LocumLife - January 2009 - (Page 22) Around the world & back again Top 10 List Living in New Zealand was one of the highlights of our lives: 1. The friendly people. The Kiwis’ charming accent and interesting way of expressing themselves always brightened our hearts. 2. Our apartment at Chaffers Dock overlooking the Wellington Harbor. This 1932 building, originally built as the main post office in the art deco style, was converted to apartments in 2007. 3. Visiting the official residence of the American ambassador. William McCormick invited members of the New Zealand American Association for a Christmas reception. Izzy proudly wears the lapel pin the ambassador gave him with the U.S. and New Zealand flags crossing. 4. Attending monthly jazz concerts at Old Saint Paul’s Church, featuring the group Hot Club Sandwich. My eyes teared when we saw the American and Marine Corps flags hung in a place of honor in this colonial wood frame church. 5. Animal watching. Our most exhilarating experience was swimming with the dolphins in Kaikoura, but we will also fondly remember our sightings of yellow-eyed penguins, little blue penguins, kiwi birds, albatross, sperm whales, and some of the islands’ 40 million possums. 6. Watching the nation pay tribute to its hero, Sir Edmund Hillary, who was the first to conquer Mt. Everest. The ceremonies honoring his death were equal to the honor Americans give to the passing of an ex-president. 7. Wine tasting. Wineries in New Zealand rival the best in Northern California. The country excels in Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. 8. Attending the Wellington Foreign Film Festival. Peter Jackson, director of the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, is a god in New Zealand for exposing the world to the wonders of the country. 9. Spectacular landscapes, quiet beaches, bustling cities, and charming villages. From the bottom of the South Island to the top of the North Island, we marveled at the beauty. 10. Sports. We developed an interest in the national sport, rugby. It was heartbreaking to watch the All Blacks lose to France in the 2007 World Cup. Izzy proudly wears his t-shirt supporting the team. 22 LocumLife JANUARY 2009 http://www.locumlife.com http://www.locumlife.com
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