Day 12: Dolphin love on New Zealand.....

We all know that there are lots of geysers on Iceland and also that there are volcanoes on Sicily (among other places). But did you know that on New Zealand they actually have both; in addition to rainforests, mountains, fjords and  long, white beaches where dolphins play? We didn't. What fascinating combinations indeed! I was thrilled to find that out.

New Zealand consists of two rather big islands joined together,  I believe that they are just called the "northern" island and the "southern" island.

The two islands that together makes New Zealand.

We decided not to do the most obvious thing and go see the capitol Wellington, as we weren't very keen on discos, restaurants and all the things you can do anywhere in bigger cities. Instead we wanted to experience something different and to go see the more adventurous part of this fantastic and versatile country.
So we decided to travel to Bay of Islands, on the northern island, to check out one of those famous, white beaches. Can't possibly leave New Zealand without having done that! Also, we really wanted to see if we were lucky enough to find some gorgeous dolphins that wanted to have a swim with the two of us. That would be such a dream-come-true.....And guess what; we were luckier than we ever thought possible; three of these beautiful creatures came sliding through the water to play with us, just as we went into the water!
I had bought one of those beach balls that they sell at the shop next to the beach bar, and that turned out to be quite a success. The dolphins loved it, and we played ball with them for a long time........dolphins are really  the most fantastic animals, so loving and intelligent, and they looked like they cared about us and really wanted to be our friends. They were so gentle and careful with us, and it just like they respected us like we respect them. Oh......I will miss them desperately!
Hotels are kind of expensive at this time of year on Bay of Islands, so we talked to the owner of the beach bar and she adviced us to go rent one of those small, cute bungalows further up the beach. We were happy about her advice, as it turned out to be the best choice for us! The bungalows are very popular among young travelers, and we got to know a couple of Danish girls our age who were staying in the bungalow next to ours. We had fun! :-)

Is this a gorgeous beach or what?

This is a picture of the bungalow we stayed in....ours was the one to the left. 

We could hear the sound of the waves from the sea as we fell asleep that night....ah, I could get used to this!

The dolphins photographed from a distance.

Unfortunately, we didn't manage to get any really good photos of the dolphins, because we were too busy to play with them. But we have fantastic memories in our hearts that will never grow old!
The next time I travel to New Zealand I will most definitely stay for a long time on Bay of Islands, and I will make sure to have time to go see the geysirs.


Sandra Bertelli