of plush suburban Mission Bay from Mission Bay Beach. |
After a long gap Behram answered through a phone call and we both had a talk with Behram stating he was busy organizing some Parsi function in Auckland.In school we both acted in the Shakespearean play "A Merchant of Venice" on the main school hall stage where the chief guest was Indian English poet, actor, musician and dramatist Late Harindranath.Chattopadhyay .In this play Behram played the role of "Shylock" , fellow classmate Mr Philip.Boniface now a millionaire Australian citizen involved in the tourism business played "Antonio" and last of all your's truly played the role of "Bassanio". I presume Behram avoided me presuming in real life "Bassanio" wanted to meet "Shylock" for a loan .Ahoy ! Mr Manu.Masalamani through whom i got Brian's contact number was back in India for some personal business and was very happy that both, my school as well as marine batchmates were well off in their new home, New Zealand.
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| " SKY TOWER " illuminated at night.Next to it is " Sky City Hotel" and " Sky City Casino " I lived a few meters from " Sky Tower". Prime Downtown Auckland. |
Change is Permanent. Excellent lavish Oriental food although i felt Indian food cooked back in India was of a different class .Later we went for a long drive passing along Auckland Harbour Bridge over Waitemata harbour and getting a night view of Auckland city with Sky Tower illuminating the night.Dessert was ice-cream at the popular seaside suburb of Mission Bay having numerous beach facing restaurants .There was a queue at "Movenpick" ice-cream restaurant with a few Indian tourists in the queue and after purchasing the ice-cream had a walk along Mission Bay Beach where a Busker was singing to himself ,the Saturday night beach crowd having evaporated as it was late at night. Enroute on the return journey did the scenic coastal Tamaki drive finally reaching Sky Tower where i alighted from the car.Thanked Brian and Ruby.Lowe for their hospitality and on my way to home away from home the popular prominent pub "The Fiddler,Irish Bar" on Victoria West Street just a few meters from my hostel was blaring with music." Saturday Night" partying was still young at 2230 hrs.A little ahead of the "Fiddler Bar" was the "Taj Mahal, Indian food Mantra" restaurant and i am sure Indian origin Kiwi's don't feel homesick in distant New Zealand.The World is a small place in the World of Cuisine and Auckland has restaurants catering to all types of international tastes.
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| Cathedral of St Patrick and St Joseph is a heritage Catholic church situated at the corner of Federal Street and Wyndham Street. It is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Auckland .The Church is commonly referred to as "St Patrick's Church" and is the seat of the Bishop of Auckland.Had attended 0800 hrs Sunday mass and Brian.Lowe's younger brother Fr Glenford Lowe solemnised the mass service. Wished him after the mass as the Priest normally stands at the entrance/exit of the church after mass to greet his parishioner's .Was totally unaware that he was Brian's brother until Brian informed me later on inquiry.It was "St Patrick's Day"feast .Unlike most of European churches that have few church attendee's was pleased to see the entire church full with devotee's. |
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| Inside " St Patrick's Cathedral" at the culmination of Sunday Mass service. |
Sunday (17/3/2024)Auckland:- After my usual insomniac sleep went to the toilet and realized my ancient Dinosaur binoculars was missing from the rack in the room.After my bathe went to the receptionist and reported the same.Later got dressed and walked out of the hostel up Victoria West Street onto Federal street towards St Patrick and St Joseph Cathedral for the 0800 hrs Sunday mass.Unlike most of European city's where I have attended Sunday mass the congregation for the 0800 hrs mass at Auckland's St Patrick Cathedral was in good numbers .Today was " St Patricks Day" ,the patron Saint of the Irish .After the mass which was of one hour duration walked back to my backpacker hostel and texted Brian and on inquiry was surprised to know that the priest who conducted the mass was Brian's younger brother Fr Glenford.Lowe.
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| "St Patrick's Day Celebration" :- Temporary Stage set at "Britomart Station" Square . Irish Folk Music being performed by a band using Irish folk musical instruments. |
After the mass Fr Glenford.Lowe stood outside the church greeting his parishioner's and even i shook hand's with him little realizing he was Brian's younger brother although definitely of Indian origin.It's a real small World.Breakfast was a burger type sandwich from " Countdown Supermarket" and walking down Queens Street noticed barricades being erected to restrict traffic and on inquiry was told that there would be a grand " St Patrick's Celebration Parade" along Queen Road.Actually my agenda was to visit the Auckland zoo but then seeing the fact that a entire street was made automobile free for a parade made me change plans and I decided to view the parade.In the meantime watched the carnival type atmosphere at the Square facing Britomart train station.
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| With a Bugler participating in the " St Patrick's Day Celebration parade " The Lady's were calling him "Prince Charles". |
There were also a few individuals displaying Palestine flag's as a protest against the war in Gaza .A temporary stage was created in the square where a band of musicians were performing Irish folk music.Something different to normal music and musical instruments. There was also a game of skill for raffle as also eatable stalls.Very festive atmosphere on a cool Sunday morning with no drizzling rain playing spoiled sport.Finally at 1145 hrs walked up to Queen Street which had a huge crowd gathered on either side of the road.At 1200 hrs the grand parade began and I thanked Lady luck for putting me at the right place at the right time.The parade was part carnival and of the highest standards with brass band music, juggler acrobats and floats depicting the nature of St Patrick's festival as celebrated in Ireland as New Zealand and Auckland has a large Irish population.One brass band troupe played a beautiful version of the Beatles classic, " Hey Jude".After the grand parade walked back to my hostel dropping into " Countdown Supermarket " to buy a snack and a bunch of bananas.Poverty in different forms does exist in all First World Country's including New Zealand .
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| Start of " St Patrick's Day Celebration Parade" passing along Queen Street. Huge crowd on both footpaths of the street to watch the parade . |
At the entrance of Countdown Supermarket were a few local squatters requesting money.Busking is a common mode of earning some money and is common in most tourist locales.The most recognizable Busker to make it big in the World of music is Rod.Stewart.After brief snack at the basement dining/ kitchen of the hostel made my way towards " SKY CITY CASINO".The casino was on the first floor of the building and was surprised that anyone was allowed as otherwise majority of Casino's ask for a identification card, usually passport's for foreigners.The escalator took me to the first floor and I thought I had seen all the large casino's of the World barring Las Vegas until I stepped onto the first floor of " SKY CITY ".The casino was huge,and a sea of slot machines greeted my eyesight.It was also crowded and I enquired about " SPORTS BETTING" and was directed towards the " POKER SECTION" of the casino.On one side of this gaming zone were the poker tables with players while in the inside at one corner was a typical sports betting shop with 2 small T.V screens depicting " Live" horse racing and greyhound racing at different centre's.Akin to " Alexandra Park Racecourse " betting was only through the " TAB" Tote machines with no bookies involved.All automation.
Watched the horse and dog races with " Horse trotting" races also displayed and was baffled at the vast choices of ģambling wondering which particular sport or slot machines attracted most eye balls and money .
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| " St Patrick's Day Parade " Flotilla of musician,comedians. |
Rugby is the National sport of New Zealand and the giant screen in the Poker /Sports Betting section was showing a "Live" Rugby match which i presume attracted maximum bets akin to Cricket matches in India.Was highly impressed by the large advertisement board's displaying quotes on the game of poker which is partly a game of skill and not purely based on luck.Photography is not allowed in Casino's otherwise would have photographed these quotes. Noticed a lot of Indian origin player's/spectators in Sky Casino,both men and women. One of the reason's of photography being strictly prohibited in Casino's across the Globe is that "GAMBLING" is still considered taboo in majority of cultures ,besides, wealthy gambler's would not be liked being photographed with their " Wife/ Mistress" if men ,"Husband/Toy Boy " if women or Husband/Wife if a "Gay Couple".Most important reason for not permitting photography could be that in a Casino the "SOURCE" of the money is not questioned and Mr X or Mrs Y, Ms Z would not like to be seen splurging in a Casino if the money is unaccountable. Ahoy ! The casino name "SKY CITY" was ideal as the entire floor resembled a gambling city, to be seen to be believed
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| Grand " St Patrick's Day " Celebration parade on QUEEN STREET of Auckland. |
.At various wings of this gambling floor were restaurants and a bar and having visited Monaco, Nice,Cannes and Macau gambling casino's should say " SKY CITY" is up there in the sky with the World's best casino's. If visiting Auckland and even if you are a staunch anti-gambling advocate i feel it is mandatory to visit "Sky City Casino" to understand the economics and frenzy of gambling.Remember the film "Casino Royale" based on the first novel written by Spymaster author Ian.Fleming that started the most profitable film franchisee in history "James Bond Franchisee" ? Later in the evening walked down to Queen Street with life returning to normal after the massive " St Patricks Day " street parade.Walked upto Downtown Queen harbour and tasted a Cone ice-cream( Gelato) at " Island Gelato co" that normally has a long queue for ice-cream during peak hours. Walked towards Auckland Maritime museum where a sailing boat ride is offered to tourists. Walking past Auckland Maritime museum entered Viaduct harbour with a row of expensive yachts parked, including a original " America's Cup" boat on which tourists are offered rides to know and brag of the experience of sailing on a authentic " America Cup" yacht.There are plush restaurants facing the harbour which was crowded with youngster's dressed in the trade mark Green celebrating " St Patricks Day".
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| Inside "SKY CITY HOTEL".New Zealand is predominantly a Christian country and "EASTER CELEBRATIONS" was well in progress in the hotel."SKY CITY" casino is on the first floor of the hotel ,occupying the entire flow akin to a football field. To be seen to be believed. |
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| Auckland is nicknamed "THE CITY OF SAILS". Anchored in Viaduct harbour in Auckland is the sailboat "The Spirit of New Zealand" that takes tourists on a cruise across the Hauraki Bay .Sailing and ownership of Yachts is a passion of the Kiwi's. |
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| Plush harbour facing restaurants in Viaduct Harbour. |
The wharf was a throng of activity with tourists and locals.Finally walked back to my residence " Surf ' N' Snow" and on the way dropping into " Countdown Supermarket " to purchase a energy bar.On arriving at my hostel was stunned to see my binoculars kept back in the same place from where it was missing.A repeat of what happened to me in Tbilisi in Georgia when my locker was opened and purse found missing.Only difference was in Tbilisi the complaint by the hostel staff was filed in the police station while in this case it was handled by hostel management.In both cases my belongings were mysteriously returned anonymously.Truth is stranger than fiction. My sleep patterns were erratic but at least I was now getting 3 + hrs sleep.
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| Entrance to Auckland Zoo |
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| Rare Sumatran tiger cub. |
Monday(18/3/2024) Auckland :- After my normal routines and the usual now familiar daily walk to " Countdown Supermarket " for my breakfast purchase returned back to hostel.After breakfast walked down to Lower Albert Street and boarded No 18 bus to the Auckland zoo.Not sure of the actual stop I asked a young lady passenger and she told me to alight and board the 11c bus.I did as she told me realizing she played a prank on me as No 18 and No 11C bus both were heading to the same bus stop near Auckland zoo.This has happened to me numerous times during my travels hence I always double check directions and for the first time this happened in New Zealand where the average Kiwi is absolutely helpful, most importantly bus driver's.Boarded the 11C bus at Y.M.C.A bus stop and had a talk with the driver .and honestly as a Solo traveller you never ever walk alone.Another couple wanting to go to the zoo were in the same bus and we finally alighted on directions of the bus driver.Honestly during my solo public transport travel across Auckland it was bus driver's that guided me to my place of destination and a blessing in disguise as Auckland's buses are not packed with passenger's.
Finally alighted the bus at Western Springs bus stop and from there it was a short walk to the Zoo .Entrance ticket was NZ $ 29 and was given a guide map of the zoo.
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| TROPICAL DOME :-Climate controlled "Tropical Swamp Rainforest" section in Auckland Zoo.The roof of this dome is made of ethylene tetrafluoroethylene which is highly transparent and allows sunlight to penetrate the Dome for plants and animals inside this dome to get the critical Ultra Violet ray's needed.Helps maintain the internal Dome temperature at 28*C throughout the year.Rain harvested water from across the zoo is used for filling the ponds.There are also special artificial misting and rain systems created inside the dome. A entire "TROPICAL ECOSYSTEM" exists inside this Dome. |
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| Antipodes Island parakeet |
Auckland zoo is 40 acres in size and opened on Saturday 16 December 1922.The Zoo is separated into divisions pertaining to the region of the origin of different animal species exhibited. On entering the zoo there were direction indicators and my fist visit was to the Sumatran tiger's where I was lucky to view the cub and its mother in a playful mood.Also got the rare sight of the tigress stalking a bird and charging at it akin to a cat.Walked through the enclosed " Tropical Dome" which is artificially maintained at a tropical temperature to create a swamp forest complete with tropical plants and animal life.From the tropical swamp forest visited the primates section and got to view the Siamang monkeys swinging from the rope- ways in their spacious enclosure.Among the Orangutans spotted the oldest " Charlie" sitting in a corner of a tree top home.Also spotted a baby Orangutan.Next entered the New Zealand habitat section "Te Wao Nui" opened in 2011 and which most interested me as I have never seen bird species found only in New Zealand and nowhere else in the World .
Have seen Giant Panda's outside China in European zoo's and Hong Kong but never ever a rare endangered bird from New Zealand in any of the World's popular zoo's
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| The Siamang with arms twice as long as their legs swinging around the ropes and tree tops in its artificial tropical zoo jungle. |
. Walking through the walk -in aviary came across the " Antipodes Island parakeet " that seemed like a docile parakeet accustomed to humans walking through its domain.Reminded me of my own late Alexandrine parakeet "Mittoo" who lived in my house in Mumbai for 22 long years.Later in the Kia Parrot enclosure was lucky to see this mountain dwelling land Parrot literally walk towards me and entering a brackish waterbody.Spotted the " Takahe" , a native bird of New Zealand presumed extinct and rediscovered in 1948.Last among the New Zealand species to visit was also the most awaited ,the Kiwi.The Kiwi is a nocturnal bird and hence this particular section of exhibits were in the dark enclosure.Was lucky to see the lone Kiwi busy foraging akin to a chicken.So finally in my life I had seen a live living Kiwi bird that is known the World over but a mystery to most Humans.Next visited the African habitat zone which had a good collection of rhino's, giraffe's and zebra's.Spotted a lone cheetah and lion's .The elephant enclosure was empty as the resident Indian elephants had been sent to other zoo's..Also came across Meercat's and the Ring tailed lemur.In the Australian section saw the Brolga bird and parrots. Among mammals the prime exhibit was the Tasmanian Devil.Last exhibit I viewed was the giant 53 year old Galapagos tortoise called " Smiley".
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| Brolga native bird of Australia in Australia section of zoo. |
One exhibit missing was " SNAKES" and New Zealand has no snakes either in the country or as exhibits in the zoo.Also there are no crows in New Zealand . Made my way back to the bus station and boarded a 11C bus finally alighting on Queen Road.Lunch was self made sandwiches with a Tsingtao beer purchased from " Countdown Supermarket " which was on the route along Victoria West Street back home away from home, "Surf 'N' Snow" Backpackers.After lunch walked back to Queen Street and entered Queen Arcade to visit the office of " Flexi Tours (NZ)". Booked the " Rotorua & Waitomo caves " tour costing NZ$ 455.Exchange rate of 1NZ$ = Rs 52 . This is a large sum in Indian Rupees , one of my costliest single day tours as I normally spent such huge amounts on extreme adventure sports which cost me a fortune. Seems after " Covid - 19" pandemic most travel agencies and backpacker's had permanently closed shop and hence abrupt hike in all tour prices akin to rise in price of flight ticket's post " Covid-19" pandemic travel resumption across the Globe.
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| " Smiley", the 53 year old Galapagos tortoise. |
Back at the hostel ,dinner was the boring sandwich with coke and had a conversation with young Mr Murli, a Indian from Hyderabad with the stature of a jockey employed in Auckland and akin to a jockey also having injured his hand from a fall .He had been staying in this hostel since December,driving to work in his own car parked in some place with heavy "Parking charges" and would cook his own meals as did most backpackers.Mr Murli was perfectly at home away from home as were other "Long resident Backpackers" of "Surf 'N' Snow ". In fact the basement kitchen cum mess-room of " Surf 'N' Snow " resembled the kitchen of a 5- star hotel having all the modern gadgets for cooking as well as different cuisines from across the Globe being cooked in the pantry.Lots of Japanese youngster's including Japanese staff in the hostel whom i met at the mess room , probably because the owner was Japanese.As for me my nomadic travels make me adjust to situations and circumstances and after initial teething troubles which in this case was severe " JET LAG" travelling from Mumbai to Auckland made this hostel my temporary home..As usual just a few hours sleep.
