[New Zealand] Northland: Natural Wonders
Back in January, Morgue and I went on a weeks camping trip up through the North Island to Northland. I've been a bit remiss in not actually sorting out photos thus far. So here are a few. Mostly of some of the varied natural wonders seen on our meanderings through the north.

Mt. Ruapehu, Central North Island





Mt. Tongariro, Central North Island



Whangamata Beach, Coromandel Peninsula



Te Matua Ngahere, Northland
Photos just don't do justice to the kauri, the giant trees that used to blanket the land. Te Matua Ngahere (The Father of the Forest) is just incredible, a vast living thing that, literally, just appears as you round a corner in the path. If you're ever in northern New Zealand, go and visit the kauri. They are the most incredible living things I've ever had the priviledge to see.




Tane Mahuta, Northland
The biggest of the kauri, Tane Mahuta (Lord of the Forest) is no less incredible that its near neighbour Te Matua Ngahere. It is an amazing and wonderful thing to stand in the presence of something that has been growing on this spot since before the time of Christ.



Cape Reinga, Northland
The northern tip of New Zealand, where two oceans come together and, according to Maori belief, the spirits of the departed last touch the land of the islands before their long journey across the sea.



Doubtless Bay, Northland



Uretiti Beach, Northland