YGA Down Under '08

Still working on the blog...scroll down for a surprise...

2008-03-12T02:00:00.002+13:00

Just a quick post to let you know that we are back in Smithsburg...safe and sound. Our flights were uneventful, albeit long. Chesley rocked, just like normal. She spent the first few hours of the AirNZ flight to San Francisco sitting in her bassinet entertaining the cabin with hand puppets. I actually thought she was performing for us...silly me...I then realized that while sitting in the bassinet she was actually visible to the entire cabin. What a crack up!!! Sorry no pics, I was to busy trying to make sure that she didn't fall out of her first class seat. We actually got back in the middle of the night last Thursday. Stayed with my Mum & Dad in the city for the night, and travelled back to Smithsburg (to collapse) on Friday afternoon. Spent Sat & Sun trying to get our feet back on the ground and get caught up around here and now it is Tuesday (actually Wednesday)...where has the time gone??? Unfortunately I managed to get the cold funk right before our departure home, and Matt is battling it now. Chesley...she never really got the full blown YUCK but her nose is still runny as we speak. All is well on the home front. The dog and cat seem thrilled to see us, the house WAS super tidy upon our return (thanks CILDA!!!), and the greenhouse is really coming along (we are scheduled to stretch plastic tomorrow). We started drilling a well today...you can't imagine the mess!!! Thanks goodness we have friends with BIG backhoes to rapidly dig giant pits to catch the slurry!!! My only concern...keeping animals and small children FAR away from it all!!! Okay, tomorrow is going to come early enough...as you will notice I am back to my late night posting. Hope this finds you (all 3,000+ of you) well. Consider the blog still under construction. Lindsey was in with Matt today at the Extension office and moved a few things around...I have actually just figured out how to change the time/date stamp of individual posts...translation...I think that I can even streamline it a little better. Not sure when, but will keep you "posted." Cheers, Mary

PS - We would love to hear from you...that means those of you that were with us in NZ and those of you who have logged in and been "virtually" to NZ. I am still amazed when people, who I never would have expected, tell me how much they have enjoyed reading the blog. That being said, I am calling you out...readers, where are you, and how did you find us? Leave us a comment and let us know!!! Cheers, Mary

A little something for the CH Fan Club...

2008-03-12T01:53:00.001+13:00

Chesley in NZ ’08

Click here to see full album with captions...
http://good-times.webshots.com/slideshow/562757483QiibRh

Chronological Order

2008-03-11T12:30:00.000+13:00

The blog postings are now in chronological order for the most part. This should be easier to understand and to follow. I hope everyone has enjoyed learning about our trip. We plan to have a meeting sometime where anyone can come to hear about our trip. More information on that later.

Lindsey Kammerer

Congratulations Sidney! Plus other ACFGA meeting highlights…

2008-03-04T22:39:00.006+13:00

Several Mid Atlantic Young Growers Alliance members, including four jet-lagged New Zealand travelers, attended the Adams County Fruit Growers Association Banquet at the Holiday Inn in Gettysburg Saturday, February 23rd. YGA members and the rest of the local fruit industry alike were proud and excited to see our own chairwoman Sidney Kuhn presented the 2008 ACFGA Fruit Grower of the Year award!

It served as a testament to the Sidney's work in encouraging others in her generation to become active in the fruit industry that the YGA's presence was felt in nearly every facet of the meeting. The meeting itself was organized and conducted by ACFGA President and Past President Matt Showers and Eric Haller, respectively. Both Matt and Eric represent the upcoming generation of their family farms. YGA member Ben Wenk (guitar) and his friend David "The Total Package" Cutshall (saxophone) entertained the crowd as they chatted and dined.

