Tauranga

On our last day (Friday), before we disembark in Auckland, we docked beside the QE II in Tauranga.  We were graciously hosted by Sharon & Cam Ridsdale, friends from Canada who spend the winter in Tauranga.  We walked around Mt Maunganui and the beautiful beach town, where they were starting a weekend long Life Savers competition / festival.  We had a great lunch at Sharon & Cam’s apartment, before walking the beach and taking a quick tour around Tauranga, on the way back to the ship. It was a very relaxing and enjoyable day.

The QE II in all her glory.

The Diamond Princess and QE II docked in the harbour.

This is Mt Maunganui, which is just a big hill.

The hike around it was very pleasant.

Lots of picturesque views.

The ocean was very pretty in this area.

The Life Savers Festival had just gotten started. It's an all weekend competition & party.

The beach in Tauranga was beautiful and went for miles.

Lunching with Sharon and Cam at their apartment.