Wellington Explorations
This Monday proved to be the end of my lucky streak, moneywise. So far plastic money was all I needed to pay for my daily needs, even if it was just 95 cents for a bottle of water or the purchase of tokens in the laundromat. Now, for the bus from Wadestown into Wellington, cash or a “Snapper” card was necessary, of which I had neither. I solved the problem by walking into town and subsequently getting a bit of cash for my ride home.
I like exploring a new place on foot, especially on a day like today. According to Erika, my sister-in-law, on a sunny day Wellington is second to none. And she is right!
The Monday morning bustle grew stronger and stronger after I passed the Beehive, the executive wing of the New Zealand Parliament, and walked into the Central Business District, Lambton Quay. The Cable Car brought me up Tinakori Hill – or Te Ahumairangi Hill in Māori – to the Botanical Gardens, from where I had a splendid view of the city. The next day I would stroll through parts of the gardens and hike home from there, which turned out to be more challenging than I’d expected. My path followed a number of arduous climbs and steep descents, but the vistas were all the more rewarding.
On the Monday, however, I walked down the hill into the city again to explore more of Wellington’s core, the Waterfront in particular. At the wharf I found the building where the Harbour Board has its offices. In his early New Zealand years, Ignaz, my brother-in-law, called this place his home. I sat at the water’s edge a long time, the sun warming my back. Eyes closed I listened to the sounds around me: the rhythmic swish-plonk of some teenagers’ fishing tackle, the squawks and calls of seagulls, the lapping of the water at the dockside, the chatter and laughing of passers-by. What precious luxury!
A visit to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa filled most of the Tuesday. It is known for its interactive exhibitions showcasing New Zealand’s heritage – cultural, natural, and artistic. Four and a half hours just flew by!