After the acknowledgment of guests, Pennsylvania Apple Queen, YGA member, and international ambassador for the industry Hannah Lott approached the podium to deliver her report. She began by expressing the important role the YGA played during her time as Apple Queen. Speaking specifically of her trip to New Zealand, she showed the crowd a green stone pendant that she was wearing, carved in the Maori Koru (unfurling fern frawn) shape – explaining that it signifies a new directive and that she believes the experience gained on that trip will provide a new directive for our fruit industry. (Click here to learn a wee bit more about Maori Culture: http://www.newzealand.com/travel/about-nz/culture/culture-maori-culture.cfm) She went on to highlight some other functions she attended and some favorite moments at other festivals but not before thanking those who helped her enjoy these wonderful experiences; the ACFGA, the YGA, the rest of the folks on our trip, and the generosity of Bear Mountain Orchards (which got a good chuckle out of everyone).

Not long after Hannah's very thoughtful and well-spoken update, another of our Young Grower women was the recipient of some well-deserved recognition. Sidney Kuhn, who helped found and continues to help operate our Young Grower's Alliance, was recognized as Grower of the Year. In addition to the numerous hours she's spent with SHAP organizing the YGA, our trips, and encouraging her peers to pursue agriculture, she has overseen the Scholarship Committee of SHAP and the Scott Brown Memorial Scholarship. Her contributions were also felt through her outstanding work at the Land Conservancy of Adams County where her efforts directly influenced the conservation of over 1,000 acres of farmland and forest lands in Adams County. It was a proud moment not only for Sid and her family but for all of us with a connection to the Young Growers Alliance when Sid reached the podium to a standing ovation! Thank you, Sid, for everything you've done for our budding group of Young Growers, our local ag community, and fruit growers across the state!

Ben Wenk

Long Day of Travel

2008-03-01T09:51:00.003+13:00

The flights in New Zealand were uneventful. It made for a long day. On the bright side the Reidetts, Wes, Ben K, and Lindsey got an earlier flight and made it back almost before everyone else. We were very glad to not to sit in the airport all day. Sidney made it home to the east coast and was very surprised to see us. Jen, Hannah, Abby, and Ben W. should be at their respectful homes or on their way by car. A big thanks to Matt, Mary, and Liz for everything. Please tell Chesley her people miss her.

Lindsey Kammerer

Out of town for the weekend...

2008-02-29T23:09:00.000+13:00

We are on our way to Akaroa with friends for the weekend. Look for the final 2 trip posts on Sunday/Monday. Hope everyone has enjoyed "travelling with us" to New Zealand! Cheers, Mary

Hi guys...

2008-02-28T22:59:00.005+13:00

Just got finished posting the blogs that Matt would have loaded onto his laptop prior to your departure. Slowly but surely we are going to get this thing done! Does anyone have a post already written for Monday (travel to Mt. Peel Station with stop at Barker's and BBQ w/Tussock of Rangitata Rafts), Tuesday (Rafting & Rotary), Wednesday (Lincoln Dairy Farm, Black Currant Operation, Boot buying expedition + Untouched World + Kathmandu, etc. & Rossendale wine tasting/dinner), and last but not least Thursday (departure day with curry for lunch and shopping/Arts Centre/Canterbury Museum). Next question, would anyone like to write a post for any of these days? There are a few of you that I don't think have had the pleasure to date...won't call you out quite yet but I will say that the ladies have ALL taken their turn...ummmmmm??? So, if you would be willing, shot me an email: chesveg@gmail.com or rmh27@psu.edu .

Hannah, your video has been a tremendous hit!!! I can't tell you how many people have commented on it. Maggie, Lindsey, Abby & Ben Keim...would you guys be able to post your videos? Am I forgetting anyone? I would be happy to walk you through the blog login if you are willing? Again, email: chesveg@gmail.com or rmh27@psu.edu .

Ok, better run. It is almost 1am...pray that Chesley sleeps through the night or I am really in trouble. She is missing you guys...Mum & Dad are not quite as interesting as you lot!!!
Cheers, Mary

PS - Jailhouse slide show is still here...
scroll down to the bottom of the page to click through the lineup!!!

