Dunedin, New Zealand

Today was our last port of call in New Zealand.  We took a six hour train ride into the interior of the south island of New Zealand.  We rode the Taieri Gorge Railway which was the fabled route of pioneers and prospectors.  On board we were treated to tea and biscuits, wine, beer and lunch.  Besides the beauty of the country, we sat with a charming couple who were married 63 years.  He reminded me of my father with his telling of jokes, his manner of speaking (although with an Australian accent) and his funny, kind and gentle manner.  It was such an enjoyable trip made better by their company.  Today was the first day that it rained but it was only a short time and we were on the train, so it actually enhanced our trip with the dark clouds and rain against the windows.  We were so pleased with our first scheduled excursion.  The next two days are at sea but tomorrow we sail in and out of the fiords.

The train station in Dunedin was also historic, featuring an elaborate Victorian facade, 750,000 porcelain floor tiles and etched glass work.  It's nicknamed "Gingerbread Gorge" in honor of its architect, George Troup.