W is for Walking: a brisk climb to Mt Kaukau for expansive views

Wellington from Mt Kaukau

We started the day with a short, but steep climb to a high point in Khandallah, Mt Kaukau, for remarkable vistas across Wellington, the CBD, Wellington Harbour, and across Cook Strait to South Island which was clearly visible, we could even see a snow capped peak in the distance.

A perfect summer day, light breeze, big blue skies, good way for Shawni and Craig to start their summer holiday.

T is for Tui: a New Zealand native

The Tui, is a New Zealand endemic that has flourished and survived and thrived despite urbanisation and all the issues the other endemics have experienced here.

They have entered the consciousness of everyone in New Zealand, more than any other bird and they are a brand all of their own!

Their droll snow-white feathers on the neck are called poies and give me a thrill each time a glimpse them. The hind neck is ornamented with filamentous plumes, the tui's chortle and chuckle and then break out into amazing song. They can look black but their colour is a shining metallic green with bluish purple reflections on the shoulders.

What a treat to have them in the garden, along our morning walk, I am back in New Zealand when I hear the Tui call.

P is for Pohutukawa: the Kiwi Christmas tree

"The pohutukawa tree (Metrosideros excelsa) with its crimson flower has become an established part of the New Zealand Christmas tradition. This iconic Kiwi Christmas tree, which often features on greeting cards and in poems and songs, has become an important symbol for New Zealanders at home and abroad."

I was so looking forward to seeing these crimson flowers and what they symbolise for Christmas in New Zealand. 

And they are beautiful. 

So here I am, far from South Africa, on Christmas Eve with Shawni and Craig in their lovely Wellington home, appreciating where I am and loving the calls of the Tui birds, it is a perfect day.