26 May 2023
Merv and Rangimarie provide a beautiful and spiritual introduction to Aotearoa and Whangārei, the meeting place of whales. Starting at the spectacular Otuihau, Te Wai Tiketike o Waiangā, or Whangārei Falls. Their honesty, openness and love of their culture radiated and as an Australian Indigenous woman together we built a whakawhanaungatanga that will always stay with me, and I will return one day with a friend to introduce my new Whānau (family). I shared the joy of song, weaving, beautiful kai that met my dietary needs and traditional welcome and farewell. Most importantly I was introduced to O Te Iwi O Tane Mahuta and many other beautiful kauri descended from the Lord Of The Forest, he who gave light to the place we stand. I cannot recommend this beautiful couple enough. If on a limited budget for tours, don’t do a whole pile of cheaper tours, just do this one. You will get more out of your few hours than in any other experience. You will discover the true stories, the spirit and hospitality that can only be shown by the first people of this nation.