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| On the summit of Maungawhau(Maori) or Mount Eden which is the highest mountain in Auckland |
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| Extinct Bowl crater in the centre of Mt Eden which is 50 meters( 160ft) deep. This crater resembles a grass meadow as seen in this photo.This crater is very sacred to the Maori people and entrance into this crater strictly prohibited for outsiders. |
Tuesday (19/3/2023)Auckland:- Breakfast was the standard bread with cold meat cuts purchased from " Countdown Supermarket ". After breakfast walked down Queen Street and inquired the location of No 27 bus stop at Britomart.Was guided to the same and walked along Custom street and arrived at the bus stop finally boarding the bus mostly filled with college students.At Auckland University most of the students alighted and the bus was almost empty.On seeing the Mt Eden signpost along the road inquired with the driver and was told to alight at the next stop.As mentioned Auckland street's in outer city locales are deserted and seeing the rare pedestrian inquired the uphill direction to the summit of Mt Eden.Mt Eden is a very affluent suburb of Auckland dominated by the volcanic mountain named Maungawhau (Mt Eden)in Maori language. Was guided in the right direction and it was a steep inclined walk across a excellently paved road.Finally from the road there was a narrow wooded staircase leading up the mountain to the summit of Mt Maungawhau(Mt Eden) .Not a tiring walk considering the excellent ground condition and cool pleasant weather.
Finally without any huffing or puffing reached the summit and at 196m(644 feet) tall, Maungawhau or Mount Eden is the highest volcano mountain in Auckland.
From the summit it was spectacular views of the city and its harbours with my binoculars which paid dividends at the right time.In fact entire city of Auckland is visible including Alexandra Race park where I had attended the trotting races on Friday night, a day after my arrival in Auckland . Eden Park ,established in 1900 as a Cricket stadium and now the National Stadium of New Zealand being World famous for its Rugby and Cricket matches was clearly visible through binoculars .A easy trek on a paved road and wooden pathways. To add to the ambiance and beauty of the mountain was the weather which was bright and Sunny.There is a large extinct bowl crater in the centre of the mountain which is 50 meters(160 ft) deep and is considered sacred by the Maori people.The bowl crater resembled a carpeted grass meadow and entry into this deep bowl crater is strictly forbidden.After inhaling fresh mountain air and just admiring the view from the summit decided to return back to the hostel.The descent was too easy as the road was excellent and on arriving at the base boarded the No 27 bus back to Britomart. My " AT Hop Card" balance was negative and on arriving at my hostel on Albert Street got the same topped up with NZ $20.
Bus fare in Auckland was akin to travel by Taxi's in my home city of Mumbai.After changing my attire walked down the now familiar route like a Kiwi and at " Downtown Harbour " inquired the Ferry to Devonport.Was directed to " Pier 2" in Queen Wharf with the " AT Hop card" valid for Ferry usage.
The Ferry left the pier at 1200 hrs and it was a splendid sight of Auckland CBD as we sailed across the harbour .
Within 12-15 minutes we reached Davenport jetty and walking out of the Ferry Terminal was transported into a picture post card North shore suburb of Auckland. Strolled in the vicinity past the landmark post office building and heritage Esplanade hotel , the roads as clean as the flooring of a normal house.Entered the Devonport supermarket which had a excellent display of fish products on sale which reminded me of eating some quality fish for lunch.The take- away food counter had excellent variety including chicken/ rice packets.Purchased " Roasted salmon/ potato/ bread/ coke" and exiting this large supermarket inquired with two local's of a outdoors seating location to eat my meal .
They pointed to a beautiful decorated bench situated on a uphill road and hence made myself comfortable on a " Dragon Bench" in the midst of awesome greenery.Felt I was in Hong Kong rather than in one of the most beautiful locales on Devonport in Auckland.The ambiance was awesome and as a writer/ blogger you are never alone even in total solitude.This inclined hillock was a pathway leading from from Fleet street at the lower level to Victoria Road situated on the upper level of this small hillock.While relishing my lunch a few local's passed alongside and surprisingly on inquiry they didn't know the name of this pathway.After lunch walked up the pathway and saw volcanic Mount Victoria towering in front of me.Having already walked to the summit of Mount Eden in the morning I was in no hurry to prove I am superhuman by trekking another towering mountain in the afternoon.Read a bold signpost on the road headlining " Stanley Point " and realized that " Stanley Point " was a prominent tourist destination in Devonport.Walking down the empty street searching for a pedestrian and was lucky to come across a elderly local couple on a regular walk and inquired about " Stanley Point ".
The gentleman told me it was a point that provided the best view of Auckland CBD and thanking him decided to board the local bus.
Was lucky to immediately get the No 806 bus and it was a short drive to " Stanley Point " situated almost at the end of Devonport Island.The view of Auckland CBD ,shipping harbour, Naval harbour and sailing yacht's was splendid.Auckland is also known as the " City of Sails" as sailing is a passion as can be seen by the number of yachts parked in various locales of the Waterfront. Through my binoculars spotted the names of a few sailing boats with fancy names like " Rattle Rum", " Black Swan and " Cloud 9" .As a former " Marine Engineer" with 23 years of onn/ Off sea sailing experience below my belt admired Auckland harbour where besides the Maersk vessel another general carrier ship named " Cosmo Gloria" loaded with container cargo was parked alongside the wharf.Finally after about 20 minutes the bus arrived and headed back to Devonport boat jetty.Boarded the Catamaran ferry and was back at Downtown harbour.Visited the " Harbour Information " centre for booking a ticket for " Tiritiri Matangi Island" and made a booking for Friday(22/3/2024) costing NZ $ 105.
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| View of a section of Auckland from Mt Eden. |
From the summit it was spectacular views of the city and its harbours with my binoculars which paid dividends at the right time.In fact entire city of Auckland is visible including Alexandra Race park where I had attended the trotting races on Friday night, a day after my arrival in Auckland . Eden Park ,established in 1900 as a Cricket stadium and now the National Stadium of New Zealand being World famous for its Rugby and Cricket matches was clearly visible through binoculars .A easy trek on a paved road and wooden pathways. To add to the ambiance and beauty of the mountain was the weather which was bright and Sunny.There is a large extinct bowl crater in the centre of the mountain which is 50 meters(160 ft) deep and is considered sacred by the Maori people.The bowl crater resembled a carpeted grass meadow and entry into this deep bowl crater is strictly forbidden.After inhaling fresh mountain air and just admiring the view from the summit decided to return back to the hostel.The descent was too easy as the road was excellent and on arriving at the base boarded the No 27 bus back to Britomart. My " AT Hop Card" balance was negative and on arriving at my hostel on Albert Street got the same topped up with NZ $20.
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| View of "AUCKLAND FERRY TERMINAL " building also called "DOWNTOWN FERRY TERMINAL".The ferry terminal is composed of two main elements, a yellow Edwardian Baroque building facing Queen Street and the CBD, and newer wharves and a waiting area building ,the actual ferry terminal of today facing the Waitematā Harbour(Auckland Harbour) which is shown in this photo.The building was designed by Alex Wiseman, and erected by Philcox and Sonns and completed in 1912. Made of sandstone and brick with a base of Coromandel granite, on reclaimed land. |
Bus fare in Auckland was akin to travel by Taxi's in my home city of Mumbai.After changing my attire walked down the now familiar route like a Kiwi and at " Downtown Harbour " inquired the Ferry to Devonport.Was directed to " Pier 2" in Queen Wharf with the " AT Hop card" valid for Ferry usage.
The Ferry left the pier at 1200 hrs and it was a splendid sight of Auckland CBD as we sailed across the harbour .
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| Picture postcard houses in Davenport Village Volcanic Takarunga/Mt Victoria can be seen behind these houses. At 66 Meters Takarunga/ Mt Victoria is the highest mountain on North Shore of Auckland. |
Within 12-15 minutes we reached Davenport jetty and walking out of the Ferry Terminal was transported into a picture post card North shore suburb of Auckland. Strolled in the vicinity past the landmark post office building and heritage Esplanade hotel , the roads as clean as the flooring of a normal house.Entered the Devonport supermarket which had a excellent display of fish products on sale which reminded me of eating some quality fish for lunch.The take- away food counter had excellent variety including chicken/ rice packets.Purchased " Roasted salmon/ potato/ bread/ coke" and exiting this large supermarket inquired with two local's of a outdoors seating location to eat my meal .
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| Lunch in Devonport Village on the hillside "Dragon Bench".Indescribable ambiance. |
They pointed to a beautiful decorated bench situated on a uphill road and hence made myself comfortable on a " Dragon Bench" in the midst of awesome greenery.Felt I was in Hong Kong rather than in one of the most beautiful locales on Devonport in Auckland.The ambiance was awesome and as a writer/ blogger you are never alone even in total solitude.This inclined hillock was a pathway leading from from Fleet street at the lower level to Victoria Road situated on the upper level of this small hillock.While relishing my lunch a few local's passed alongside and surprisingly on inquiry they didn't know the name of this pathway.After lunch walked up the pathway and saw volcanic Mount Victoria towering in front of me.Having already walked to the summit of Mount Eden in the morning I was in no hurry to prove I am superhuman by trekking another towering mountain in the afternoon.Read a bold signpost on the road headlining " Stanley Point " and realized that " Stanley Point " was a prominent tourist destination in Devonport.Walking down the empty street searching for a pedestrian and was lucky to come across a elderly local couple on a regular walk and inquired about " Stanley Point ".
The gentleman told me it was a point that provided the best view of Auckland CBD and thanking him decided to board the local bus.
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| Indescribably beautiful Devonport village in Auckland. |
Was lucky to immediately get the No 806 bus and it was a short drive to " Stanley Point " situated almost at the end of Devonport Island.The view of Auckland CBD ,shipping harbour, Naval harbour and sailing yacht's was splendid.Auckland is also known as the " City of Sails" as sailing is a passion as can be seen by the number of yachts parked in various locales of the Waterfront. Through my binoculars spotted the names of a few sailing boats with fancy names like " Rattle Rum", " Black Swan and " Cloud 9" .As a former " Marine Engineer" with 23 years of onn/ Off sea sailing experience below my belt admired Auckland harbour where besides the Maersk vessel another general carrier ship named " Cosmo Gloria" loaded with container cargo was parked alongside the wharf.Finally after about 20 minutes the bus arrived and headed back to Devonport boat jetty.Boarded the Catamaran ferry and was back at Downtown harbour.Visited the " Harbour Information " centre for booking a ticket for " Tiritiri Matangi Island" and made a booking for Friday(22/3/2024) costing NZ $ 105.
The 2.2 Km(1 Sq Mile) Tiritiri Matangi island is a open nature reserve noted for its rare New Zealand birdlife which includes Takahe,North Island Kokako and the Kiwi.
Visited Viaduct Harbour to find out the location for boarding the ferry to Tiritiri Matangi Island and returned back to hostel through Lower Albert Street.Dinner was a pint of " Paderborner pilsner" from Germany along with a pork pie and bananas as Tsingtao beer was sold out .On checking my E-Mail realized that there was a date disparity in the booking of the "Tiri Matangi" tour , a error on part of the booking authorities.Todays trek to Mt Eden despite " Jet lag" and 2 to 3 hrs sleep proved that hopefully physical retirement age is a long way off and " So far so good".Just couldn't sleep until past 0200 hrs and woke up at 0600 hrs approximately, my normal 4 hrs sleep but with bizarre timings. Late Michael.Jackson wouldn't be surprised ! I envy people who just go to sleep on hitting the bed but that's life and living .
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| New Zealand Maritime Museum located at Hobson Wharf near entrance to Viaduct Harbour.The museum has a fleet of heritage vessels.Tourists can sail on any of these vessels as per arrangements. |
Visited Viaduct Harbour to find out the location for boarding the ferry to Tiritiri Matangi Island and returned back to hostel through Lower Albert Street.Dinner was a pint of " Paderborner pilsner" from Germany along with a pork pie and bananas as Tsingtao beer was sold out .On checking my E-Mail realized that there was a date disparity in the booking of the "Tiri Matangi" tour , a error on part of the booking authorities.Todays trek to Mt Eden despite " Jet lag" and 2 to 3 hrs sleep proved that hopefully physical retirement age is a long way off and " So far so good".Just couldn't sleep until past 0200 hrs and woke up at 0600 hrs approximately, my normal 4 hrs sleep but with bizarre timings. Late Michael.Jackson wouldn't be surprised ! I envy people who just go to sleep on hitting the bed but that's life and living .
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| Auckland Fish market :- Situated in Wynyard enclave of Auckland is a indoor-outdoor hub featuring stalls for fresh fish & counters serving informal seafood dishes.No fish smell and spotlessly clean market, akin to being in a fish anatomy museum. |
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| Auckland Viaduct Basin .View from Viaduct Harbour. |
Wednesday(20/3/2024) Auckland :- Early morning breakfast was one of the longest Ecuadorian banana's which i had purchased in a bunch from "Countdown Supermarket" along with a protein bar.Walked down to the "Harbour Information" booking office at Queen Wharf to inform them about the booking error that instead of 22 March they had booked for 29th March, a total mistake on the part of the booking office.Theyadmitted their fault and said i would be refunded and so that was the end of my "Tiritiri Matangi" trip scheduled for Friday(22/3/2024) hoping to spot some of New Zealand's rare bird .This is the hazard of "SOLO TRAVEL" compared to "GROUP TOURS" where in group tours the entire scheduled tour is planned by the tour company and in case of last minute changes adjustments made to the tourist guests. As a "SOLO TRAVELLER" you should consider travelling akin to running your own business with you being your own boss and at times bearing the monetary losses as well as last minute adjustments in tour plans with no one to blame but bad luck and circumstances.
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| A view of a section of a fish monger's shop in " Auckland Fish Market ". Resembles more of a fish anatomical museum |
Has happened with me on numerous occasions.Walked past Viaduct harbour onto Wynyard Enclave and further down the road to the "Auckland Fish Market" building situated near landmark " ASB Waterfront Theatre".A local New Zealander guided me in directions and one of the reasons of Auckland being voted as one of the best city's in the World could be because there is a very positive attitude among the average population. The average Kiwi is very helpful akin to the Japanese. Without visiting the local fish market in any country or city i would never complete my tour of the country .
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| ASB Waterfront Theatre in Wynyard Quarter. Home of "Auckland Theatre Company". 675 seat State of the Art Theatre, Dance and a film venue . |
After being my own "BOSS" as a "INVESTOR" post retirement from the Shipping Industry my only physical job at home is cycling, swimming and visiting the local market to purchase fish or meat products.As in all First World (High Income) Country's, the Auckland Fish market was spotlessly clean and also had a large dining restaurant for visitors and guests which opened at 1100 hrs.Seems "Sanford and Sons" established in 1904 were the most prominent fish mongers in Auckland with their huge advertisement on a section of the building wall.At 0900 hrs i was early and except for the 5-Star style fish mongers selling their fish there were no other customers.Made my way back towards Britomart station and down plush Queen Street where i entered a shop selling "Patek Phillipe" and "Rolex " watches.On enquiry was told the cheapest Patek Phillipe cost only NZ $ 50,000 and cheapest Rolex NZ$ 10,000 only.
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| At Albert Park, a historical park in Downtown Auckland. |
Did someone say a 'WATCH " is outdated in the era of "SMARTPHONES" ? Thankfully not. Ahoy ! Had a late breakfast at the hostel, the usual boring beef/pork sandwiches/coke from "Countdown Supermarket".A shift from glasses of tea at home in Mumbai to Coke in Auckland like my Guru Warren. Buffet.I avoid normal restaurants not because of the cost but because the food ordered is usually meant for two persons and i hate wasting food and hence daily visits to "Countdown Supermarket" where i can order as per my requirements and which is a short downhill walk on Victoria West street.Change is permanent.Later in the afternoon walked down Victoria West street and crossing Queen Street made my way uphill towards Victoria East street walk finally entering historical "Albert Park". Instantly reminded me of a miniature version of Hyde Park in London with a "Speakers Corner" stage at one end of the park .The park was developed in its present form in the 1880's and has a number of ancient tree's dating back to the 1880's and First World War.
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| Auckland University Clocktower. |
There is also a War Memorial in the park.Spotted the University of Auckland clocktower and walked downhill from the park towards the University entrance gate.Back to college days in a different environment, a different era and a different country. Travel educates !Walked back towards the one and only Queen Street and entered "JB Hi-Fi" the poshest and largest music shop on Queen street which has the World's leading brands having their retail shops on this street.This shop also sold laptops and after ages saw vinyl records being sold, a flashback to the 1970's although there were no tape cassettes for sale of which i have a massive collection back home in Mumbai. Change is permanent.
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| " ROCK SHOP" on Karangahape Road where I saw the largest display of different guitar's in a single shop Karangahape Road Rocks ! |
Next boarded a red coloured "City Bus" with destination being Karangahape Road.It was a short drive to Karangahape road also called "K' road a infamous/famous locality of Auckland since the 1990's after the "Sex Industry" took over the area with the "VEGAS GIRLS" hoarding , once upon a time a prominent strip club being one of the last remnants of a bygone era of overindulgence of the sex industry.In 2022 "Karangahape Road " was voted the "World's Coolest Street" as it comes alive in the evening. In the afternoon it was deserted but could see a lot of bars and eateries including a plush Indian origin restaurant alongside the street.Today "K" road is the centre of much of Auckland's Bohemian life for tourists and locals including the LGBT community .
