Te Puia is a Maori cultural center here in Rotorua. We have been meaning to check it out since we've been here and figured we'd better fit it in before we're off next week.
This is a replica of what a typical Maori house or hut was like. Obviously it was quite small, and not made for living in, but just to sleep. The Maori worked, ate and played outdoors in a communal living type of environment.
This big fella is made out of 3,000 year old wood, local to Rotorua. When he is completed he is making the trip to the world fair in Beijing, China where he will be presented as a gift to that nation.
These gentlemen above are doing the 'Haka', a war dance, done to intimidate the enemy. If it worked the enemy would retreat and no battle would take place. I bet it worked a number of times, these fellas can look pretty scary.
Above Rob is greeting the warriors in the group by touching noses twice while grunting. It's a man thing.
Rob was chosen to be the tourist 'chief', and as such was made to greet the approaching Maori leader by picking up the leaf he places down representing peace. By doing so he is telling them that we come in peace and then they are at ease to welcome us. The Maori tour guide said that once Rob picked up the leaf the Maori leader would slap his thigh and turn, knowing Rob meant no harm. But interestingly the Maori leader walked backwards the entire time and never took his eyes off of Rob. I guess he just knew he was dealing with a trouble maker =).
Lizzy with her teachers from kindy.
The beaches...the kids will miss them.
The people and their proud heritage
It is a bittersweet feeling to know we are leaving this country so soon. There is much we will miss. We have met some wonderful people and enjoyed being close to so many beautiful lakes, beaches, and countryside. I hope at some point in time we will be back to visit the people and places we have come to love here. Yes, leaving is bittersweet. I love this picture, the sheepy seems to be wishing us a fond farewell. We will miss you too sheepy! =) Here's to another beginning.
