So, Rick has strep. Or at least all of the signs to suggest strep - only a swab test can confirm but they are medicating him for the worst. Can't dive sick and we must dive so he must heal, asap! Overall he actually felt better this morning. We still called the glaciers guides to see if we could postpone our hike until tomorrow, which was no problem because everyone in New Zealand is so kind and accommodating. So, instead we went to the local clinic. No ATM in town, but lucky for us, they did have a clinic. Spent the rest of the day walking the small towns of Fox Glacier and Franz Joseph.
Found a wildlife center in Franz Joseph. The only animals on site were two Rowi Kiwi birds, the rarest of the five Kiwi birds with a population of less than 400 in NZ. Spent an absurd amount of time watching them forage for food and do whatever it is Kiwi birds do. Learned about the history of the Kiwi in New Zealand and how the introduction of many animals by humans has led to the near elimination of the Kiwi population. Despite efforts to eradicate or heavily monitor the number of these predators, the Kiwi numbers were dwindling too quickly so a program called Operation Nest Egg was put in place to help breed Kiwis all the while trying to better control their predators. Side note: the bat is the only mammal indigenous to New Zealand - the - only - mammal. Crazy! Wildlife center also featured information about the Fox and Franz Joseph Glaciers which was all too appropriate given our plans for tomorrow. Glaciers are fascinating.
Otherwise, laid low. Need to heal and stay healthy. :)
Some random notes: NZ toilets have two different flushers - full and half - very eco friendly. Every outlet in Tahiti and in NZ has its own switch right on the outlet - very eco friendly. ATMS ask you to consider the environment before taking a receipt. Many of the shopping bags are made entirely from recylced material. Are we starting to notice a trend?! US needs to step up!
Operation Nest Egg
Save The Kiwi
Hiya,
ReplyDeleteFollowing your blog has been the highlight of our days! Your dialog has been perfect! What an inspiration to do a blog. The little things you've shared with us will even be more precious to you as a reminder of this time for years to come. It's been wonderful to share your first days as a married couple and watch your growing bond as your own "family unit." Not to mention our living vicariously thru all your adventures :-) NZ sounds like one of the last few spots on earth that hasn't been damaged by human habitation - savor it!
A parting thought which you already know but is so appropriate: "Life is not measured in the number of breaths you take, but in the moments that take your breath away."
Love you both completely,
C & D