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| "THE VEGAS GIRLS" hoarding say's all that was once "Karangahape Road" when from 1960's up to 1990's it had a reputation of a "Red Light" area of Auckland.Now it is considered one of the cultural centres of Auckland and in 2022 was voted "The Hippest street in the World" by "Time Out" magazine. The sex Industry does exist at a miniscule level and Karangahape road is Auckland's main LGBTQ District. Friday Night Partying begins at 2200 hrs upto early morning . |
This locality is also historic as a refugee base for the queer people.I did observe First World poverty on the street in Karangahape and entered a large music shop named "ROCKSHOP" where i came across the largest collection of guitars on sale .Coincidentally the street opposite this shop was named "Liverpool Street" and seems the Beatles must have inspired this massive music instruments retail shop established in 1986 that sold every music instrument.Karangahape is meant to be visited at night and finally boarded the bus back to Queen Street. A late lunch was "Chinese Fried" rice at "Xiao Rourou" , a small restaurant on Victoria West street near my hostel.
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| In the local bus with a commuter's cycle. Would have loved cycling on Auckland's roads. |
Back at the backpacker hostel relaxed on the Internet in the main reception lounge room .I love living in different hostel's for the simple reason that besides being the cheapest form of accommodation in any country they are also the rendezvous of cultures and sex's from different country's . My room now had more women guests than males and all living harmoniously without disturbing the other. Petty thefts are a part and parcel of any backpacker hostel as guests from all walks of life, nationalities and monetary backgrounds live in the same space.The pantry/mess room of any hostel resembles the kitchen of a plush multicuisine hotel.I could write a separate book of my experience of living in various hostels across the Globe not to forget the numerous ship's during my employment in the "Merchant Navy". Life and living is one big long voyage.
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| View of the Pōhutu Geyser at Whakarewarewa in Te Puia .It is the largest Geyser in the southern hemisphere and among the most active in the area, erupting up to twenty times per day at heights of up to 30 m (98 ft). |
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| A anxious wait outside "Sky City Casino/Hotel" for the 'Flexi Tours NZ' van tour to " Rotorua City and Waitomo Caves".. |
Thursday (21/3/2024)Auckland :- A sleepless night and was also happy to note " Fullers" which had made a mistake in my booking had repaid NZ $ 105 to my travel card.Some monetary relief for a total blunder on behalf of the company.At 0545 hrs made my way out of the hostel and walked the short distance to Sky City Casino/ hotel which was the meeting point for boarding the group tour car of "Flexi Tours NZ" to "Rotorua and Waitomo" caves.As I was early used the escalator to go to the first floor of Sky City casino and at 0600 hrs the slot machines had customers and gambling casino's never ever close .
At 0635.hrs I was a bit worried as the " Flexi Tours" vehicle didn't show up while two other tour vans passed along.Heaved a sigh of relief when at 0645 hrs the white Mercedes Mini van of " Flexi Tours " arrived with maximum tourists boarding from " Sky City Hotel".Our driver cum guide Mr Edson.Tavares introduced himself and finally we began our long 226 Km drive to Rotorua.
We were a total of 10 tourists of different nationalities,all families except for a young Japanese lady and myself.Driver/ Guide Mr Edson of Brazilian descent was hilarious and very informative. There was a heavy morning traffic rush of vehicles heading North into Auckland as most of Auckland's employee's stay in the suburbs of the city where housing is cheaper.Remember the penny pinching which i mentioned that most working class Aucklander's park their vehicles in the suburbs where "Parking" is free and use public transport to reach their factory or place of work. The quote "The grass is always green on the other side" holds true for Auckland where although the city has a high standard of living its still a tough life for the average Aucklander.At 0730 hrs we were in the suburbs of Auckland past Papakura and heading towards the Bombay hills enclave named Bombay after a ship of that name.New Zealand is a multicultural society and Indian and Chinese descent immigrants have contributed a lot to the Country.
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| Approaching Rotorua noticed the unique Volcanic landscape with trees on a tiny hill of Mamaku plateau. |
We were a total of 10 tourists of different nationalities,all families except for a young Japanese lady and myself.Driver/ Guide Mr Edson of Brazilian descent was hilarious and very informative. There was a heavy morning traffic rush of vehicles heading North into Auckland as most of Auckland's employee's stay in the suburbs of the city where housing is cheaper.Remember the penny pinching which i mentioned that most working class Aucklander's park their vehicles in the suburbs where "Parking" is free and use public transport to reach their factory or place of work. The quote "The grass is always green on the other side" holds true for Auckland where although the city has a high standard of living its still a tough life for the average Aucklander.At 0730 hrs we were in the suburbs of Auckland past Papakura and heading towards the Bombay hills enclave named Bombay after a ship of that name.New Zealand is a multicultural society and Indian and Chinese descent immigrants have contributed a lot to the Country.
A elderly American couple was in the tour group and the elderly gentleman had visited a few city's in India and he loved India..Suddenly a thick fog engulfed the entire vicinity with visibility reduced to a few meters.We drove along with the New Zealand highway's being absolutely smooth akin to driving on a " Formula 1 " racetrack road.
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| Main Entrance gate to Te Puia ,Rotorua Geothermal park and Maori Arts and Crafts Institute. |
Finally the fog cleared and it was a awesome drive along the countryside of New Zealand.
At times we drove alongside the Waikato river and the view of cattle grazing on the green grass hill meadows was picture postcard, typical of a European countryside. New Zealand is very European in all aspects even in its landscape.At 0810 we passed alongside the city of Hamilton famous as a tourist destination for its Hot balloon rides.The Weather God's were in our favour and it was bright and sunny as usually it tends to drizzle in the morning or could even rain throughout the day.New Zealand weather in March is unpredictable. After the city of Hamilton we passed alongside the countryside of Cambridge famous for its horse breeding Industry in New Zealand. Spotted a few horses on the farms but wondered if they were " Trotter" horses or " Flat Racing thoroughbreds" , having witnessed " Trotter racing" for the first time in my life at Alexandra Park Raceway.For the first time saw a " Deer Farm" on the banks of the Waikato river where deer are bred akin to cattle for their venison meat which is mostly exported.The Waikato River is the longest river in New Zealand, running for 425 kilometres (264 miles) through the North Island. It rises on the eastern slopes of Mount Ruapehu, joining the Tongariro River system and flowing through Lake Taupō, New Zealand's largest lake.So we were lucky to get a glimpse of the longest river of New Zealand.New Zealand is the World's number one country in exporting farm raised venison.Stopped for a short break at Tirau which is dubbed the "Corrugated Capital of The World" and has 3 unique Ewe, Ram and Dog shaped corrugated buildings with the Ram and Ewe buildings having shops while the dog building had toilets which we utilized.
This is also the same route leading to Hobbiton made world famous as the location of shooting of the movie "Lord of the Rings". The "Hobbiton" movie" set is located in a 1250 acre traditional sheep and beef farm in a small agricultural town called Matamata in the heart of Waikato district.There are separate combination day tours of "Hobbiton movie set and Waitomo Glow worm caves" from Auckland just like ours Approaching Rotorua noticed the abrupt change in topography on the Mamaku plateau as this particular region was in the Volcanic zone .There were a few scattered small Volcanic hills with trees that are called "Tree Statues" as they truly resemble artificial statues and came across one unique rock pillar jutting out of a small hill akin to a Totem pole.Tors are unusual rock formations found at various spots on the Mamaku Plateau near State Highway 5 on which we were travelling , west of Lake Rotorua, and you can’t miss them due to their uniqueness in comparison to the surrounding topography. Formed by the gasses and debris from volcanic eruptions, and the hardening then eroding of this material over time, they create natural statues and pillars that are strikingly different from more common rock formations. They look like nature’s been busy carving and making an artistic statement across the Plateau.At 0945 hrs we were finally at the entrance gate of Te Puia.In a group tour everything is planned to the scheduled timing and our tour slot was allotted for 1000 hrs as prior booking is essential .
Van loads of tourists arrive at Te Puia and Waitomo caves to see the Thermal Geysers and underground cave landscape ,one of New Zealand's biggest tourist attraction.This was also ancient historical Maori land, the original settlers of New Zealand.Our guided tour began at 1005 hrs and was conducted by a young Maori lady guide.We were a large group in this batch of a guided tourist walk of the Te Puia Rotorua geothermal park.She first read the name of the
valley in Maori language which was a tongue twister to us tourists and then told us to repeat the same which i am sure most couldn't,absolute tongue twister.My first sight of the Geothermal geysers was akin to seeing a thick fog of scattered mist in a small vicinity of land.
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| Bubbling Mud Pools in Te Puia Rotorua geothermal park.A Strong smell of Sulphur emits from these fumes. |
At times we drove alongside the Waikato river and the view of cattle grazing on the green grass hill meadows was picture postcard, typical of a European countryside. New Zealand is very European in all aspects even in its landscape.At 0810 we passed alongside the city of Hamilton famous as a tourist destination for its Hot balloon rides.The Weather God's were in our favour and it was bright and sunny as usually it tends to drizzle in the morning or could even rain throughout the day.New Zealand weather in March is unpredictable. After the city of Hamilton we passed alongside the countryside of Cambridge famous for its horse breeding Industry in New Zealand. Spotted a few horses on the farms but wondered if they were " Trotter" horses or " Flat Racing thoroughbreds" , having witnessed " Trotter racing" for the first time in my life at Alexandra Park Raceway.For the first time saw a " Deer Farm" on the banks of the Waikato river where deer are bred akin to cattle for their venison meat which is mostly exported.The Waikato River is the longest river in New Zealand, running for 425 kilometres (264 miles) through the North Island. It rises on the eastern slopes of Mount Ruapehu, joining the Tongariro River system and flowing through Lake Taupō, New Zealand's largest lake.So we were lucky to get a glimpse of the longest river of New Zealand.New Zealand is the World's number one country in exporting farm raised venison.Stopped for a short break at Tirau which is dubbed the "Corrugated Capital of The World" and has 3 unique Ewe, Ram and Dog shaped corrugated buildings with the Ram and Ewe buildings having shops while the dog building had toilets which we utilized.
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| At the viewing ground of the "POHUTU THERMAL GEYSER" in Te Puia. Fumes emitting from crevices in the ground. |
This is also the same route leading to Hobbiton made world famous as the location of shooting of the movie "Lord of the Rings". The "Hobbiton" movie" set is located in a 1250 acre traditional sheep and beef farm in a small agricultural town called Matamata in the heart of Waikato district.There are separate combination day tours of "Hobbiton movie set and Waitomo Glow worm caves" from Auckland just like ours Approaching Rotorua noticed the abrupt change in topography on the Mamaku plateau as this particular region was in the Volcanic zone .There were a few scattered small Volcanic hills with trees that are called "Tree Statues" as they truly resemble artificial statues and came across one unique rock pillar jutting out of a small hill akin to a Totem pole.Tors are unusual rock formations found at various spots on the Mamaku Plateau near State Highway 5 on which we were travelling , west of Lake Rotorua, and you can’t miss them due to their uniqueness in comparison to the surrounding topography. Formed by the gasses and debris from volcanic eruptions, and the hardening then eroding of this material over time, they create natural statues and pillars that are strikingly different from more common rock formations. They look like nature’s been busy carving and making an artistic statement across the Plateau.At 0945 hrs we were finally at the entrance gate of Te Puia.In a group tour everything is planned to the scheduled timing and our tour slot was allotted for 1000 hrs as prior booking is essential .
Van loads of tourists arrive at Te Puia and Waitomo caves to see the Thermal Geysers and underground cave landscape ,one of New Zealand's biggest tourist attraction.This was also ancient historical Maori land, the original settlers of New Zealand.Our guided tour began at 1005 hrs and was conducted by a young Maori lady guide.We were a large group in this batch of a guided tourist walk of the Te Puia Rotorua geothermal park.She first read the name of the
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| View of a section of the Maori Arts and Crafts centre .Artisans at work. |
valley in Maori language which was a tongue twister to us tourists and then told us to repeat the same which i am sure most couldn't,absolute tongue twister.My first sight of the Geothermal geysers was akin to seeing a thick fog of scattered mist in a small vicinity of land.
The Pōhutu Geyser at Whakarewarewa in Te Puia is the biggest Geyser in the. Southern Hemisphere.After seeing the tallest Geyser in the Southern Hemisphere from a distance we were next taken to the " Kiwi Conservation centre".There were two resident Kiwi birds and posters explaining the conservation programme of the extremely endangered National bird of New Zealand. We were led in a single file into the " Dark Night enclosure" of the Kiwi Birds akin to the Auckland zoo but here I got a better view of the Kiwi bird due to infra ray lighting inside the enclosure.
The Kiwi is a odd looking bird having a long yellow beak and stubby strong yellow feet.It has the body resembling a guinea fowl and foraging habits akin to a chicken, continuously pecking at the ground in search of food.From the " Kiwi Conservation centre" we were led to the hot mud pools which had sulphuric acid fumes being emitted from the bubbling mud.If a person fell into this bubbling.mud he or she would slowly sink in while simultaneously being boiled alive.Scary but true.From the " Mud Pools " we walked along to the main close-up viewing platform of the World famous " Pohutu Geyser".The Geyser was spouting steam akin to a fountain and the surrounding ground was also emitting steam vapor in small quantities. A scene straight out of a National Geographical movie clip.From the " Pohutu Geyser" view point we were next led into a toy train which drove us back to the main entrance gate.
Our next visit was to the building housing the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute an indigenous traditional art school.It operates the national schools of three major Māori art forms. NZMACI opened in 1963 as a successor school to the previous national school for woodcarving in Rotorua. |
| Train buggy to transport tourists from site of Pohutu Geyser to Maori Arts and crafts centre. |
The Kiwi is a odd looking bird having a long yellow beak and stubby strong yellow feet.It has the body resembling a guinea fowl and foraging habits akin to a chicken, continuously pecking at the ground in search of food.From the " Kiwi Conservation centre" we were led to the hot mud pools which had sulphuric acid fumes being emitted from the bubbling mud.If a person fell into this bubbling.mud he or she would slowly sink in while simultaneously being boiled alive.Scary but true.From the " Mud Pools " we walked along to the main close-up viewing platform of the World famous " Pohutu Geyser".The Geyser was spouting steam akin to a fountain and the surrounding ground was also emitting steam vapor in small quantities. A scene straight out of a National Geographical movie clip.From the " Pohutu Geyser" view point we were next led into a toy train which drove us back to the main entrance gate.
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| On grounds of "GOVERNMENT GARDEN " in Rotorua with the timber framed palatial "MUSEUM BUILDING" formerly the "Bath House" in the background .Originally known as Paepaekumana, the Government Gardens are situated on the lake Rotorua's edge in downtown Rotorua.The New Zealand Government opened a large bath house here in 1908. A second building, the Blue Baths, opened in 1933, amidst much controversy, as mixed bathing was accommodated,a first of its kind. The Blue Baths were closed in 1982, and restored in 1999–2000. The original 1908 Bath House closed to bathing in 1966 and the building was extensively renovated in 1995 and converted into a museum.The Rotorua Museum, housed in the former Bath House building, looks over the Government Gardens.There are sports facilities, including the Blue Baths swimming pool, a bowling green, and a croquet lawn. There is also a bandstand. |
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| Second building of " BLUE BATHS " on Government Gardens adjacent to the " Museum Building " |
Maori people are fond of tattoos and noticed many Maori women having a tattoo on their chin reminding me of the Longwa tribe of Nagaland in India.It was wonderful observing the Maori women weave baskets .The next training school exhibit was of a gigantic tree trunk being dissected into logs.Our next view was of the skilled wood carver's doing their carvings on pieces of wood.In 24 hrs a single handicraft by a Maori craftsman was completed and ready for sale or export.The last section was the precious jewel's designing section where jewellery holds a certain cultural significance and not monetary value to the Maori people.After viewing the Maori Arts and craft Institute got a partial view of the Maori cultural show performed on the open ground next to the Arts and craft institute.This was a separate paid show and our group was not included but yet got to observe the Maori welcome ceremony held on the open ground in public view.
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| Paddle boat " Lakeland Queen " lying abandoned on the wharf of Lake Rotorua. A victim of the " COVID 19" Worldwide Tourism Apocalypse. This " Paddle boat " cruises on Lake Rotorua was in business for over 3 decades until 2021. |
Rest of the show was in the enclosed auditorium.Next ,our group of ten tourists headed to the grand dining lounge where a buffet lunch was served with the restaurant having a excellent view of the " Pohutu Geyser". Excellent buffet lunch with the dessert being beyond culinary description.After lunch visited the " Souvenir shop" and with my house filled with handicrafts and souvenirs decided to purchase a T- Shirt ,a memorabilia of my visit to a unique locale on Planet Earth.
From Te Puia we drove towards Waitomo caves.Enroute we had a brief stop at the " Government Gardens" in Rotorua which was once a bath house and has the original Tudor style bathhouse built in 1908 intact and which now houses the Rotorua Museum and art gallery although the same was closed for visitors as it was undergoing renovation and earthquake strengthening.The grounds of this garden are used for the aristocratic game of " Lawn Bowling".Drove alongside Rotorua lake and observed a rare lone black Swan on the lake.
Passed alongside Rotorua tourism paddle boat which lying unused and abandoned by the wharf as its business group Lakeland Queen has gone into liquidation.