Leaving, on a jet plane...

2008-02-28T22:31:00.006+13:00

It is about 10:30pm NZ time and Chesley is down for the count...you guys will appreciate the fact that she actually fell asleep in her highchair while we were eating dinner (I think that everyone is WORN out) but after her catnap she was revived until just a few moments ago. She has been a wee bit out of sorts the last few days as she finally succumbed to the flu/cold that has been so graciously passed around.

Don't worry...I think that the group on their way across the pond is mostly on the mend. Just wanted to post a quick note to let you know that they departed Christchurch this afternoon @ 4:30pm. We were able to stay with them until they headed through security for their domestic flight to Auckland. They were scheduled to layover for about 90 minutes (in which time they needed to pay their departure taxes, and switch terminals) and they were scheduled to depart Auckland for SFO @ 7:30pm. I am assuming that no news is good news and that they are about 3+ hours into their Trans-pacific journey. Home before you know it...

Now that we are not moving around quite as much, Matt & I will endeavour to update the blog. There are numerous posts that have been written, but we were unable to post due to poor connections. We will try to organize and post in the next few days. Also, I know that our most recent posts have been a wee bit wordy...we will try to lighten things up with pics and videos too. Moral of the story...it isn't over yet!!! Don't be a stranger...there is still so much more to share.

And to those Mums & Dads, husbands, significant others, families reading this...we are already missing your young growers!!! It was our pleasure to show them around the South Island!!!

Cheers, Mary (Matt & Baby Chesley)

That's all she wrote... (Thursday, Feb.21, 2008)

2008-02-27T21:43:00.002+13:00

Our last day in New Zealand.

How could two weeks have flown by so fast?? After packing our bags for the last time, our cells were unlocked at the Jailhouse and we were set free. The morning was spent shopping in Christchurch for souvenirs to bring to our loved ones (and last minute purchases for ourselves) and viewing the artworks in the Arts Centre http://www.artscentre.org.nz/ and Christchurch Art Gallery http://www.christchurchartgallery.org.nz/ and the collections of early Antarctic exploration and traditional Maori society at the Canterbury Museum http://www.canterburymuseum.com/. A few of the group even brushed shoulders with the Prime Minister who was visiting some of the same museums!

For our final meal together, we headed off to Arjee Bhajee, (http://www.arjeebhajee.co.nz/) one of Matt and Mary’s favorite local restaurants...Indian food with attitude. The owner of the restaurant provided us with a brief overview of the restaurant’s history, how he developed the unique dining experience and restaurant brand as well as the experience of opening a second establishment. At the airport we said our goodbyes to Matt, Mary, Liz, Graham and Chesley and boarded our plane for the beginning of nearly 24 hours of travel back to PA. Matt and Mary, we don’t know how to thank you enough for guiding us through an experience of a lifetime. But I believe the energy and ideas gained from our trip will be evident as the members of this group of 12 young growers forge their future in the Mid-Atlantic fruit industry. Cheers!!

Sidney Kuhn

Why are we on a dairy farm again? (Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008)

2008-02-27T00:44:00.005+13:00

Wednesday Feb 20, our next to last day in NZ, was a bit of a whirlwind. We rolled out from the Jailhouse in Christchurch to meet Neil Gow and Bruce Greig at the Lincoln Dairy Farm http://www.siddc.org.nz/ludf.html , http://www.lincoln.ac.nz/story23244.html. Neil is quite the legend in the South Island farming community; he lectured in farm management at Lincoln for over 40 years and has essentially educated two generations of farmers. There aren’t too many things about NZ ag that Neil doesn’t know, or too many people he doesn’t know. His network is pretty incredible – even extending to the US (his son Hamish is currently a professor in the ag economics department at Michigan State). And perhaps most importantly, he was one of advisors during my time at Lincoln http://www.lincoln.ac.nz/. Bruce is originally from South Africa, and has worked with many progressive farms in the South Island, particularly in the dairy sector, before coming to lecture at Lincoln.

