December 27th and 28th The Visiting of the Montanans

December 27th We have had the lovely Greg & Leslyn from Montana visiting NZ, and not for the first time and we hope not for the last time.  They have been staying in Hamilton for a couple of days. So far during their time in NZ they have developed a reputation as seafood gatherers.  We decided a Seafood meal would just have to be the order of the day.

The menu started off with George's BBQ'd Mussels - believe me I was not much of a Mussel lover before but am a staunch convert eating Mussels cooked this way.

But wait there's more!  Greg and Leslyn have been gathering Oysters and Greg cooked up an Oyster Stew for us.

There's a strange man at my stove!

And I have to share the rest of our meal as it was just so yummy. George also BBQ'd Salmon with Capers and his secret Moustade recipe.  I made a Raw Fish Salad (also known as Iki Mata, Kokoda or Ceviche). Overseas guests are wary when they hear me call it Raw Fish, however the proof was in the eating and it was enjoyed. Accompanied by a Ham & Potato Salad and Marinated (?) Cucumber.  We were all that full after that effort that dessert was a definite no no.

December 28th We decided to take Greg and Leslyn on some nearby sights. First stop was the Otorohanga Kiwi House where we were told there were 2 Kiwi on display today. But as this was a Royal Visit we had access to a third Kiwi, so we got to see 3 Kiwi in total. From there we made our way to Waitomo Caves and that was a circus. Long queues to even enter the carpark, and Greg & Leslyn decided they would happily forgo a visit there until next time and at a quieter time. So we ventured down the quieter road to Mangapohue Natural Bridge.  A beautiful picnic lunch (comprising last night's left overs), an oh my god this is divine dessert (Denheaths - google them and go forth and order), and of course as there can only be one driver (my lovely George), a fine bottle of red for us ladies and some cool beers for Greg. After indulging in this lot, we thought we had better get down there and let Greg & Leslyn check out the bridge. We have been here a lot now and never tire of it, and everytime I am constantly clicking away and taking photos.

Can you spot the Monster looking down at us?

We finished our day with a visit to Marakopa Falls, classed as one of the most spectacular waterfalls in NZ. So you can't be in the area and by pass the falls can you?

And there were some fantastic bits of Fungi spotted on our walk out

Then it was time to head home after a day of wonderful company and beautiful sights. We were so glad to have the opportunity to share, a piece of New Zealand that we dearly love, with Greg and Leslyn.