It comes after the company ceased trading due to Covid-19 three years ago. The vessel hosted tourist cruises on Lake Rotorua for more than three decades until pandemic border closures forced it into hibernation in 2021, with staff made redundant. " COVID -19" devastated the tourism Industry all across the Globe. Driving along came across "ZORB ROTORUA" site, ecstatic to know that we were at the site of the locale where the first commercial "Zorbing Circuit" was constructed by the inventors of Zorbing,Kiwi's Andrew Akers and Dwane van der Sluis.Downhill ball rolling in a giant transparent plastic inflatable sphere can be experienced all over the world today thanks to two New Zealander's , Andrew Akers and Dwane van der Sluis, who invented the craze in 1994. ZORB Rotorua is owned and operated by Andrew and his brother David in Rotorua and all balls are manufactured in their Rotorua factory and exported around the world. Guide Edson stopped our vehicle at the base of the "Zorb Circuit" hoping we would see some tourist zorb downhill but being tourist off-season seems there was no frenzy for a queue to get into a "ZORB" and roll downhill a la James Bond style.
Please note that "ZORBING" is a "Extreme Adventure Sport" and a few deaths have resulted in a few country's due to "ZORBING". Driving ahead passed alongside a Backpackers resort which had the giant statue of the extinct flightless Moa bird .There was also a small zoo in the backyard having a pair of ostriches and a Emu.The entire area of Rotorua region has volcanic activity and Guide Edson showed us the sulphuric acid accumulation on the periphery of lake Rotorua .
Passed alongside Rotorua tourism paddle boat which lying unused and abandoned by the wharf as its business group Lakeland Queen has gone into liquidation.
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| Scenic New Zealand Countryside with cattle grazing. |
It comes after the company ceased trading due to Covid-19 three years ago. The vessel hosted tourist cruises on Lake Rotorua for more than three decades until pandemic border closures forced it into hibernation in 2021, with staff made redundant. " COVID -19" devastated the tourism Industry all across the Globe. Driving along came across "ZORB ROTORUA" site, ecstatic to know that we were at the site of the locale where the first commercial "Zorbing Circuit" was constructed by the inventors of Zorbing,Kiwi's Andrew Akers and Dwane van der Sluis.Downhill ball rolling in a giant transparent plastic inflatable sphere can be experienced all over the world today thanks to two New Zealander's , Andrew Akers and Dwane van der Sluis, who invented the craze in 1994. ZORB Rotorua is owned and operated by Andrew and his brother David in Rotorua and all balls are manufactured in their Rotorua factory and exported around the world. Guide Edson stopped our vehicle at the base of the "Zorb Circuit" hoping we would see some tourist zorb downhill but being tourist off-season seems there was no frenzy for a queue to get into a "ZORB" and roll downhill a la James Bond style.
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| "ZORB ROTORUA" :-World’s First Downhill Ball rolling park ZORB, where it all started right here in 1994 in Rotorua, New Zealand.The transparent plastic inflated ball can be seen on the top of the gradually inclined meadow hill. Local New Zealander's Andrew Akers and Dwane van der Sluis invented the craze in 1994 and ZORB Rotorua is owned and operated by Andrew and his brother David at this site. All of the balls are manufactured in their Rotorua factory and exported around the world.Zorbing entered the Concise Oxford English Dictionary in 2001 where it was defined as, “A sport in which a participant is secured inside an inner capsule in a large, transparent ball which is then rolled along the ground or down hills ”. |
Please note that "ZORBING" is a "Extreme Adventure Sport" and a few deaths have resulted in a few country's due to "ZORBING". Driving ahead passed alongside a Backpackers resort which had the giant statue of the extinct flightless Moa bird .There was also a small zoo in the backyard having a pair of ostriches and a Emu.The entire area of Rotorua region has volcanic activity and Guide Edson showed us the sulphuric acid accumulation on the periphery of lake Rotorua .
At 1520 hrs reached the entrance gates of Waitomo caves. Again there was a large tourist crowd and our guided tour slot was at 1530 hrs.Our tour guide Ms Cheryl was a Maori descendant of the original discoverer's of these caves over a 100 years ago.This entire Waitomo caves is now owned by the Maori trust and the employees are descendants of the original founder's of this cave tourism.Photography inside the caves is strictly prohibited and before entering the cave a professional photographer takes a photo of each visitor, a common routine at most tourist sites across the Globe.
The photo's can be purchased later after completion of the tour and there is no compulsion to purchase these photo's .Entering the caves we were transported into a different subterranean World.Beautiful Stalactites and Stalagmites and very well preserved.We finally came into a cave chamber called the " Cathedral" whose natural acoustics was excellent and a Maori lady sang a traditional Maori song in this chamber .We got our first glimpse of the " Glow Worms" in a corner of this chamber with the subterranean stream flowing below.We finally boarded the small boat and were rowed across the narrow channel inside the cave.The cave ceiling resembled a night sky with stars shining bright as the glow worms illuminated the cave ceiling with their glowing bodies.The boat was not rowed but towed across by means of a overhead cable which the Maori Oarsman pulled across, a excellent out of the World boat ride.Etched in.memory forever.After the boat ride we began our long almost 3 hrs journey back to Auckland finally reaching Sky Tower at 1945 hrs.
End of a wonderful but expensive sightseeing tour of prime sites in New Zealand as also getting a glimpse of New Zealand countryside and Maori culture.Had a normal 4 hrs sleep in the hostel
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| End of the subterranean boat ride through Waitomo Glowworm caves. |
The photo's can be purchased later after completion of the tour and there is no compulsion to purchase these photo's .Entering the caves we were transported into a different subterranean World.Beautiful Stalactites and Stalagmites and very well preserved.We finally came into a cave chamber called the " Cathedral" whose natural acoustics was excellent and a Maori lady sang a traditional Maori song in this chamber .We got our first glimpse of the " Glow Worms" in a corner of this chamber with the subterranean stream flowing below.We finally boarded the small boat and were rowed across the narrow channel inside the cave.The cave ceiling resembled a night sky with stars shining bright as the glow worms illuminated the cave ceiling with their glowing bodies.The boat was not rowed but towed across by means of a overhead cable which the Maori Oarsman pulled across, a excellent out of the World boat ride.Etched in.memory forever.After the boat ride we began our long almost 3 hrs journey back to Auckland finally reaching Sky Tower at 1945 hrs.
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| Group tour visit to Rotorua city, Te Puia and Waitomo Glowworm caves with ," www.FlexiToursNZ.com" in this Mercedes mini bus.We were a total of 10 tourists from different parts of the Globe , couples or families.Memories of a lifetime.Our driver cum guide Mr Edson.Tavares of Brazil origin was excellent and he was amazed by my Portuguese surname, Furtado ! Had to briefly explain him the multicultural and multireligious country of India .The lady next to driver Edson is Ms Yuko from Tokyo, a linguist and extensively travelled lady. |
End of a wonderful but expensive sightseeing tour of prime sites in New Zealand as also getting a glimpse of New Zealand countryside and Maori culture.Had a normal 4 hrs sleep in the hostel
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| On Rangitoto Island.Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island in the Hauraki Gulf near Auckland. The 5.5 km wide island is a symmetrical shield volcano cone capped by central scoria cones, reaching a height of 260 m(850 ft).Emerging unexpectedly from the sea some 600 years ago, it is the youngest and largest volcano of the 48 Dormant volcanoes in the Auckland volcanic field.Rangitoto means 'Bloody sky' in Maori language and is thought to refer to the serious injury of a Maori chief during a battle on the island. Roads and tracks allow visitors to walk over lava fields and through lava caves (tubes left behind by the passage of liquid lava). |
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| View of Devonport Mt Victoria Peak as seen from our Catamaran ferry The Catamaran first stops at Davenport and then the last stop is Rangitoto island . A excellent 1/2 hrs boat ride from Auckland port. |
Friday(22/3/2024) Auckland:- Walked the familiar road from my residence on Albert Street to Lower Albert Street onto Viaduct harbour to the " Explorer " office to inquire if there was last minute accommodation on the Ferry for Tiritiri Matangi and on receiving a negative answer decided to visit Rangitoto island.In " Solo Travel" as in life always have a alternative plan in case things don't go as planned.In my case it has happened on numerous occasions and till today i am still a successful "INVESTOR" and "TRAVELLER" in spite of numerous up's and down's.I am not boosting my ego but just a model that if i can do it so can you.Nothing is impossible with a little perseverance ,money and physical fitness. Booked a ticket at " Fullers " ferry service for 0930 ferry journey to Rangitoto island costing NZ $ 57.As i was very early walked the short distance to Britomart station and breakfast was at McDonald's next to Britomart Station.The Hamburger/ French fries/ coffee was filling and while having breakfast was surprised to see a " 350 cc Royal Enfield" bike parked next to the restaurant.through the restaurant transparent glass partition.
After breakfast took a photograph with the bike and would have loved riding on Auckland's MotoGp quality highways and roads.A cruise ship " Majestic Princess" of " Princess cruise lines" was berthed at Queen Wharf next to the Ferry jetty.
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| View of Rangitoto from the Ferry. Dense Pohuktuva forest, the largest in the world gives this young 600 year old Volcanic mountain its unique symmetrical cone shape. |
At 0915 hrs stood in queue for boarding the ferry to Rangitoto Island and were lectured on the process of entry into " Pest free " Rangitoto island by a Ferry staff member.Finally at 0930 hrs boarded the plush " Fullers Catamaran" and it was a pleasant 25 minutes travel to Rangitoto with a inbetween brief halt at Devonport. Rangitoto is a uninhabited dormant volcanic mountain that was formed from a Volcanic eruption only just 600 years ago.The 5.5 Km (3.4 Mi) wide island is a symmetrical shield volcano cone having a height of 260m(850ft) and is the youngest and largest of the approximately 50 volcanoes of the Auckland Volcanic field.It is densely forested with tree's and on arrival at the jetty realized that this island was excellent for trekking to the peak through forested pathways.It has the largest forest of Pohutukawa trees in the World, a indigenous tree of New Zealand.
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| Bach 36 :- "THE COLLINS BATCH" on Rangitoto Island :- A "BACH" is a "Holiday Home" and were built around the island's edge in the 1920s and 1930s. The legality of their existence was doubtful from the start and the building of further baches was banned in 1937.A few of the "BACH'S" are preserved as historic monuments and some have been refurnished by ancestors of the original owners,The "COLLINS BACH" has one of the longest histories of any Bach in Rangitoto Island .This site was approved as a camp in 1911 from where it grew into a Bungalow.Generations of the "COLLINS FAMILY" have stayed and maintained the upkeep of this Bach. |
A total of more than 200 species of tree's, flowers and various orchid's thrive on this island.Walked along the pathway around the coast and came across small historic cottages called " Bache's(Small holiday houses)" in New Zealand.
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| " KAYAKING" between the Islands and Auckland is a popular sport.A group of Kayakers kayaking from Rangitoto island. |
These Bache''s were built around the island's periphery in the 1920's and 1930's.Some " Bache's" were demolished and reclaimed by the forrest with only their nameplate and brief ownership history indicating their location.There were also a few historic Baches maintained by their present day owners and a reminder that this island was once permanently inhabited by several hundred people including children.Did some bird watching spotting numerous small ground partridges as well as a unique tiny bird that resembled a sparrow and raising its tail like a fantail dove when flying between the rocks on the coast.Spotted gulls but otherwise the entire island had a strange haunted stillness with me being the lone tourist walking the Forrest bush pathways.Most of the young tourist crowd must have trekked to the peak of Mt Rangitoto. Kayaking between nearby islands is popular in Auckland and spotted a young group on Kayak's floating next to the Jetty on their way to the Auckland coast.There is a large sea water tidal swimming pool near the entrance that was built by convict labour but as it was absolute Low Tide the pool seemed unused and empty.Boarded the 1230 hrs launch back to Auckland harbour.These Catamaran ferries have a maximum speed of 50 knots but on short journeys do a maximum of 12 knots .
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| If a connoisseur of sea food dining then don't leave Auckland without tasting the signature " FISH'N'CHIPS" cuisine of New Zealand at the landmark Auckland Fish Market in Wynyard Enclave. |
There are no crows in New zealand but spotted the Rook bird that eerily resembles a Crow.Walked across familiar Viaduct harbour onto Wynyard Enclave and into Auckland Fish Market which had a crowd of diners.Lunch was " Fish and chips" costing $ 19 which was excellent and fresh but meant for 2 people.Excellent ambiance at the outdoor restaurant with a giant screen showing a Rugby Match, the National game of New Zealand.Consumed half of my fish and chips and packaged the leftover and had a long walk back to the Backpackers .Stored my fish food in the giant fridge in the pantry/ mess room and relaxed on the Internet .Later in the evening walked along Wellesley Street to the Civic theatre and to my utter astonishment found two musicians performing on the pavement akin to normal " Busker " musicians.One musician was playing a large organ while the younger musician was singing a foreign language song.In fact I.mistook them to be Busker's and was searching for the " Donation Box" but not finding one and on inquiry was told that this was a " Free Music Concert" by these two Samoan musicians on the occasion of the " Auckland Concert Festival-2024 " that was in progress since Thursday 7th March with Sunday 24th March being the last day of the festival.Also came across a group of musicians singing ," Hare Krishna" Bhajans and heading towards Queen Street.New Zealand is a diverse country having citizens from various different countries of origin,religion's and cultures.
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| "Auckland Concert Festival" :- Free Musical performance on footpath on Queen Road next to "Civic Theatre". |
After the Samoan musician's finished their act walked further down to Queen Street on the opposite side of the road and came across another group of musicians singing gospel theme songs.Later walked towards the Town Hall and came across advertisement for the " Cabaret Show" by a group of German artists, all a part of the Auckland music festival.Next boarded the red coloured City bus and headed to Karangahape street.Today was " Friday Night", a big week- end partying night in European country's and also Oceania country New Zealand. Entered a pub managed by a Punjabi Indian origin young man and he told me partying began after 2200 hrs upto 0200 hrs and Karangahape was no more the notorious " Red Light" enclave for which it was once Infamous/famous .Even the " Vegas Girls" hoarding was now akin to a "Picasso Artwork" outdated but art of a bygone era with the place now being a normal pub and the " Strip Tease club" no more in business.Out of curiosity entered " Vegas Girls" which was empty and resembled the sitting room of a Billionaire's residence, complete with exotic art handicrafts and a Grand piano.The bar man told me it was a normal pub and what was once " Vegas Girls" strip club on the first floor was now rented for functions.
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| Aoetea Square :- Situated next to Queen Street is a large public paved area used for open-air concerts ,gatherings,market and political rally's. A temporary stage was erected to stage "CLUB CABARET" play. This play was part of the "Auckland Concert Festival-2024".A adults show with German performers that contained semi nudity. |
Along the same street there was a plush shop selling hemp with advertisement for legalizing Cannabis consumption."Vaping" and "Smoking" is a fad among the present generation in New Zealand and as a silent observer came across many shops advertising Vaping.Every generation has its own "Poison Vices" Ahoy !Change is permanent in life and lifestyle.Walking further along Karangahape street came across " St Kevin's Arcade",which was a building built in 1924 and having various shops and establishments within the building complex.On the ground floor of the building was the plush restaurant " Lowbrow" which was crowded with Friday night guests.Stairs from " Lowbrow" restaurant led down a incline to the base of the building which had a lot of graffiti art work on its walls.Read about the Graffiti artwork of Karangahape street buildings and here I got a glimpse of the same in " St Kevin's Arcade". Even the small building next to the arcade had a complete graffiti painting on its front facade and boundary walls.
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| Karangahape Road is famous for its " Graffiti artwork ".Here on the walls of " St Kevin's Arcade " on the stairs leading from " Lowbrow " restaurant to " Myers Park " is this Graffiti artwork ". |
Karangahape street is situated on top of a hill and from " St Kevin's Arcade" the downhill walk along steps leads to " Myers Park" and finally onto Queen Street.Finally decided to head back home and boarded the red city bus back to Queen Street.On my way up Victoria West Street entered " Countdown Supermarket " and purchased " Corona Extra beer" and walked into the home away from home .backpacker pantry/ mess.Thanks to a Brazilian guest got my left- over " Fish/ Chips" kept in the fridge heated in the microwave oven and it was a excellent snack along with the beer.Later visited " SKY Casino" that was packed with " Friday Night" weekend gamblers/ speculators and among them many were definitely of Indian origin.Now hope after the next elections " SPORTS BETTING" is legalized in India as Indian origin people and Indian's in India love gambolling/ Speculation.
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| Last dinner in Auckland of the New Zealand solo travel in the one and only palatial "SKY CITY CASINO". |
Anything in excess is bad for health including common overeating of food and hence "LEGAL SPORTS BETTING" should not be targeted as a destructive vice by the moral brigade while at the same time looking the other side pretending "ILLEGAL SPORTS BETTING" doesn't exist !
