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Picton was a very pleasant surprise and a thoroughly
enjoyable community. It is a community of some 3600
people - the smallest place we would visit. But it
is important in New Zealand and sits in one of the
most beautiful areas of the country. |
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The Port of Picton serves ferries connecting the
populous North Island to the scenic South Island.
The town sits at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound,
and provides a natural deep water harbor. Most
people who come to Picton are on their way somewhere
else. That is too bad. |
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The little town has much to offer. This is its main
street with little shops and sidewalk cafes on
either side. The harbor (seen above) is home to lots
of sail boats and pleasure craft of all sorts. Many
New Zealanders come to the town in the summer months
for recreation. |
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We
landed on a Sunday morning and went to Church at St.
Timothy's Anglican Church just a short walk from the
town center. We were very warmly welcomed by the
congregation, and heard a fine sermon given by a lay
woman. The Church is going though a change of
rectors at the moment. But that didn't seem to
affect their life as a community. |
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Along the harbor is a wonderful park. On Sunday
morning it was filled with families enjoying the
warm sun. Jim was very interested in a miniature
train run by local model railroaders for the benefit
of the children. The rides cost 20 cents in New
Zealand money - about 12 cents American. |
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In
the afternoon, we were able to go to a Maori Marae -
a meeting place - for a formal ceremony of welcome,
and a time of song and dance and refreshments. A part of
the "welcome" for strangers involves a challenge by
a fierce Maori warrior. Once admitted, however, the
strangers enjoy a happy experience of Maori culture.
Take a look at the
Marae! |