Even though no one in our group came from a dairy background, I felt it was really important that we visit at least one dairy farm while in NZ. Why? Because dairying is quite different in NZ compared with PA, and although NZ has traditionally had a reputation for being a country full of sheep, it is increasingly becoming a country full of Fresians (NZ version of Holsteins). Dairy and wine are the current growth sectors for farming in NZ, with dairy undergoing a pretty substantial boom at the moment thanks to historically high international dairy commodity prices. The dairy industry is currently creaming it (ha ha) even with the exchange rate at unprecedented levels. Incidentally did you know that Fonterra http://www.fonterra.com/wps/wcm/connect/fonterracom/fonterra.com/Home/(the mega dairy coop) is the largest company in NZ, and the largest trader in NZ dollars in the world? Quite literally milk is the new gold in New Zealand farming and to really understand ag in New Zealand to have to at least have some appreciation of dairying.

Neil Gow, NZ ag legend...
Lincoln Dairy Farm Pics

So how exactly is dairying in NZ different from PA? For starters, its pasture based and seasonal - meaning the cows graze on their own (as opposed to being fed in barns) and are only milked when the grass is growing (about nine months on, three months off). Here in the South Island, dairy farms are big; a small farm would be 500 cows, but most new "conversions" are in the 1000 cow plus range. Dairying here also offers an interesting path for advancement known as "share milking". Share milking brings together a farm owner and a cow owner (generally a young person just starting out) in a revenue sharing arrangement (usually 50/50) that is beneficial to both parties. The farm owner provides the farm and dairy infrastructure, and the cow owner provides the cows and staffing. In this way young people can start out with very little and build equity as they increase and improve their herds, and move from smaller farms to bigger farms. The eventual goal for a share milker is the move into farm ownership. Finally, dairying in New Zealand is absolutely booming, while back in PA dairying is holding the line at best. The South Island is quickly being a major dairy region with massive areas being converted to dairying. Neil and Bruce told us that land appropriate for dairy farming is currently selling for about $50,000 NZD/hectare ($15,000 USD/acre), cows are selling for $2,400 NZD (they were $1,200 a year ago) and you’ll wait at least 18 months to get a cow shed (milking parlor) even started.

However, the boom in dairying is not all cream. The environmental impact of all these extra cows is really starting to bite in, and nutrient management is a major concern. Even though the cows here are grazing, dealing with what comes out the back end is still a big concern. Also, much of the dairying in the South Island relies heavily on irrigation to keep the grass growing, and it’s far from certain that there’s enough water to go around. Indeed, one of the major public debates right now revolves around a proposal known as the Central Plains Irrigation Scheme. This proposed irrigation project would take water from two rivers during high flow periods, store in a massive reservoirs, and deliver it to 160,000 ha (400,000 acres) of farmland during dryer times. Sounds good on the surface, except nowhere is exactly sure that there’s enough water to do this, and the group that want to build the scheme wants to use eminent domain to acquire the farms where the reservoir will be built – essentially forcibly displacing some farmers for the benefit of other farmers.

Anyhow…enough with the dairy farming chatter. After our discussion and tour at the Lincoln dairy we headed south to visit Murray Stevens http://tvnz.co.nz/view/page/410965/414449 and family. Murray and his wife and son operate one of the largest black currant producing operations in New Zealand with about 65 hectares (150 acres)! The really incredible thing about their farm is the high level of mechanization. Pruning, harvest, spraying, and renovation have all be automated to minimize labor inputs and costs and maximize profit potential. The crop is shipped up the Nelson to be juiced and concerted and eventually exported – mainly to GlaxoSmithKline for use in Ribena. Black currants are a crop we don’t really see in the US (they are actually illegal in some states due to disease and invasiveness concerns) but seeing have this farm makes one think… The Steven’s have also done some interesting "off farm investing on the farm." They’ve built a facility on the farm to house a company called Southern Seeds and also rent the company land for their operations. Southern Seeds does off-season seed line multiplication for northern hemisphere researcher and companies.