Headed towards the Poker gaming table's section which had Rugby being shown on the giant television screen .Watched " Live" Trotter as well as well as Flat racing being shown on the small T.V screen along with " Greyhound Racing". As mentioned before there were no bookies and all betting was through " TAB(Tote)"machines.After watching the 10 th race at " Alexandra Racepark " headed towards the crowded restaurant section of " Sky City Casino" and my.last dinner in Auckland was " Lamb curry/ Rice/ papad" cooked Indian style with the restaurant owners definitely being of Indian origin..The young cashier lady was a Indian student working part time at the casino to pay her rent. I just casually quickly conversed with her asking her nationality as also mentioning the high cost of living in Auckland to which she replied in the affirmative.The food costing NZ $ 19 was average and definitely not upto authentic Indian cuisine but then my expectations could be high as at home in Mumbai food consumption is treated as a fine art. Ahoy !. After dinner walked the short distance back to home away from home " Surf ' N' Snow".Had my normal 3-4 hrs sleep.
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| "FIJI AIRWAYS FJ-410" from Auckland to Nadi. At Nadi Airport in Republic of Fiji. |
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| Landmark " Civic Theatre " on corner of Wellesley Street West and Queen Street. Opened in 1929 and renovated in 1998- 99 is one of one last remaining " Atmospheric Theatre " in the Southern Hemisphere. |
Saturday ( 23/3/2024) Departure Auckland and Arrival Nadi :- Packed my trolley bag with great difficulty and later rang up Mr Brian. Lowe informing him of my departure from Auckland.Bizzarely it was drizzling akin to my arrival in Auckland.Can lightning strike twice ! Checked out of my home away from home " Surf ' N' Snow" and walked towards Wellesley West street.On the way entered a Chinese origin restaurant and breakfast was " Croissant egg/ ham" along with coffee.Luckily the mild drizzle had subsided and it was a very pleasant morning.At 0930 hrs boarded the now very familiar "No 30" bus whose driver was a Sikh and began the long road journey to One Hunga.It began drizzling heavily and luckily i was in the bus.Finally after an hour reached One Hunga bus depot.
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| "AUCKLAND TOWN HALL" on Queen Street.Built in 1909 is used for administrative functions and concerts. Auckland Philharmonia performs in Great Hall of Town Hall ,its home. The Town Hall organ dating from 1911 is the largest musical instrument in the Country. |
At One Hunga boarded the "No 38" bus and continued the onward journey to Auckland International Airport in drizzling rain.Had a conversation with a young local Maori musician who was travelling in the bus with a guitar and was surprised of his knowledge of India and Mumbai.Finally after one and half hours total bus travel bus travel was at Auckland International Airport. Was early and stood in the check-in queue with the check- in counter opening at 1230 hrs.After check-in and depositing my trolley bag in the luggage rack next destination was immigration clearance which had a long queue that fortunately moved quickly.After immigration was the " Security Check" and after passing through all scanners a security personnel took me aside for a " Bomb check" of my hand luggage.Unbelievable but true.First time in my lifetime of travel had undergone such personal security checks at a airport.After "Security Clearance" as usual walked into the duty free shopping area that was excellent unlike Auckland's drab passenger arrival section.As usual inquired the costliest liquor in the duty free liquor shop and was shown " The Balvenie " whisky bottle costing NZ $ 59,000 only.Next costliest was the " Royal Salute" prized at NZ $ 38,000 only.Made my way to " Gate No 9" for boarding which was a long over 1 Km walk and later after some relaxation at boarding time boarded the plane and made my way to seat " 58 D".Take off was 45 minutes late at 1615 hrs,typical Fijian Standard delay Time , a joke among Fijians.
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| Travelling like a local to Auckland International Airport. Boarded the " No 38 " bus at One Hunga, the last bus of my stay in Auckland. Thanks to Auckland bus driver's that I could travel to distant sightseeing locales in Auckland. |
Excellent flight with a meal and beer.Watched Agatha Christie movies " A Haunting in Venice" and a quarter of the movie of " Death on the Nile" as the plane landed in Fiji at 1810 hrs, again 40 minutes late. The Republic of Fiji in the South Pacific Ocean is an archipelago of more than 30 islands and about 500 islets of which 110 islands are permanantly inhabited.Fiji lies in the south Pacific Ocean, to the northeast of New Zealand and southwest of Hawaii and does not share land borders with any other country having an area of about 18,274 Sq Km .Viti Levu is the largest island in Fiji, accounting for over half of the country’s total land area and is characterized by a rugged terrain, with a central mountain range that includes the country’s highest peak, Mount Tomanivi, standing at 1,324 m (4,344 ft).To the north of Viti Levu Island lies Fiji’s second-largest island, Vanua Levu. This island also has a rugged interior, though less mountainous compared to Viti Levu.Fiji has three official languages under the 1997 constitution ,English, Fijian (iTaukei) and Fiji Hindi. Fiji is a center for Pacific tourism, and Nadi International Airport is by far the busiest airport in a Pacific island country.Immigration check was a nightmare as again I was singled out among all the arrivals and told to wait in the "Waiting Room".All the passengers made their exit peacefully and after about 15 minutes I was called into a private room where a officer whom I presume was the head of the immigration department asked me a few questions and then finally issued my visa and let me go.
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| At 1900 hrs in the arrival lounge of Nadi Airport. |
Country No 97 Fiji where normally Visa's are immediately issued for Indian tourists made me wonder the reasons for my sudden abrupt notoriety with Customs and immigration department in New Zealand and now in Fiji.Bizarre but true.I have never experienced such problems in my entire travel history before, barring the once in a Blue moon " Abu Dhabi Visa Fiasco" of 2023.Collected my trolley bag from the luggage conveyor belt, the last bag to be picked up.The weather between cold and cool Auckland and hot and humid Nadi in Fiji was akin to a Day and Night difference, amazing.Felt i was back in some Indian city.Made my way past the customs and at the information centre inquired the location and taxi charges to "The Ideal Bed and Breakfast" backpackers at Wailoaloa beach .Hired a taxi and on payment of Fijian $ 20 was driven to my accomodation.On the way had a conversation with the Indian origin Fijian driver who spoke fluent Hindi ,surprising, as he was a 4th generation Fiji citizen of North Indian origin.Hindi is taught in schools in Fiji.On arrival in the dark of the night at " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast" was greeted by the receptionist Mrs Sala.Kokaivanu who allotted me my dormitory room having four beds ,spacious akin to a flat and having A/C which was very much needed in the hot humid weather of Nadi.Nadi is used as a transit stop for most tourists wanting to discover the exotic islands of Fiji. My room-mate was a young German Mr Martin .Muller who worked and travelled and was heading to Australia the next day.Did get my 3-4 hrs sleep after a nice hot Jacuzzi style bathe.If Auckland's "Surf 'N' Snow " backpackers dormitory was akin to boarding school/Chawl style lifestyle , then staying in "The Ideal Bed and Breakfast" was akin to living on a massive private Bungalow estate. That's travel and living as a nomadic backpacker where "CHANGE IS PERMANANT".
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| First meal in Republic of Fiji. Early morning breakfast at " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast ", my home away from home in Nadi. A palatial farm house style backpackers residence. |
Sunday(24/3/20240 Nadi in Fiji :- As usual after a bathe walked around the vicinity of Wailoaloa which had a few plush hotels with exotic sea faring names like " SAILORS BEACH ", "SMUGGLERS COVE" and the "RAMADA SUITES BY WYNDHAM ". "HOTEL BULABARD" was not sea facing and spoke with two taxi drivers whose taxi's were parked outside "Ramada Suites by Wyndham" which was the main taxi parking lane and got a brief insight of my location in Nadi.Only Wailoaloa beach was walking distance while for every other sightseeing travel or visit to Nadi city would have to use the "Taxi" or the local bus that had a erratic hourly frequency.A total contrast from "Surf 'N' Snow" in prime downtown Auckland in New Zealand where every important sightseeing locale was within walking distance of the Backpacker hostel.Walked across the "Ramada Hotel" passageway onto Wailoaloa beach with the sea being at peak high tide.Brownish murky sea beach but not dirty with sea waste.It had rained in the night and again early morning it was cloudy and raining.Nadi has a mosquito menace and sitting on the beautiful outdoor lawns of " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast" means also inviting mosquitoes to bite you for their own meals.Breakfast was at 0715 hrs, excellent Western style breakfast with coffee.
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| Wailoaloa Beach. Plush sea facing hotels.Dark murky sand and water although the beach is clean. Good for sea dip's. |
This guesthouse is a family run business by Fijian native diaspora and hence family members of the owner help in running the business.Contacted guesthouse staff Mr Inoke.Alex (Knox ) and Mr Ru regarding package tours.Later inquired directions to Mount St Mary's Catholic Church in Nadi to attend the " Palm Sunday Mass" as it had stopped raining .On Sunday entire Nadi comes to a standstill and the public buses don't ply the roads for the entire day.Decided my own mode of " Penance" by walking 3.5 Km from " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast " backpacker to Mount St Mary's Catholic church.At a much younger age such city sight seeing walks were common, most importantly in 2010 when I walked the length and breadth of Central London. Decided to test my fitness and also as a form of Penance began my long lonely walk towards Martintar enclave of Nadi.On the way inquired directions with the rare Fijian walking on the road as akin to Auckland almost everyone uses private transport.Finally at 1015 hrs reached Mount St Mary's Catholic Church where the " Palm Sunday Mass" was in progress.Church was full with worshippers and didn't get seating space and was standing for almost over half of the Mass service.
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| At " Mount St Mary's Catholic Church " in Martintar locality of Nadi. After years did a marathon walk totalling 7 Km from Wailoaloa Beach to the church and back to Wailoaloa after the "Palm Sunday Mass". |
Later managed to get a seat and was happy to see the church full with the congregation unlike most European city's where a few churches are being partly converted to museum's due to lack of a congregation.The Liturgical Mass finally got over at 1145 hrs and again decided to walk back the 3.5 Km to Wailoaloa rather than catch a taxi as I wanted to reduce my belly fat.In my younger years while on " Solo Travel's" would walk to save transport fare as travel in First World Country's was and is still very expensive in comparison to the cost of living in Developing countries. Today I was walking to stay and be fit and not to save rupees. Ahoy ! Life and living is bizarre and humorous at times.TRAVEL REQUIRES EXCELLENT PHYSICAL FITNESS.So far so good as far as I am concerned.Was feeling thirsty and to my good fortune spotted a store " Chaalisa Shopping Centre" selling all types of drinks and decided to quench my thirst with a "Fiji Gold " beer brand costing 6.5 FJ $ .Cost of living in Fiji is definitely much cheaper than New Zealand but costlier than India.The owner of the shop Mr Binesh.Kumar was a 3rd generation Indian descent Fijian whose ancestors initially hailed from Bihar in India.Had a very educative talk with him regarding life in Fiji.
He told me that Martintar locality of Nadi was the hippest place for nightlife having a few bars and night clubs.
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| "JET POINT SUPERCENTER" on Queens Road in Martintar locality of Nadi. Numerous shops and restaurants catering to Indian food. "Life Cinema" multiplex which screens Hindi and English films is located inside this shopping and entertainment supercenter. |
He was also bottle feeding a stray kitten whose mother was killed by a stray dog.It was a real long long walk back to home away from home " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast ".On the way back entered the large " Jet Point " Supermarket and purchased some chips.It was a hot humid afternoon and could literally feel my belly fat reducing ! Came across a coconut seller selling coconuts to people stopping alongside in their cars.Purchased a coconut costing FJ$3 which was sweet and had a thick kernel.Finally by the time I reached " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast " I presume at least 50% of my " Belly Fat" melted after the completion of the total 7 Km walk.I normally swim 1 Km daily in the swimming pool in Mumbai as also cycle 3Km daily but haven't walked 7 Kms since ages.
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| The vicinity of Wailoaloa Beach locality in Nadi. Plush hotels and my residence "The Ideal Bed and Breakfast" is just 50 meters from this road ,away from the sea beach. |
On arrival at " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast " Mr Inoke.Alex ( Knox ) surprised me by saying on Sunday's they offered guests a " Free Lunch".Excellent large fried pieces of Marlin fish with Boiled Cassava ,lime,chillies and coconut juice akin to curd.Excellent and for the first time in my life tasted " Marlin Fish", a big game fish that is a prize catch for millionaire hobby angler's who normally hire a private boat for " Marlin Fishing". Ahoy ! Thanks to the excellent A/C relaxed on the Internet in the comfort of the large spacious hostel room.Rang up Mr Gopal.Jadhav ,a Indian citizen employed and living in Fiji for over 2 decades whom i got acquainted on "WhatsApp" through Mazdock Mariner colleague Mr Pramod.Pendse in Mumbai informing him i had landed in Nadi in Fiji .
In Mumbai had consulted Mr Gopal.Jadhav regarding "Visa on Arrival" formalities to Fiji Islands and thanked him for his advice.
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| " Nala" ,the huge fierce looking pet of " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast " Backpackers. Very docile mix- breed bitch but I shudder thinking of the " Bite force" of this normally docile looking massive dog. |
Later Mr Inoke.Alex informed me that he had done the booking of the " WHALE'S TALE" Island cruising that cost FJ$ 229.Went to "Singapore Exchange,Western Union " , money exchange shop opposite "Ramada Hotel" and got US $ exchanged @ 1U.S$ = FJ $ 2.34." The Ideal Bed and Breakfast" backpackers was established recently in June 2023 and occupies a huge tract of land that is not beachfacing and in the evening went to observe sunset from the first floor of the next bungalow building of this resort that also houses tourists.Came across a beautiful cat and after leaving Auckland for the first time saw stray cat's and dogs in Nadi.After watching Sunset headed to the beach that has a string of plush hotels facing the beach front.The twilight setting was amazing with dark clouds above. It later rained heavily at 1915 hrs for a short span of time and was lucky to be in the safety of my dormitory with me being the lone guest.Seems just a week ago there was heavy cyclonic rainfall and flooding in parts of Nadi.March is the " WET SEASON" in Fiji and hence daily rainfall in mornings and evenings and it's also slack tourist season.January to March is considered the wettest rainfall period of Fiji.Luckily so far for me these downpours were heavy but brief and not continuous.
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| A cruise to "SCHOONER ISLAND" in the Pacific Ocean on "WHALE'S TALE".The "Whale's Tale" was built at the shipyard of Charles Whippy & Co in Suva in Fiji Islands at a cost of one million dollars. She is a 100 feet long schooner having a beam of 20ft 4 inches and weighing 100 tonnes with two sail masts and a motorized "Turbocharged Caterpillar Engine".Here she is in anchorage off the tiny uninhabited "Schooner Island". |
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| At Denarau Port awaiting to board " Whale's Tale " schooner. |
Tuesday(25/3/2024) Nadi ."WHALE'S TALE" CRUISE TO SCHOONER ISLAND FROM DENARAU :- As usual a brief heavy downpour of rain early in the morning.Caretaker/ Manager Mrs Emmaline( Emma).Wye who was the sister of " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast " owner was always around and very helpful in offering us Fijian cuisine.Breakfast at 0700 hrs was omelette with a Fijian speciality bread called " Lolo_Bun" dipped in coconut milk.Bright Sunshine at 0800 hrs which is typical Fiji good weather in March.
Pick up time was 0830 hrs and at at 0840 hrs a taxi arrived at "The Ideal Bed and Breakfast" to pick me up for the " WHALES TALE TOUR" schooner cruise.Another Caucasian tourist was also in the taxi and it was a pleasant early morning 5 Km drive to Denarau Island resort. During the drive got a glimpse of the villages of Nadi and came across a road named "Bangladesh Road" ,surprised of the connection between Bangladesh and distant Fiji.On arriving at the Port walked in to the " Whale's Tale" booking counter and paid the confirmed deposit and collected my ticket.Weather was fluctuating between bright sunshine and cloudy overcast sky and thankfully no rain.At 0945 we tourists finally boarded the " WHALE'S TALE " with me being the only Asian foreign tourists with almost all the tourists being Caucasians from U.S.A, Australia and New Zealand.
The "Whale's Tale" was built at the shipyard of Charles Whippy & Co in Suva in Fiji Islands at a cost of one million dollars. She is a 100 feet long schooner having a beam of 20ft 4 inches and weighing 100 tonnes with two sail masts and a motorized "Turbocharged Caterpillar Engine".As the boat set sail with its motor engine we were offered a self- service breakfast of fruits and a glass of champagne. Coffee , cold drinks and champagne was no limit along with snacks.we were also briefly explained the safety equipment on board the ship and method of using the same.The " Whales Tale" schooner route is along a few of the Mamanuca Archipelago group of Island's and one of the ship's crew members explained us the names of the distant island's and with my binoculars spotted the gleaming white sand as we passed a few of these islands.One of the crew members Mr Bai had cast a fishing line from the poop deck of the vessel hoping to catch some fish which he usually does.There was WiFi on board and for the first time in my life having worked for 23 years Onn/ Off on ship's used the shipboard Internet.During my sailing career usage of Internet was non- existent and later in early 21st century just a few elite shipping companies had WiFi facilities on board their Vessels for usage by ship's crew.
