Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is an Island off the coast of NZ (north main island, Auckland), Waiheke in english means cascading or ebbing water. Maori people have lived there for hundreds of years, I think I saw a Pou (similar totem poles) on the way there (we took a ferry) we got to really see New Zealand outside of auckland for the first time. There were many smaller islands; they almost looked volcanic because of abrupt pointy hills.

On the island most people worked in restaurants or had some sort of job related to the tourists, as it is a big tourist attraction, some people also worked on vineyards, farms, ect. Out on the island they had to use rainwater for bathing, washing hands, and more because there are no usable water sources on or under the island. There are many vineyards on the island due to its climate, its long summers and mild winters make it the “Mediterranean” of New Zealand.

There are many amazing animals on the island, and plants, I saw birds like theTūī, and aPīwakawaka – Fantail

Pīwakawaka – Fantail. I even saw a stingray. We followed the stingray and it led us behind rocks to a secret beach with lots of cool shells. It was very cool! My mom built a sculpture of birds out of shells.At the entrance to the forest there was a sign to wipe your shoes. After researching I figured out this helps prevent a dangerous type of water mold from spreading! There were brushes and it was a smart way to keep the island safe!

Waiheke Island was a special place with amazing animals and views. If you’re ever in Auckland check it out!