Today we got away from the boat for a while and took a road trip inland to our first real sightseeing trip. We went to the “Glow Worm” cave. Sounds cheesy, yes? But, it was a fantastic tour.
First off the cave itself was huge and deep and beautiful. This was a guided tour, but with a twist. The cave is on private property, so the family runs the tour. They are very respectful of the land, so the tour is low key, but very informative. The cave itself has been dated to 100 million years based on the size of the stalagmites inside.
Then there were the glow worms. Little worms about 3 inches long. They live in their larval state for 10 months during which time the tip of their tail glows. Anyway, once in the cave, the highlight was the guide turning the lantern off several times as we moved through the cave whereupon the entire ceiling of the cave glowed with bluish green spots. It looked like the milky way on a clear night. Amazing.
So now we’ve done our first road trip. Our other news was we bought a car. It’s a Mitsubishi Mirage. Since we’re here for about six months, transportation is necessary, especially since we’re going to tour the countryside while we’re here. There’s a service called Cars for Cruisers that sells used cars and then guarantees to buy them back-less $2000-after the six months. So for a little over $300/month we have a car to tour the country. Nice!
A new car? Very cool. Now, of course, you have to hop it up. Can’t just have a stock car, gotta personalize it. Maybe some glow worms on the dashboard?
Sounds like the NZ customs has a gentle way of providing a little economic growth locally. Take away the sailing stores and let them resupply, helping out the local economy.
Did it take long to get your land legs back? Is civilization a little overwhelming after being on the big blue for so long? Glad you’re back on terra firma.
first a car….next a house? or would a horse be better! XO J