At the foredeck of the Schooner three of the ship's crew member's performed the role of musicians singing Fijian and English songs while playing guitar instruments.Weather was excellent with bright Sunshine .Finally at 1140 hrs we laid anchor at a distance of approximately 200 meters from " SCHOONER ISLAND ".To the opposite side of " Schooner Island" is a identical uninhabited " Tivua island " which was used by another cruise company " Captain Cook Cruises" for single day tourism packages akin to ours.We finally went ashore in two batches by the small mechanized boat that was attached to our vessel and towed along to finally be released at anchorage and used as the vehicle for setting foot on the island.I have visited uninhabited island's in Andamans and Nicobar as well as Lakshadweep Island's in India but " Schooner Island" of the Mamanuca Archipelago group of Island's in the Pacific Ocean was unique with its sparkling white sand and seemed like a small artificial film set .The Mamanuca Archipelago consists of 20 islands of which 7 islands get submerged by the Pacific Ocean during High Tide.Since 2016 " Survivor " television series has been filmed on these Island's and the English Film " Castaway" starring actor Tom.Hanks was filmed on Monuriki Island of the Mamanuca Archipelago.
After landing on the tiny island we all tourists assembled in the small dining hall where the " KAVA" initiation ritual was conducted with one of the tourists playing the role of a village chief.A typical tourist ceremony which explained the basic conduction of a normal "Village Kava Ceremony".After tasting the Kava headed to the snorkelling gear section where those wanting to snorkel were given snorkel equipment.Those who didn't want to Snorkel had other choices like a glass bottom boat ride across the corals or Kayaking.There was also a small open space allotted for "Beach Volleyball".We finally entered the sea with our Snorkel guide and while putting on my flippers my Artificial ring purchased from Tbilisi in Georgia slipped from my finger into the Pacific Ocean.I realized it too late and although of no commercial value the ring was a fashion statement .This was the second ring that slipped out of my finger into the sea during "Extreme adventure sports" with the first instance being in January 2020 in Van Vieng in Laos. Ziplining across the Nam Song river in Van Vieng jumped mid-stream into the river and the water impact caused my expensive brass ring to slip off my finger into the river.
Snorkelling in the sea spotted small fish species with maximum size being the "Parrot Fish". Didn't come across large Groupers but spotted excellent variety of " LIVE CORALS" and bright blue coloured " STAR FISH".On arrival back to the tiny piece of land " Schooner Island " lunch at 1215 hrs was buffet style with unlimited drinks.For me it was " Fuji Bitter beer" as a thirst quencher with lunch.After lunch did our next round of Snorkelling on the other side of the Island.We snorkelled for almost half an hour and was surprised that I could keep up with my young Caucasian fellow snorkelers who were in the prime of their youth and from Country's where water sports is a common way of relaxation and competition and not a luxury.
Snorkelling and Scuba Diving has no " Retirement" age limit unlike other sports as long as a person is physically fit.After snorkelling was back on the miniature island and watched some volleyball being played as also a tourist Kayaking the circumference of tiny " Schooner Island" .Most importantly weather was in our favour and it was bright and Sunny.Finally at 1500 hrs we boarded our small boat at the beach and headed to our mother boat " Whale's Tale" for our return journey back to Port Denarau. On the return journey the Sails of the vessel were raised and she looked awesome with the sails.The Sky was getting darker and rain seemed nearby on the horizon.The musician crew entertained us with their songs and I happened to pick up conversation with a young Black American tourist Mr Reggie.Green ,a pastor by profession.Finally it started raining and we reached Port Denarau in the midst of heavy rainfall.Got wet running from the wharf to the main port terminal of Denarau and met our taxi driver Mr Faisal.Finally my co- traveller tourist also arrived and we both were driven to our respective accommodations.On arrival realized I had forgotten my towel and swimming costume on " Schooner Island".
Dementia still hopefully seems a long way off but since decades I have this habit of being absentminded and as a result lost a few of my possessions, most notably sunglasses and umbrella's. It rained the entire evening and night.
Tuesday(26/3/2024) Nadi :- A young German lady from Cologne Anna was staying in the separate single room double bed next to my 4 bed dormitory.She left for Ireland today on a ship cruise voyage of 8 days and so I was all alone in my palatial dormitory residence in " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast ". This is a very rare occurrence in dormitory accommodation and although having numerous guests this was a real huge sprawling Backpackers estate which in peak tourist season would definitely be house-full. There was a " Flood Warning" for Nadi due to the heavy consistent downpour yesterday. At the breakfast table got to meet the crowd,all young Caucasians and a few Mongoloid race tourists from various Country's with me being the lone Sub- Continent Asian.
Tasted " Fiji Porridge" for breakfast which was oats with dry fruits served in coconut milk.Decided to now get out of the plush 5-star style lifestyle as a tourist and discover Nadi through the lifestyle of the average common Fijian taking my chance of there being no rainfall during the day.Local bus transport from Wailoaloa beach to Nadi City is erratic and after inquiry at " Smugglers Cove" hotel was at the right place at the right time at 0845 hrs to board the rare common bus to Nadi city with the bus fare being only 1.5 $ in comparison to 10 $ by a taxi.Yes I was now living the life of the common Fijian.It was a long drive through the villages of Nadi with the village roads being in horrible pot- holed conditions due to the rains.Finally reached Nadi city and again was in the nick of time to board the connecting bus to Lautoka, the second largest city in Fiji after the Capital Suva.
The bus ticket cost Fj 3.5 $ and it was a long 27 Kms drive to Lautoka and enroute passed alongside Nadi Airport and the green forested Countryside of Fiji with its massive towering mountains in the distance. Approaching Lautoka came across factories and finally the Lautoka harbour and later at 1115 hrs into Lautoka Bus terminus.Lautoka is on the West coast of the island of Viti Levu in the Ba province of the Western division and is called the "Sugar City" of Fiji Islands because of its sugarcane cultivation areas.The main Lautoka Sugar mill was founded in 1903 and is the city's biggest employer.A bustling city with the market just next to the bus terminal. As usual first entered the market situated next to the public bus terminal which was very large and this particular section of the market sold only vegetables and fruits.A few of the vegetables and fruits were unidentifiable by me, totally different from my home market in Mumbai.Enquired about the " Fish section" and was surprised to see a tiny corner of the giant vegetable market being allocated for selling of fish .
As a regular purchaser of fish in.my home city of Mumbai was seeing for the first time fish not being sold by weight or individual specimen's but in a cluster strung to a coconut tree leaf.The prices ranged from $25 to $35 depending on the edible fish species.From the market strolled onto the main street and was amazed to find myself in the midst of businesses owned by Indian origin Figians.If blindfolded and left in Lautoka would have mistaken it to be some part of India, such is the dominance of Indian origin business in Lautoka.The Indian origin Fijians speak a different dialect of Hindi in comparison to Hindi spoken in India.
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| Crew member Mr Bai fishing for mackerel from the poop deck of "Whale's Tale" as she sets sail on the Pacific Ocean from Denarau Port.The Dingy boat being towed by the schooner will be used by us for landing ashore on "SCHOONER ISLAND" once we reach our destination and anchor about 200 meters from the island. |
The "Whale's Tale" was built at the shipyard of Charles Whippy & Co in Suva in Fiji Islands at a cost of one million dollars. She is a 100 feet long schooner having a beam of 20ft 4 inches and weighing 100 tonnes with two sail masts and a motorized "Turbocharged Caterpillar Engine".As the boat set sail with its motor engine we were offered a self- service breakfast of fruits and a glass of champagne. Coffee , cold drinks and champagne was no limit along with snacks.we were also briefly explained the safety equipment on board the ship and method of using the same.The " Whales Tale" schooner route is along a few of the Mamanuca Archipelago group of Island's and one of the ship's crew members explained us the names of the distant island's and with my binoculars spotted the gleaming white sand as we passed a few of these islands.One of the crew members Mr Bai had cast a fishing line from the poop deck of the vessel hoping to catch some fish which he usually does.There was WiFi on board and for the first time in my life having worked for 23 years Onn/ Off on ship's used the shipboard Internet.During my sailing career usage of Internet was non- existent and later in early 21st century just a few elite shipping companies had WiFi facilities on board their Vessels for usage by ship's crew.
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| Savoring champagne on the Top deck of " Whale's Tale " while cruising on the Pacific Ocean with sighting of Mamanuca Archipelago group of Island's. Weather was in our favour as there was no rain and it was a bright Sunny day and a very calm Pacific Ocean. Ahoy ! |
At the foredeck of the Schooner three of the ship's crew member's performed the role of musicians singing Fijian and English songs while playing guitar instruments.Weather was excellent with bright Sunshine .Finally at 1140 hrs we laid anchor at a distance of approximately 200 meters from " SCHOONER ISLAND ".To the opposite side of " Schooner Island" is a identical uninhabited " Tivua island " which was used by another cruise company " Captain Cook Cruises" for single day tourism packages akin to ours.We finally went ashore in two batches by the small mechanized boat that was attached to our vessel and towed along to finally be released at anchorage and used as the vehicle for setting foot on the island.I have visited uninhabited island's in Andamans and Nicobar as well as Lakshadweep Island's in India but " Schooner Island" of the Mamanuca Archipelago group of Island's in the Pacific Ocean was unique with its sparkling white sand and seemed like a small artificial film set .The Mamanuca Archipelago consists of 20 islands of which 7 islands get submerged by the Pacific Ocean during High Tide.Since 2016 " Survivor " television series has been filmed on these Island's and the English Film " Castaway" starring actor Tom.Hanks was filmed on Monuriki Island of the Mamanuca Archipelago.
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| Lunch after a first session of SNORKELLING on East coast of tiny minuscule Schooner Island Have never before in my life stepped onto such a tiny authentic natural island.Truth is stranger than fiction. |
After landing on the tiny island we all tourists assembled in the small dining hall where the " KAVA" initiation ritual was conducted with one of the tourists playing the role of a village chief.A typical tourist ceremony which explained the basic conduction of a normal "Village Kava Ceremony".After tasting the Kava headed to the snorkelling gear section where those wanting to snorkel were given snorkel equipment.Those who didn't want to Snorkel had other choices like a glass bottom boat ride across the corals or Kayaking.There was also a small open space allotted for "Beach Volleyball".We finally entered the sea with our Snorkel guide and while putting on my flippers my Artificial ring purchased from Tbilisi in Georgia slipped from my finger into the Pacific Ocean.I realized it too late and although of no commercial value the ring was a fashion statement .This was the second ring that slipped out of my finger into the sea during "Extreme adventure sports" with the first instance being in January 2020 in Van Vieng in Laos. Ziplining across the Nam Song river in Van Vieng jumped mid-stream into the river and the water impact caused my expensive brass ring to slip off my finger into the river.
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| " BEACH VOLLEYBALL " on a part of tiny SCHOONER ISLAND in the Pacific Ocean. |
Snorkelling in the sea spotted small fish species with maximum size being the "Parrot Fish". Didn't come across large Groupers but spotted excellent variety of " LIVE CORALS" and bright blue coloured " STAR FISH".On arrival back to the tiny piece of land " Schooner Island " lunch at 1215 hrs was buffet style with unlimited drinks.For me it was " Fuji Bitter beer" as a thirst quencher with lunch.After lunch did our next round of Snorkelling on the other side of the Island.We snorkelled for almost half an hour and was surprised that I could keep up with my young Caucasian fellow snorkelers who were in the prime of their youth and from Country's where water sports is a common way of relaxation and competition and not a luxury.
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| End of day's Snorkelling, Canoeing Beach basketball , lunch and simply loafing on " SCHOONER ISLAND " Boarding our dingy boat to sail across and board " Whale's Tale " cruise schooner. |
Snorkelling and Scuba Diving has no " Retirement" age limit unlike other sports as long as a person is physically fit.After snorkelling was back on the miniature island and watched some volleyball being played as also a tourist Kayaking the circumference of tiny " Schooner Island" .Most importantly weather was in our favour and it was bright and Sunny.Finally at 1500 hrs we boarded our small boat at the beach and headed to our mother boat " Whale's Tale" for our return journey back to Port Denarau. On the return journey the Sails of the vessel were raised and she looked awesome with the sails.The Sky was getting darker and rain seemed nearby on the horizon.The musician crew entertained us with their songs and I happened to pick up conversation with a young Black American tourist Mr Reggie.Green ,a pastor by profession.Finally it started raining and we reached Port Denarau in the midst of heavy rainfall.Got wet running from the wharf to the main port terminal of Denarau and met our taxi driver Mr Faisal.Finally my co- traveller tourist also arrived and we both were driven to our respective accommodations.On arrival realized I had forgotten my towel and swimming costume on " Schooner Island".
Dementia still hopefully seems a long way off but since decades I have this habit of being absentminded and as a result lost a few of my possessions, most notably sunglasses and umbrella's. It rained the entire evening and night.
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| Lautoka is 27 Km from Nadi on the West coast of the island of Viti Levu in the Ba province of the Western division and is the second largest city in the Republic of Fiji. This city is called the "Sugar City" of Fiji Islands because of its sugarcane cultivation areas.The main Lautoka Sugar mill was founded in 1903 and is the city's biggest employer.A bustling city with the market just next to the bus terminal |
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| Technicolour " Village 4" Multiplex theatre building in Lautoka City.Hindi films are popular along with English Films. |
Tuesday(26/3/2024) Nadi :- A young German lady from Cologne Anna was staying in the separate single room double bed next to my 4 bed dormitory.She left for Ireland today on a ship cruise voyage of 8 days and so I was all alone in my palatial dormitory residence in " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast ". This is a very rare occurrence in dormitory accommodation and although having numerous guests this was a real huge sprawling Backpackers estate which in peak tourist season would definitely be house-full. There was a " Flood Warning" for Nadi due to the heavy consistent downpour yesterday. At the breakfast table got to meet the crowd,all young Caucasians and a few Mongoloid race tourists from various Country's with me being the lone Sub- Continent Asian.
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| Lautoka Jama Masjid is a 2 storey building that has imposing arched doors and white marble structure. |
Tasted " Fiji Porridge" for breakfast which was oats with dry fruits served in coconut milk.Decided to now get out of the plush 5-star style lifestyle as a tourist and discover Nadi through the lifestyle of the average common Fijian taking my chance of there being no rainfall during the day.Local bus transport from Wailoaloa beach to Nadi City is erratic and after inquiry at " Smugglers Cove" hotel was at the right place at the right time at 0845 hrs to board the rare common bus to Nadi city with the bus fare being only 1.5 $ in comparison to 10 $ by a taxi.Yes I was now living the life of the common Fijian.It was a long drive through the villages of Nadi with the village roads being in horrible pot- holed conditions due to the rains.Finally reached Nadi city and again was in the nick of time to board the connecting bus to Lautoka, the second largest city in Fiji after the Capital Suva.
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| Lautoka vegetables and fruits market. |
The bus ticket cost Fj 3.5 $ and it was a long 27 Kms drive to Lautoka and enroute passed alongside Nadi Airport and the green forested Countryside of Fiji with its massive towering mountains in the distance. Approaching Lautoka came across factories and finally the Lautoka harbour and later at 1115 hrs into Lautoka Bus terminus.Lautoka is on the West coast of the island of Viti Levu in the Ba province of the Western division and is called the "Sugar City" of Fiji Islands because of its sugarcane cultivation areas.The main Lautoka Sugar mill was founded in 1903 and is the city's biggest employer.A bustling city with the market just next to the bus terminal. As usual first entered the market situated next to the public bus terminal which was very large and this particular section of the market sold only vegetables and fruits.A few of the vegetables and fruits were unidentifiable by me, totally different from my home market in Mumbai.Enquired about the " Fish section" and was surprised to see a tiny corner of the giant vegetable market being allocated for selling of fish .
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| Lautoka fish market. The " Fish Market" occupies a small section of the large spread out Vegetables and fruits Market.Fish is tied to a coconut leaf stem and sold as a bunch. |
As a regular purchaser of fish in.my home city of Mumbai was seeing for the first time fish not being sold by weight or individual specimen's but in a cluster strung to a coconut tree leaf.The prices ranged from $25 to $35 depending on the edible fish species.From the market strolled onto the main street and was amazed to find myself in the midst of businesses owned by Indian origin Figians.If blindfolded and left in Lautoka would have mistaken it to be some part of India, such is the dominance of Indian origin business in Lautoka.The Indian origin Fijians speak a different dialect of Hindi in comparison to Hindi spoken in India.
Saw a modern mall style building and entered the " Tappoo Life" mall that had a food plaza replicating Indian culinary cuisine complete with even the name of Indian city Mumbai.There was also a multiplex theatre having 2 viewing shows called " Life Cinema" with Hindi movies dominating the screenings.A movie ticket cost 8.5 $. Made my way out of " Tappoo Life" mall onto the street walking along the row of shops and came across the "Jama Masjid Lautoka " a magnificent mosque .Walking further from the landmark mosque came across the unique designed building " Village 4" which housed 4 multiplex theatres within its building.