Black Currants in the FieldSpecialty Harvesting Equipment

After the Steven’s we had lunch a lunch of "Kiwi pies" at Hillyers – a Lincoln tradition. Pies are a part of Kiwi culture and having a pie is just one of those things you have to experience to really get the full New Zealand experience. Once lunch was over we headed into town (Christchurch) to do some shopping. We actually did a divide and conquer strategy, with Mary taking part of the group in search of knitting wool, while I headed off to a farm supply store (PGG-Wrightson’s) for farm boots. We also hit Untouched World http://www.untouchedworld.com/en/uw/(the outlet of course) and Kathmandu http://www.kathmandu.co.nz/ before going back to jail.

After some quick showers and a change we headed over to Rossendale Winery http://www.rossendale.co.nz/ for a wine tasting and dinner with the proprietor Brent Rawstron. Brent has a great story to tell about taking chances and doing things out of the norm. I won’t spoil it for you, as who knows, some of you reading this blog may to come to NZ someday and want to visit with Brent in person. I’ll just tell you that’s it’s an inspirational story about what can be done when you recognize an opportunity, take some chances and put your mind to making something work. It also involves air freighting beef to Germany, vineyards, and obviously a restaurant. We had a great evening! Neil and his wife Kate joined us for dinner as well as Richard and Mary Stevens and Graham and Sue Williams. Richard is a Senior Lecturer at Lincoln in Horticultural management was absolutely critical in helping me arrange farm visits – thanks Richard! Graham and Sue besides being our "Kiwi Mum and Dad" provided the group with a great orientation to New Zealand upon our arrival.

Wine Tasting with Brent Rawstron of Rossendale

Wow, that’s a long post. Guess I got a little carried away on the dairy farm thing.

R. Matt Harsh

Rafting & Rotary (Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2008)

2008-02-27T00:28:00.005+13:00

Tuesday began with a slight chill in the air, and sense of eagerness to go rafting on the rapids. Of course this was only after everyone woke up; as many people slept a little longer than they wanted to with the travel finally taking its toll. Once we all got set it was a quick 5 minute drive up the road to meet with John Acland at the Church of the Innocents. John and his family own and farm approximately 23,000 acres, some of which borders the river which we would be rafting on later that day (his son-in-law also happens to operate the rafting business). John met us as the Church of the Innocents, which is the original church that was built on the property when his family first began farming on the south island. There was no electricity in the church, with the only light being the sun light entering through the magnificent stained-glass windows. John explained to us how his family has gone about building their operation, and the size and ownership changes of the property. He also mentioned how he and his brother began to manufacture cattle identification tags as a side business to their farming operations. Finally, John took us through the cemetery next to the church, where everyone buried there has a connection with Mount Peel Station in some way. You can click here to learn more about the original John Acland, settler from England... http://www.teara.govt.nz/1966/A/AclandJohnBartonArundel/AclandJohnBartonArundel/en

