Kiwis

Kiwis... What are kiwis?

We have heard about 3 different kinds of "kiwi" so far on our travels through New Zealand's South Island.

The kind of kiwi that we eat, is referred to as "kiwi fruit" and grows here readily. There are at least 2 kinds. One of these fruits has what I would say is the the typical hairy outside that isn't so tasty, with an inside that is super yummy.  Another version is influenced by China, and has a golden skin that is edible.

The second type of kiwi, is the bird. There are several different kinds of kiwi birds here, all just as precious as the last. This is a great little bird that has "feathers" that are more like a thin fur or a fine hair. "How could such a beast fly.", you might ask. Exactly! They don't. They spend their time on the forrest floor eating bugs and worms.The reason they don't fly is that they evolved to their current state because of lack of predators. There were no natural reasons for them to fly. There were/are a couple of other flightless birds, and surprisingly enough (read that with the sarcasm with which I write it, please), they are either extinct or on their way. The moa was an ostrich-like bird that is no longer.  It has been hunted into extinction.  Another one that is still around, but in danger of extinction is the takahe. Our wonderful guide, Sarah told us how serious New Zealanders are about protecting their endangered kiwi birds.  "If they die out, the Australians will NEVER let us live it down!" THAT is serious!!

Finally, there is the New Zealander.  They call themselves and each other "kiwis". They ae a very special people for sure. I have really enjoyed getting to know them.  They are very friendly, if I can generalize this way.  I guess I can see where my sweetie, Russell Crowe, gets his sweetness.  Speaking of "the Man, the Myth, the Legend".  The kiwis are readily willing to claim him as theirs "when he does good stuff.  You know, "good on him!" But, when he's getting in bar fights...well, that's the Aussie in him!" 

We really have met some wonderful kiwi here.  I was lucky enough to make quick buddies out of a tour guide-type who joined us at the Maori presentation (more on that to come). I am wanting to find a really specific and special gift for a really special person.  I thought that I might have a hard time finding it for a number of reasons so at every chance I get, I let someone "in the know" know what I'm looking for and why. So, Matthew (tour guide mentioned just now) was kind enough to walk me through this little town to search and ask where we might find such a treasure.  We checked no fewer than 10 stores and i know, based on what he told me about kiwi culture, he put himself out there for my request.  I appreciate his efforts, even though we came ip empty handed.  Maybe that "failure" was why he felt it necessary to buy me a cup of coffee (let's talk coffee soon!!!) AND walk with me and another teacher along the shore, all the while retelling New Zealand history and culture.  

Last kiwi for now is Dennis.  Dennis is our driver.  This guy has put up with a bus load of kids, ages 11(yeah...we'll talk about THAT!) to 19, and as if THAT weren't enough, their accompanying adults.  He has interesting tidbits to add to things that Sarah tells us, when she asks. He is friendly at all times--even after 6 hours of driving.  He has carried bags, unlocked the baggage "locker" ad naseum, listened to silly comments from me about Russell Crowe (even ribbing me about a movie that Sarah put on ("World's Fastest Indian" about the land speed record held by a New Zealander), saying "they couldn't have picked a better actor to play Burt...even Russell Crowe couldn't have done better!") and found a way to stop on a winding highway that really had no space for stopping when we had a sick kiddo! He is amazing and a great example of kindness! 

More later.  I hope you are enjoying the blog.  I'll try to get pictures up when I can!