Walking into the main street side shopping centre spotted a hosiery shop and decided to purchase s swimming costume, replacement for the costume I forgot on " Schooner Island".After purchasing a swim costume walked around aimlessly window shopping although bored as " Window Shopping " in Lautoka was akin to walking in a Indian city with the only difference being it cost me Rs 1,50,000 for a air ticket to Fiji via Auckland. Ahoy ! Travel educates. Entered a shop selling video's and film music owned by Indian origin Fijians and asked them regarding local Fijian cuisine on which they had a discussion in Hindi which was almost a alien language to my ears.On inquiry was told Fijian Hindi was a mix of many local dialects but that in schools children were taught the recognized version of the Hindi language as taught and spoken in India .
They told me to go to " Tappoo Life" mall for good food and decided on the same as there was no local Fijian restaurant in sight.Walked to " Tappoo Life" and lunch was " Duck curry/ rice" at " Indiana Curry Xpress" cafeteria costing FJ 20$.Excellent meal but meant for 2 people and hence got a part of the " Duck curry" parceled and carried it along with me to home away from home " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast ".On the way to the bus terminus walked through the unique vegetable market and ate a slice of pineapple costing 1$.Boarded the bus to Nadi and was now familiar with the route.Luck favoured me as the weather was excellent, sunny and cloudy at times but no rain.
At 1430 hrs reached Nadi bus stop.
The market of Nadi was a photo copy of the market in Lautoka and even the main city centre identical with numerous shops.Walked towards the main Bus stand and came across road side eateries selling Indian food.Tasted " Jalebis" which was excellent.Waiting for my bus to Wailoaloa suddenly heard the sound of Indian drums and devotional music.A young group of Fijian Hindu's were celebrating the festival of " Holi" which in India was celebrated yesterday but in Nadi it was being celebrated today.Grand celebration by a small group of Fijians .The largest Hindu temple in the Sothern Hemisphere ,the "Siva Subramanya Temple" is in Nadi.Also observed a few mosques on the bus ride from Nadi to Lautoka.Came across the Nadi Muslim college which had a large campus and also functions as a school.Accepts students from all religious communities and definitely the largest educational institution in Nadi .Finally at 1500 hrs my bus arrived and it was the journey back to Wailoaloa Beach. In the evening at approximately 1715 hrs headed to Wailoaloa Beach and just had a dip in the murky coloured but otherwise clean water.Dinner was bread with the excellent left-over " Duck curry" from " Tappoo Life" mall in Lautoka.Didn't rain the entire day or night.
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| Indian origin Fijian enterprises in Lautoka. Most big Business houses in Fiji have Indian origin names. |
Walking into the main street side shopping centre spotted a hosiery shop and decided to purchase s swimming costume, replacement for the costume I forgot on " Schooner Island".After purchasing a swim costume walked around aimlessly window shopping although bored as " Window Shopping " in Lautoka was akin to walking in a Indian city with the only difference being it cost me Rs 1,50,000 for a air ticket to Fiji via Auckland. Ahoy ! Travel educates. Entered a shop selling video's and film music owned by Indian origin Fijians and asked them regarding local Fijian cuisine on which they had a discussion in Hindi which was almost a alien language to my ears.On inquiry was told Fijian Hindi was a mix of many local dialects but that in schools children were taught the recognized version of the Hindi language as taught and spoken in India .
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| Lautoka port. |
They told me to go to " Tappoo Life" mall for good food and decided on the same as there was no local Fijian restaurant in sight.Walked to " Tappoo Life" and lunch was " Duck curry/ rice" at " Indiana Curry Xpress" cafeteria costing FJ 20$.Excellent meal but meant for 2 people and hence got a part of the " Duck curry" parceled and carried it along with me to home away from home " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast ".On the way to the bus terminus walked through the unique vegetable market and ate a slice of pineapple costing 1$.Boarded the bus to Nadi and was now familiar with the route.Luck favoured me as the weather was excellent, sunny and cloudy at times but no rain.
At 1430 hrs reached Nadi bus stop.
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| Living the life of the average common Fijian.Travelling on the local bus. |
The market of Nadi was a photo copy of the market in Lautoka and even the main city centre identical with numerous shops.Walked towards the main Bus stand and came across road side eateries selling Indian food.Tasted " Jalebis" which was excellent.Waiting for my bus to Wailoaloa suddenly heard the sound of Indian drums and devotional music.A young group of Fijian Hindu's were celebrating the festival of " Holi" which in India was celebrated yesterday but in Nadi it was being celebrated today.Grand celebration by a small group of Fijians .The largest Hindu temple in the Sothern Hemisphere ,the "Siva Subramanya Temple" is in Nadi.Also observed a few mosques on the bus ride from Nadi to Lautoka.Came across the Nadi Muslim college which had a large campus and also functions as a school.Accepts students from all religious communities and definitely the largest educational institution in Nadi .Finally at 1500 hrs my bus arrived and it was the journey back to Wailoaloa Beach. In the evening at approximately 1715 hrs headed to Wailoaloa Beach and just had a dip in the murky coloured but otherwise clean water.Dinner was bread with the excellent left-over " Duck curry" from " Tappoo Life" mall in Lautoka.Didn't rain the entire day or night.
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| Hired a taxi with Mr Sharon.Shiraz being my Driver cum guide.The Itinerary for the day was a visit to Sri Siva Subramaniya temple ,the largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere,Nadi Handicrafts village, Garden of the Sleeping giant and Sabeto mud pool and hot springs.The total charges for this private specialized tour amounted to FJ $ 205 with cost of admission tickets to the tourist sites included in this private tour. |
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| The open air " Breakfast Show" at palatial " The Ideal bed and breakfast " backpackers. Breakfast was included in the room rental and was excellent. |
Wednesday (27/3/2024)Nadi:- In the night heard a cat fight outside my dormitory bungalow." The Bed and Breakfast " is a farmhouse adjacent to the beachside of Wailoaloa Beach coast with the prime hotels occupying the beach facing land." The Ideal Bed and Breakfast" seems to be very popular with mostly young Caucasian/ Japanese backpackers/ tourists and my part of the spacious 4- bedroom dormitory residence had a seperate room with a single double bed meant for " Couples" whose entry was through our common dormitory now having just me as sole occupant.Advantage of travelling during tourist off-season. Young German backpacker lady Lia just stayed overnight in the seperate room and left early morning for " ISLAND HOPPING" across the Fiji Islands..Nadi Airport is 7.5 Km from Wailoaloa beach and hence seeing and hearing the sound of plane's taking off is another beautiful attraction from this locale.I have never lived this close to a airport during my lifetime.A amazing experience. Only nuisance is the mosquitoes in the vicinity and it's difficult to sit outside in the palatial grounds of the estate in the night due to mosquitoes. Believe it that I didn't spot a single Crow in Nadi but seems the common Mynah has replaced the Crow as the most common bird in Nadi in Fiji.
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| Sri Siva Subramaniya temple :- The original temple had been in existence for a long time.It was at the old temple building that the Then India Sanmarga Ikya Sangam (TISI Sangam) was formed in 1926. The foundation for a new temple was laid at the old site in 1976 during the Golden Jubilee celebrations by His Excellency the High Commissioner for the government of India in Fiji.The temple was built in the best traditions of ancient Dravidian Indian temple architecture as well as the principles of sacred architecture of the Vastu Vedic tradition. The consecration ceremonies of their new national temple were held on July 15, 1994.This is the largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere. Note :- Photography or Videography is strictly prohibited once you enter the temple premises. |
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| Nadi Handicrafts Market. |
After breakfast at approximately 0945 hrs Driver cum guide Mr Sharon.Shiraz.Ali came over to " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast" to pick me up for the days tour to Sri Siva Subramaniya temple, Nadi Handicrafts village, Garden of the Sleeping giant and Sabeto mud pool and hot springs.The total charges for this private specialized tour amounted to FJ $ 205 with cost of admission tickets to the tourist sites included in this private tour.Readers of my travelogues should know by now that i live in the cheapest backpacker accommodation's across the Globe which at times got upgraded during " Off- Season" travels .
The savings on accomodation is compensated in sightseeing or indulging in " Extreme Adventure Sports" which costs a fortune in some Countries.
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| ORCHID SECTION in " Garden of the Sleeping Giant ".The Garden, which contains a vast collection of magnificent Asian orchids and Cattleya hybrids was started in 1977 by the late American actor Raymond Burr, star of "Perry Mason " and "Ironside"and sits at the foothills of the Nausori Highlands. Its attractive landscaped gardens specialize in Fiji’s native plants as well as housing an impressive collection of orchids, some native. A jungle walk from this "ORCHID SECTION" takes visitors past a large lily pond and through native forest onto a steep ascent to the top of a part of the mountain range for a view of the valley below the mountain.The gardens showcase more than two thousand different kinds of orchids, covering 20 hectares.The exquisite beauty of the garden is unsurpassed by most, housing one of the world’s largest orchid collections plus beautiful cultivated greenery and enchanting lily ponds |
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| " PICNIC POINT" in " The Garden of The Sleeping Giant ". The 3 human dummies hugging the trees is a message to conserve nature and its forests. |
Have now retired from " Extreme Adventure Sports" as there is nothing left to do having been there, seen that and done that .Except for cycling daily in my home city Mumbai's road's during peak traffic hours and snorkelling in very deep waters there is nothing left to conquer in extreme sports, having done almost 99% of the same.At 0950 hrs we left the backpackers hostel and began the road travel to Nadi Town.There was a weather forecast of rain and my biggest gamble was betting against the weather forecast in undergoing this entirely outdoors sightseeing tour.No wonder my dormitory was empty as peak tourist season in Nadi and Fiji Islands begins in May after rains have subsided.Enroute we passed through narrow village roads and some shanty houses with Mr Ali warning me not to walk alone in these vicinities at night as the crime rate is high with " Drug addiction " being a cause for many petty crimes.At 1015 hrs reached Sri Shiva Subramanya temple which has a entrance ticket for tourists.Driver/ Guide Mr Ali purchased the ticket and after removing my footwear entered the precincts of the temple.Photography inside the temple was strictly prohibited and this temple is the largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere.From the temple our next stop was at the Handicraft centre of Nadi where Ali parked his car opposite the Nadi Post office building.
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| " Direction Indicators " inside " Garden of the Sleeping Giant ". |
It was a short walk from the car park to the " Handicraft Centre" which had a string of handicraft shops lined in a single row in the shade of beautiful gigantic trees.Having lost my second hand classically designed ring purchased in Tbilisi in Georgia to the Pacific Ocean on " Schooner Island" decided to replace the same with another unique art- work jewllery.Purchased a cheap " Hook Necklace" costing 5$, a Fijian handicraft and something different akin to the cheap second hand ring purchased in Tbilisi. Put the pendant around my neck and at 1100 hrs departed for " Garden of the Sleeping Giant".It was a long drive first through the main highway road which was excellent and later through the narrow village roads filled with pot holes .The large mountain named " Sleeping Giant" towers above Nadi city and the entire countryside was green due to the rains, a picturesque soothing sight to the eyes.At 1135 hrs entered the main entrance of " Garden of the Sleeping Giant",the entire mountainside being lush green with foilage.Mr Ali purchased the entrance tickets and introduced me to the guide Mr Taione,a local Fijian dressed in Fijian attire.
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| Fijian Botanist guide Mr Taione in traditional Fijian attire. Educated me on the various orchid's in " Garden of the Sleeping Giant " |
I didn't realize that a guided tour was included in the price of the ticket and mistaking Mr Taione as a private paid guide walked on the trail of the " Garden of the Sleeping Giant".First passed through a climate controlled pathway that contained tropical orchids and plants.As it had rained heavily the previous night the ground was slippery and wet in certain places.There are signboards along narrow pathways and a tourist cannot get lost inside this landscaped natural garden created on the slopes of " Sleeping Giant" mountain.It was a gradual uphill walk passing alongside narrow streams finally landing on the large ground called " picnic Spot" which had mannequins of three humans embracing priceless gigantic mahogany tree's prized for their expensive timber as a message to conserve forests and nature.The " Picnic Area" of the sprawling garden is rented for private functions.Came across a elderly American couple and struck a casual conversation while walking along the garden pathway.After passing across the gardens had to trek up the steep inclined mountainside to reach the summit called the " Look Out Point".I was definitely the oldest trekker walking up the unpaved inclined mountainside towards the peak .
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| A view of Fijian village life. Local villagers washing clothes and children playing in a stream. |
Finally on reaching the peak heaved a sigh of relief and the sight of the green forested plains below the mountainside was awesome.The descent down the mountainside was treacherous as it had loose gravel and my Adidas track shoes were not " Trek shoes" having soles with grips akin to trek shoes.Anyhow with great cautiousness and decades of trekking experience and athleticism reached safely back to the base of " Sleeping Giant".Always remember to wear proper " TREK SHOES" if on a trek on any hill or mountain.Visited the toilet and relaxed on a arm chair outside the toilet.Making my way downhill came across guide Mr Taione explaining the garden plants to a few young tourists .Joined them and did a second tour of the pathway with guided explanation from Botanist guide Mr Taione.The guided tour came to a end on the " Picnic Ground" and while the rest of the tourists headed up the mountainside to the " Look Out Point" i returned back alone with Mr Taione and got to see the costliest and most prized orchids in the " Orchid Pathway" called Cattleya orchid costing between 100- 200 FJ $ and which has a lifespan of 7-8 weeks after it blooms.After the stem is cut the orchid lives for another 3-4 weeks before it perishes.Finally arrived at the visitors lounge where all visitors are offered a cold drink after the guided tour.Came across the stray resident cats of the garden one of which was sitting like Royalty on one of the chairs as only cats can demonstrate.
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| Nadi Racecourse. Village Races are held during the dry season. |
From the " Garden of the Sleeping Giant" we drove to our final destination " Sabeto Mud Pool and Hot Springs".The drive was partly alongside a road at the periphery of " Sleeping Giant " mountain and uneven and bumpy as are all forest roads.Passed alongside the " Nadi Racecourse" where Mr Ali briefly halted so i could view the site. Horse racing is conducted as a village pastime with local horses and held rarely once or twice in a month during the dry season.Instead of a racecourse grandstand there was a restaurant on the top of a small hill from where spectators could watch the horse racing conducted below this hill on lower ground.A employee of the restaurant Mr Ajmeer gave me a brief description of the conduction of these rudimentary horse races in Nadi.From the racecourse grounds at 1330 hrs we finally reached the parking lot of " Sabeto mud pool and hot water springs".After all my tour research was surprised to see a very non descript piece of land being one of the main tourist attractions in Nadi and the Fiji Islands.The entire enterprise is run and managed by a local Fijian family.Mr Ali purchased the entrance ticket and we first had lunch which was authentic " Fiji Chicken curry/ chapathi" which unlike indian curry didn't have any spices and tasted more like soup.
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| SABETO MUD POOL AND HOT SPRING :- .The therapeutic mud pool of Sabeto is the ideal remedy for self-cleansing or naturally beautifying yourself. The sulphur in the hot springs is believed by locals to have healing properties and is a popular spot for both visitors and locals.The hot springs are said to be rich in minerals that can help detoxify the body, while the mud is believed to have anti-aging properties.I had to lather my body in wet mud and let the mud dry on my skin. Then had to wash the mud off in the four naturally sourced hot pools. Memories of a lifetime. |
Lunch for the two of us cost $ 20, cheap and nutritious.After lunch i went to the " Change room" and undressed into.my swim shorts.
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| Last " HOT SPRING" dip in the 4th pool. End of " Mud Pool and Hot Springs " therapeutic treatment .If visiting Nadi don't leave without trying the unique " Sabeto Mud Pool and Hot Springs ". |
There was no big group tour crowd like i saw in the on-line publicity brochures and along with me was a young European couple with their toddler daughter.We first had to smear our entire body with mud.Once the mud dried we had a dip in 4 different pools having warm thermal spring water.The bottom of the first 3 pools had mud at the bottom while the last pool was akin to a small swimming pool having warm thermal spring water.The main source of this " SPRING WATER" to all the 4 different pool was from one large main thermal " Mother Pool " with mud that had water of very high temperature which could scald a human and hence the same water drained to the pools for reducing temperature and making it suitable for human immersion.On payment of extra money they also offer a " MASSAGE SERVICE" after the mud and thermal spring bath.After the completion of the mud springs hot bathe drove back to Wailoaloa in heavy traffic while approaching Nadi City reaching " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast " at 1600hrs .End of a excellent days sightseeing and a unique Fijian experience of a " Mud Hot Spring Bathe". Better than a "FACELIFT" ? Most importantly the weather forecast was proved wrong and it was a cloudy but rainless day.On arriving at the Backpackers the Internet WiFi system collapsed and the entire night was without Internet.Internet addiction is a terrible disease !
