Driving on, we found this wonderful place
recently returned to the Maori people
who have put immense pride and toil
into, not only this magnificent hand carved
entrance arch
but also into the kilometres of walking trails
over hills and dales and along the sea side
as you walk the trails, the sacredness of this
place oozed up throughout he soles of your feet
blood red flowers to remind one of the blood
shed here over the centuries
even the service area has a long log for the volunteers
to celebrate around the bonfire
occasional shaved lawns giving a broad view
and a lovely place to picnic and listen to the
native birds singing in the large shade giving trees
last, but certainly not least, this massive tract of land
is surrounded by a seven foot high paling fence
forcing one to enter by the gate, that has a
magical protective force.
Walking through the entrance arch, there is a feeling of awe
as you enter this sacred place.
I saw a number of cars turn back and go away
obviously not able to appreciate this place.
I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the way we travel.
We tend to avoid the large crowds and car parks
of the usual tourist attractions
and follow up the gentle places of this world.
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