Church of the Innocents - Mount Peel Station

John Acland...station manager, farmer, father & story teller

After we all had learned about the area from John, it was time to get a more "hands on" experience...a.k.a. time to go rafting! http://www.rafts.co.nz/ We headed back up the road to gear up for the trip which meant wearing those fun wet suits again in addition to several layers of fleece like materials to keep us warm. We then piled into the van/bus and head to the river. The group then split in half with six of us in one boat and seven in the other. The guides that we had were absolutely wonderful. For the first 30 minutes or so the river was very smooth and they taught us what they call "plan A, plan B, and plan C". Plan A was learning the basic strokes and how to shift our weight in the boat. Plan B what to if someone falls out and how to help them. And plan C, as you may have guessed, was what to do if the boat flips (main thing: try not to panic….yeah right). Once we all thought we knew what we were doing we took our first class one rapid. After that everyone felt like they could take on anything. As we proceeded down the river the rapids got more intense as we all looked forward to the first class five. Everyone had the option to walk around the rapid if they chose to but since we all are thrill seekers we took on the river. Both boats made it through without any issue and couldn’t wait until the second class five. This one was fiercer than the first but since we all had become professionals we went at it full steam and made it through perfectly. After the rush of class five rapids we got to have some fun. Abby, Hannah, Maggie, Chris, and Leighton took turns jumping off some rocks into the river, and then most of us did a smaller jump and floated down the river for a while. The last leg of the trip was in the rafts again for some class 2 rapids. Oddly enough it was at this point where we had some people go overboard. Sid and Matt ended up in the river on the last rapid but made it back in with no problems...we attribute this to our guide who switched with another for the last part. Finally we made it back to the lodge where we showered and headed toward Lincoln.

The gang...

Our youngest fruitgrower & only Dad...just a wee bit to small for rafting...

Some of the awesome professional pics taken by the guys from Rangitata Rafts

Dinner capped off the evening with the Lincoln Rotary Club http://www.rotary.org.nz/. We all found it very enjoyable to interact with members of the local community, listening to their stories and telling our own as well. The main event of the evening was a presentation which Matt gave about farming in Pennsylvania compared to New Zealand, as well as chemical/mechanical peach thinning and the economic advantages of these concepts. His presentation fit perfectly since he was able to show how he is putting his degree from Lincoln to use which he completed with the help of the Rotary Foundation. Once the meeting was complete we all piled back in to short bus and headed down to the Jailhouse Accommodation http://www.jail.co.nz/ get some well need shut eye. (Don't forget to check out the Jailhouse slide show at the bottom of the blog!)

Ben Keim

Lots of driving with awesome views! (Monday, Feb. 18, 2008)

2008-02-26T23:08:00.008+13:00

After a day in Queenstown, that involved airplanes and bungy jumping, we were off for a long day of driving, but not before a good breakfast. (Thanks Liz!) From Queenstown we were headed north to a family business called Barker’s of Geraldine (http://www.barkers.co.nz/) that made basically every type of jam and jelly that you can think of…blackberry, apricot, and black currant just to name a few. They also produced concentrated juice mix and wine. It was the wine that they first made and sold, then they branched out into the jams and drink mixes. Most of their products are sold to big distributors in food service. A smaller amount is sold at their retail store in Geraldine and through local New Zealand grocery stores. Along the way to Barker’s, we stoped at Lake Tekapo…the bluest lake that I have ever seen. It is so blue because of the snow melt from Mt. Cook. Mt. Cook is New Zealand’s highest Mountain.

Mount Cook

Church of the Good Shepard & The PA Apple Queen

Farmers' tribute to all the hard working dogs of the high country & our own Lindsey Kammerer

When we were finished at Barkers we had to drive for about 30 minutes to get to the Rangitata Rafting lodge (http://www.rafts.co.nz/). The lodge was way in the backwoods of New Zealand where pretty much all we saw on the way in were hundreds of sheep and deer. Once at the lodge, our host Tussock, treated us to a New Zealand BBQ of sausage that was really an acquired taste. So with full stomachs we were off to bed to be ready to go rafting in the morning.

Rangitata Rafts River Lodge

Wes Boyer

Hannah keepin it real in the canyon...

2008-02-26T22:42:00.005+13:00

Adrenaline 101 (Sunday, Feb. 17th, 2008)

2008-02-22T18:30:00.003+13:00

Today was a free day here in this lovely little spot called Queenstown. Everyone in the group had the option to choose their own activity so we had young growers all over the map today!

New Zealand offers some of the best panoramic views in the world, which are best maximized from the sky. Early Sunday morning two different groups packed into two small planes with two very different objectives; the first being sight seeing, the second being skydiving.