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| On the Bula Bus sightseeing Denarau Island.Denarau Island is a small private resort development on the western side of Viti Levu . The 2.55 km2 resort is reached via a short causeway over a creek and is located 5 km north west of the town Nadi and 10 km west of Nadi International Airport.Denarau is known for its hotels and resorts, with the 18-hole Denarau Golf course as its centrepiece. The development includes international chains such as Hilton, Sheraton, Radisson, Westin, Sofitel and Wyndham (formerly Worldmark). |
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| " BULA BUS " service for tourists touring Denarau Resort Island. Hop On- Hop Off bus from 0730 hrs - 2330 hrs. |
Thursday (28/3/2024)Nadi .Exploring 5-Star Denarau Island :-Internet was non- functional and after breakfast got dressed and walked over to Ramada Hotel to inquire about their week- end entertainment.I had done my penance for the Holy week walking 7 km to attend Palm Sunday Mass and now decided to attend Easter Sunday mass in Mumbai.Listening to music means many things to many people and to.me music is a part of being alive in this mortal World.Requested the receptionist for allowing use of the hotel WiFi and thanks to Ramada Hotel got in touch with reality.Waiting for the Nadi bus spotted the " Whales Tale" tour bus and requested the driver to give me a lift to Nadi and he obliged to drop me halfway at landmark " R B Jetpoint" in Nadi. Something is better than nothing and agreed for the lift and alighted at " RB Jetpoint" mall.Visited " Life Cinema" multiplex theatre which has 4 theatres in this building.There were a few plush eateries with Indian cuisine and at the " New Life Pharmacy" shop came across a " Easter Crib" akin to a Christmas crib,well decorated and also having Easter cards adorning the crib, once common but now in the Internet era of greetings made redundant as are Christmas cards.Boarded the bus to Nadi and on arriving at Nadi boarded the onwards yellow coloured bus to Denarau.
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| Denarau Port |
Reached Denarau at 0950 hrs and the first topography a person notices once inside Denarau Island is its gigantic golf course that occupies the central core of the Island.Denarau Island is a 2.55 Sq Km private developed resort on the western side of Viti Levu Island which is accessed over a short causeway crossing the creek . Alighting at Denarau Port boarded the " BULA BUS" that runs in a circular circuit around the various hotels on Denarau Island.I requested the conductor to allow me to board the bus to buy the ticket at the next hotel stop.Alighted at Club Wyndham and on entering the plush 5- Star resort was impressed by the swimming pool and the hotel's view of the Denarau Island coastline.Purchased the 11$ " Bula Bus" ticket at " Wyndham Consumer stores " situated inside the hotel that allows the holder of the ticket to travel on this bus within Denarau Island for the entire day from 0730 hrs to 2330 hrs,excellent .
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| A tour of Wyndham Hotel on Denarau Island. |
My former school classmate in Mumbai Mr Rajiv.Pai now a Australian citizen has been the financial wizard of some of the top 5-star hotels in the World holding top managerial designations . He had spent 5 years in Denarau employed in the financial division of developing a few hotels.On "Whatsapp" he rang me up and advised me to visit Denarau which i would have having done my homework in distant Mumbai.From " Club Wyndham " my next stop was at the " Radisson Blue Resort " which had a beautiful artificial fountain.Once you see one " 5- Star Hotel" then you have seen them all as besides few interior decor differences,the majority of 5- Star hotel's are identical in services offered to their guests, difference being in prices depending on brand value of the hotel.Next visited the " Sheraton Resort, Fiji" that was a little different having a Fijian guitarist singing Fijian songs at the entrance.Entering the hotel came across a group of employees singing a song at a guests table.As usual there was a beautiful swimming pool but here came across a group of swimmers doing aqua exercises in the pool with the guidance of a coach.
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| Not a "FILM STAR" shoot for a film at the "Sheraton Resort Fiji" in Denarau but a photo shoot with Mr Samuela Nasaucoko who was dressed in the Fijian warrior attire wearing a boars tooth round his neck.He was a authentic tribal warrior from the Yasawa Island's of Fiji and to get the title of "WARRIOR" he had to kill a wild boar and wear its tusk round his neck. |
Later while waiting in the lounge came across a Fijian who had just arrived from a car dressed like a model at a international fashion show.
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| Denarau Island Resort coastline. |
Struck a conversation and also took a photo with Mr Samuela Nasaucoko who was dressed in the Fijian warrior attire wearing a boars tooth round his neck.He was from the Yasawa islands of Fiji and seems to become a " Warrior" he had to kill a wild boar and wear its tusk as a necklace.He was treated like a celebrity film star by a few guests/ visitors including yours truly.It is not everyday you come across a authentic tribesman in the era of Internet.Next stop was "Sheraton Villas" which i didn't visit as my tiny flat in Mumbai resembled a 5- star villa ! No harm in not being modest.After skipping the " Sheraton Villas" stop alighted at " Westin Resort" which was the first 5-star resort that opened on Denarau Island in 1975 as "Regent of Fiji" and later renamed as "Westin Resort".
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| Landscaping of Swimming Pool in " Sheraton Resort Fiji ". |
This hotel had a exceptional swimming pool and akin to "Sheraton Resort " were conducting a " Aqua exercise " session in their swimming pool to the tune of music and being guided by their coach.Next stop was " Sofitel Resort " and after that " Hilton Hotel" which had its pool without a boundary to the sea coast.After " Hilton" the next stop is " Port Denarau Marina" ,the harbour for boarding ferries and schooners for visiting the chain exotic islands of Mamanucas and Yasawas.After " Port Denarau Marina " the next stop was " The Terraces" which i again skipped as it was more of luxury apartment living.Next stop was " Big Bula" waterpark where i alighted the bus and on enquiry at reception was told the guest entrance fee was 10$ and 5$ for a locker.This waterpark offers slides and swimming pools typical of any waterpark.My last stop without any pre- planning was my best stop on the luxury hotels and clubs " Bula Bus " tour of Denarau Island.
Alighted at " Denarau Golf and Racquet " club and visited the " Heineken House Restaurant and Bar ", a plush restaurant situated at the entrance of " Denarau Golf and Racquet Club ".
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| On the 18 hole Denarau Golf course. Indescribable ambiance .Have never played Golf in my life. |
The 18 hole course Denarau Golf club was founded in 1993 and designed by Mr Eiichi Motohashi of Pannya Planning, Japan.With a par of 72 ,the 7150 yard course offers tee positions for all grades of Golfers.Besides Golf there are tennis courts . For the first time in my life actually stepped onto a Golf club as Golf has never been my cup of tea as a Indian middle class sportsman although familiar with the household names of some of the world's golfing legends including Golfer Vijay.Singh of Fiji.Later in life when i made my money it was the sport of " Horse racing" in which i invested my time and money as a punter and till today it is speculation as a " INVESTOR" that keeps me financially solvent,relevant and busy with no retirement date in sight barring financial bankruptcy. Ahoy !So far so good.A Golfer was playing his shots on the course .Relaxed with a small pint of Heineken costing 9$ and also got busy on my internet WiFi.Excellent ambiance and also witnessed a commercial Helicopter landing with its passengers as akin to a racecourse the Denarau Golf course was used as a helipad.Classmate Mr Rajiv.Pai must have lived like a Maharajah in the ambiance of the one and only Denaura resort, a total artificial mini city resort akin to Changi airport of Singapore. Travel educates.Finally decided to call it a day and boarded the " Bula Bus" back to " Port Denarau Marina ".
After a short wait the yellow coloured bus from Nadi arrived and boarded the bus.
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| Busses are the only mode of public transport in Fiji. Nadi bus terminus and Busses crowded with school children and local commuter's including yours truly. |
This bus akin to the "Bula Bus" does a complete detour of Denarau Island resort stopping at various stops near the 5- Star resorts and finally heading back to Nadi.At 1545 hrs was at Nadi bus depot and was surprised seeing almost the entire depot crowded with school children in uniform.As Fiji Islands has no train' s it is buses that provide public transport to the masses.Here in Nadi city I was experiencing first hand the life of a common commuter travelling by local transport during peak rush hours.The buses were packed to capacity and finally boarded the bus to Wailoaloa. On arrival at home away from home " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast "was happy to know the Internet was functional.I had not eaten lunch and after a quick bathe walked the short distance to " True Mart " Supermarket and walked up the stairs to the first floor of the Mexican cuisine restaurant " Olive Tree".The plush restaurant occupied the entire floor with a excellent view of the surrounding locale. Got a beautiful view of a plane landing at Nadi Airport. Awesome.Lunch cum dinner was " Prawns Fried Rice" costing 17 $ which was good since I was also very hungry having not eaten the entire day after morning breakfast.Dinner was followed by a drink of coconut juice from a young boy selling coconuts on the pavement outside " True Mart" Supermarket. Back in my palatial dormitory residence was aghast to find the WiFi malfunctioning again, a communication handicap.There was a new lady occupant Ms Tai from Tonga in the double bed separate room adjoining our dormitory .
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| " TWILIGHT ZONE" as viewed from Wailoaloa beach |
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| Preserving the cleanliness of picturesque Wailoaloa Beach locality in Nadi. Garbage collection early morning. Notice the cleanliness of the road. |
Friday(29/3/2024)Nadi :- Today was " GOOD FRIDAY" ,a very auspicious day for Christians across the Globe.In Nadi on public holidays entire public travel system is closed.Would now be only attending the Easter Sunday mass at home in Mumbai.Early morning strolled in the vicinity of Wailoaloa Beach and enquired the hotel room rates." Ramada" hotel was costliest at 535$ for 2 people." Smugglers Cove" was 195$ for 2 people ," Hotel Bulabard" was 175$ for 2 people and " Sailor's Beach" was 168 $ for 2 people.All these hotels face Wailoaloa Beach front and within 50 meters from " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast" palatial countryside estate which was opened recently in June 2023..All the plush Wailoaloa Hotels have various shows after 1900 Hrs for the Easter Weekend.
Later in the morning paid backpacker caretaker Mrs Emmaline( Emma).Wye 20$ for replacement of the towel I had forgotten on " Schooner Island " along with my swim costume.
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| Lunch at " Matasawa Hotel " and befriending the hotels pet cat. |
Walked towards " Bicycle Ride" shop situated near " True Mart " Supermarket, a plush cycle rental and repair shop recently opened in December 2023.Spoke to the shop manager Anna and also made a small video on this classic cycle shop.Seems it is the second best cycle rental in Fiji Islands with the No1 shop being in the Capital Suva.It gradually started drizzling which finally resulted in a continuous mild downpour of rain.Lunch at 1300 hrs was the standard " Fish and chips " at " Matasawa Hotel" situated next to " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast ".There was a continuous downpour of rain throughout the afternoon and I was very lucky to have done my sightseeing in good weather otherwise my entire Fiji travel would have been a washout confined indoors or roaming in a raincoat.Continuous rainfall throughout the day and night in Nadi.Later two young Caucasian ladies arrived at the Backpackers,one lady dressed in her swimming costume and stayed in the vacant double bed adjoining room. After hearing" Gospel music" in my spacious room at 1915 hrs went to Wailoaloa Beach and on inquiry of sober entertainment at all the hotels in the vicinity finally decided to have my last dinner of the tour at " SAILOR'S BEACH" hotel.
All these Wailoaloa Beach hotels have a sea facing open air restaurant including " Sailor's Beach ".
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| Last dinner of the New Zealand/ Fiji tour at " SAILOR'S BEACH " in Wailoaloa. |
As it was raining the crowd was confined in the indoor section of the hotel.Freelance singer Mr Joseva Lesivakadua was playing the synthesizer organ and singing to diners reviving sailing memories of a bygone era in Shipping .On a sailing ship you worked 24/7 with no holidays as enjoyed by normal employees on land and all festivals were celebrated or observed on boards ships.During my generation's sailing era although salaries were low compared to present generation of Sailor's once the ship berthed at Port a few like yours truly berthed at pubs or sightseeing the locale in close proximity to the port.Tasted the famous " Bounty Rum" of Fiji and dinner was " Fisherman catch",a local Fijian recipe,something different.My costliest food during the entire tour amounting to FJ 39 $..A solemn night finally come to an end and walked the short distance back to " The Ideal Bed and Breakfast ".
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| A Horseman exercising his village racehorse on Wailoaloa Beach. As for me it was a flight from Nadi to Mumbai and once home occasionally watch Indian Thoroughbred racehorses at the Mahalaxmi racecourse in Mumbai. Horses,theatre,sports ,music ,pet philanthropy, travel and writing( Blogging) prevents " JACK" from being a dull boy ! |
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| Mrs Emmaline( Emma).Wye,Manager/caretaker of this farmhouse style backpackers that is owned and managed by her family. Felt i stayed on a beach side mansion although residing in the cheapest 4-bed A/C Dormitory. Travel Off-Season has its advantages. |
Saturday (30/3/2024) Departure Nadi :- At the end of my stay realized a reason for my 4 beds backpacker room remaining vacant although there were a lot of young backpackers regularly entering and leaving the Backpackers accomodation.My room was next to the grand open air roofed sitting patio for guests who always talked in loud voices irrespective of time of the night.At 0200 hrs was awakened by loud noises outside my room of some new arrivals sitting in the patio.This was a regular occurrence daily as most of the guests were genuine definition of the term " BACKPACKER" who were 90% Caucasians and mostly teenagers or definitely below the age of 30 years.I was the oldest guest and I wonder how the English rock group " THE ROLLING STONES" feel about themselves at their age in life ? Yes, it's all in the mind and age is just a numerical number for a few .The constant noise of planes arriving and taking-off from Nadi Airport was akin to living next to a busy road with heavy traffic.First time in my life I lived this close to a airport with a Majestic view of arrival and departure of planes.Got dressed and at 0700 hrs had breakfast prepared by Emmaline. Wye who actually is in charge of running this backpacker resort with family members.After the quick breakfast requested Emmaline to call the taxi and as it was a holiday with great difficulty managed a local employee of the airport Mr Leone who was in the vicinity to ferry me to the airport.At 0725 hrs drove to the airport in a heavy drizzle.
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| On the way to Nadi Airport.Nearing the Airport. The main Highway road is excellent |
As we drove had a conversation with young street savvy Fijian Leon who told me that the Night club tourist locality of Martintar is a haven for prostitutes who just extort money through exorbitant sexual service charges but otherwise harmless.Seems Fiji has no hard core drug problem with Marijuana being the highest Cadre drug but seems drugs like cocaine, etc of which I am illiterate is making inroads into Fiji.Leon was telling me he feared for the younger generation regarding hard core drugs.CHANGE IS PERMANANT. GOOD or BAD !Reached Nadi International Airport at 0740 hrs.Thanking Leon and paying him FJ 20 $ as taxi fare headed into the airport.Fiji Airways check- in counter was open and after acquiring my boarding passes for Flight " FJ 361" to Singapore and later Flight " SQ 426" from Singapore to Mumbai deposited my trolley bag in the luggage compartment and headed to the security check-in.After " Security Check- In" next was immigration clearance and finally into the plush DUTY FREE" lounge.As usual window shopped and inquired the costliest liquor brand which was " Louis XII" at FJ 9,999.As I has some Fijian currency purchased a " Bula Shirt" and some chocolates
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| Airport Employee Mr Leon gave me a taxi ride to Nadi Airport on a rainy day. |
Finally whiled away my time on the Internet at " Gate No 8" awaiting to board the " FJ 361" to Singapore.Finally boarded onto " Seat 20A" with departure being delayed by a hour and it was a marathon 10 hrs flight from Nadi to Singapore.Watched the movies " Death on the Nile"," Dunkirk " and "Elvis" twice.So it was 4 movies watched on a single 10 hrs flight, a record on my flight's in planes which have been numerous.Food was not upto international standards and lunch was non- veg chicken while dinner was vegetarian.Touched down in Changi Airport Terminal-1 at 1845 hrs .Made inquiry and was told my boarding gate was " B3" in Terminal-3. Boarded the Skytrain and promptly reached destination and after clearing security check was at " B3" Gate to board Singapore Airlines flight " SQ 426 " .On entering the plane and occupying " Seat No 33K" was surprized to know that the gentleman sitting next to me was from the " Merchant Navy".Total stranger's became acquaintances and had a brief conversation with young Capt Devan.Dhulap settled in Darwin in Australia and employed in the " Merchant Navy " in Australia.
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| In Nadi "Duty Free" Departure Lounge. Purchased a Fijian "Bula Shirt" and Chocolates. |
He also had residence in Mumbai and hence frequently travelling between Australia and Mumbai.Inflight movie was the musical biography of Freddie.Mercury titled " Bohemian Rhapsody " ,very true to the original Farrokh.Bulsara, the authentic Parsi boy from Zanzibar who was embarrassed of his Indian roots but posthumously his biographer's couldn't conceal the same. Egyptian actor Rami.Malek deserved the Oscar for his portrayal of Freddie.Mercury in this film beginning as the awkward immigrant Farrokh.Balsara to the International British Megastar Freddie. Mercury. A superhit biographical film just like the " Elvis" ,movie co-produced and directed by Baz .Luhrmann, starring actor Austin.Butler as Elvis.Presley and actor Tom.Hanks as Col Tom.Parker.In any Elvis Presley biography the shadow of Col Tom .Parker looms larger than life and according to me "Elvis(2022)" is the best movie ever produced on the one and only Elvis.Presley . Dinner was much better than the previous 10 hrs " Fiji Airlines " flight.And during this 5 hrs flight just saw " Bohemian Rhapsody " and parts of Bob.Marley and Adele musical concerts . Finally landed at Mumbai and after normal duty free purchase,immigration clearance boarded a paid taxi at a rental of Rs 600 and was home at Old Prabhadevi road. .
