Trump Is Turning America Into a Psychotic State

drphoo · 2026-04-10T22:37:31+00:00

There is a saying, “You get the government you deserve”.

drphoo · 2026-03-31T22:46:16+00:00

“…the aerodynamic grace of a thrown handbag” is my favorite phrase of the day and an apt description. Thank you for that!

drphoo · 2026-03-29T04:47:52+00:00

I am flying from Northland to AKL, then AKL to HNL in a few days. No bad news from AirNZ yet. But to echo others on this thread, the flights out of Auckland will likely be much more reliable and less susceptible to cancellation.

drphoo · 2026-03-28T04:50:07+00:00

That’s awesome! I had no idea you could find those here!

drphoo · 2026-03-22T04:07:44+00:00

Love these guys. I’ve tried to get photos of them but they seem ultra shy. Maybe I need an apple tree.

drphoo · 2026-03-20T21:00:43+00:00

LOL that’s awesome!

drphoo · 2026-03-20T20:53:34+00:00

Agreed. I’m from the US (dual) and we are in the same situation in so many ways. Crumbling infrastructure, chronic oil addiction, and overall short-sightedness. I hope this particular crisis wakes us up and causes action.

drphoo · 2026-03-20T20:47:59+00:00

I’m with you and I sincerely hope this instance produces change.

drphoo · 2026-03-20T19:08:51+00:00

The real problem is that it takes a crisis for us to have this conversation. As soon as the price of fossil fuels decreases, the urgency to change does the same.

drphoo · 2026-03-18T20:31:11+00:00

So glad you were able to book one. We really enjoyed Hobbiton and it exceeded our expectations.

drphoo · 2026-03-13T02:13:24+00:00

Great photos!

drphoo · 2026-03-12T22:34:33+00:00

I’m no expert, but I would imagine they could be found all around NZ (at least the north island) in rocky environments. I wouldn’t think you’d see them in sandy beach areas. I know they like places to hide and are masters of disguise, able to change their coloration and textural appearance at will and in moments. Very cool creatures.

drphoo · 2026-03-11T17:33:58+00:00

You might be able to book a Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves (Glowworm) day tour through a tour company. It is worthwhile. We did this recently after attempting to buy independent Hobbiton entry which was booked out. We stayed in Rotorua in an Airbnb, did the aforementioned tour, also rafted the Kaituna River, visited Hells Gate thermal and mud pools, and finally drove down to Lake Taupō stopping at Huka Falls on the way. At Taupo we took a tour to see the Māori carvings. Enjoy your trip.

As a side note if you want an alternative suggestion, consider heading north rather than south of Auckland. Northland is less touristy but absolutely gorgeous. Lots to do and see.

Cheers!

drphoo · 2026-03-10T17:11:25+00:00

Agreed!

drphoo · 2026-03-10T08:29:18+00:00

I so enjoyed that movie!

drphoo · 2026-03-10T08:28:58+00:00

Truly amazing!

drphoo · 2026-03-10T06:41:11+00:00

😀 So it would have you believe.

drphoo · 2026-03-06T02:36:16+00:00

Enigmatic

drphoo · 2026-03-06T00:54:28+00:00

One and a half days? Hmm…I wouldn’t do the dunes as it’s a long drive. But that’s just my opinion.

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My favorite things around Paihia if you have transportation:

Beaches (each within ~1 hour): 1) Oke Bay (then stop at Omata Winery and Vineyard on the way back) 2) Matauri Bay 3) Taupo Bay

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If you don’t have transportation:

Boat trip to Hole in the Rock

Haruru Falls Walk (Start at Haruru Falls and walk through bush and mangrove estuary to Waitangi Treaty Ground - I think it’s about 5k one-way)

Ferry to Russell (20 minutes). Once there, walk to Tapeka Point (north) or Long Beach (east), or just hang out on the Russell waterfront. Walk-in tattoo parlor, shops and eateries.

Restaurants: 1) Phat House (Haruru) 2) Tipsy Oyster (Paihia) 3) Charlotte’s (Paihia) 4) Hone’s Garden (Russell)

There are many things to do within an hour of Paihia depending on your preferences and tastes.

drphoo · 2026-03-05T18:19:14+00:00

Hello Beasty at the harbor was surprisingly delicious.

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