The weather was perfect, with a crystal blue sky and a view for miles. One group (Ben W, Sidney, Wes, Caitlin, & Leighton) took the scenic flight over Fiordland National Park and enjoyed the scenic mountain peaks, waterfalls, and peak-top lakes. http://www.realjourneys.co.nz/ A boat-cruise through Milford Sound followed which travelled the fiord out to the Tasman Sea. With a waterfall taller than Niagara Falls, the cameras were out and people were soaking up the beauty around them.

On a slightly different note, another group (Abby, Ben K, Chris, Jen, Maggie) took the skydiving plunge at12,000 feet- and yes they are still alive to tell the tale! http://www.nzone.biz/ The skydivers were left with a bird’s eye view of glacial lakes and the Remarkables (a bit of the mountain range in the Southern Alps). The Remarkables earn their name as they are one of two mountain ranges in the world to run "true" north-south. With a 45 second free-fall and a 3-4 minute hang-glide, the jump seemed over too soon.

In the afternoon, the good times started anew and some of the same skydivers, with the addition of the PA Apple Queen, headed off to the 106m Canyon Swing through Shotover Canyon behind Queenstown (Hannah, Jen, Chris, Maggie). http://www.canyonswing.co.nz/ We showered our spectators with blood-curling screams as we fell through the canyon- and we loved every second!

And what would adventure sport be to New Zealand without bungy? With a direct fall of 134m over a wee small river flowing through a rocky valley (Lindsey) conquered the Nevis jump. http://www.bungy.co.nz/index.php/pi_pageid/29 Moral of the story, Pennsylvania farmers face and conquer their fears!

On a lighter note, the non-adrenaline seekers (Harsh family), with a few of the fiordies (Caitlin, Ben W, Sidney) headed to the Kiwi Birdlife Park and saw the rare Kiwi birds, the Kea (alpine parrot), and falcons. http://www.kiwibird.co.nz/ The Tuatara, an actual species from the dinosaur era (picture an iguana/lizard), shocked its viewers with a third eye on top of the head. A Maori cultural show rounded out the afternoon with traditional singing, dancing, and warrior cries. Good times all around today! Cheers!

Sidney and Baby Girl with the SCARY Maori. I am just about to get the "Mom..you traitor" finger point. I did mention that they were in good company...Santa got an even worse reception.

Sunday evening, after a day full of death defying events, we celebrated Hannah's American birthday with cake and classic NZ Hokey Pokey ice cream. Leftovers were finished for breakfast Monday morning.

Maggie Reid

My Birthday (Saturday, Feb. 16, 2008)

2008-02-21T22:23:00.004+13:00

This day, I must admit, was the best birthday ever!
Good people, good music, and good wine!!!

We first visited McArthur Ridge http://mcarthurridgewines.co.nz/. Alistair McKenzie offered us much to learn about more of the business side of things. They turned rabbit fields into vineyards by way of lifestyle plots. The large property was sold in 10-20 acre plots, with vineyard development taking over the majority of each plot leaving enough area to build a house. When each piece of property is sold to a lifestyle plot owner, an 80 year contract on the land is signed by the owner and the vineyard company. Basically, many private homes spaced far apart on a large vineyard managed all by the same vineyard company. It was surprising to all of us when they didn’t seem too concerned about the golf course moving in next door that will be combined with this development plan.

Next was Hinton’s Pack House http://www.hinton.co.nz/ in Alexandra. Leighton and the Lott girls felt at home and were able to compare and learn from Nigel. Something that really caught my eye was the bins that he created and was using. The side of the bin lifted like a cat door with a padded latch on the inside for a gentle release of the fruit on to the graders. We then did a quick visit with his son Howie, who has a vineyard in addition to his orchards. His family seems to have many of the same problems we do back in the states…it left us with much to talk about. He agreed to meet up with us at the BBQ that night.

The amazing bins...

Visiting with Howie Hinton in the Orchard

We met Wayne, Andrea, and Nicholas (who is only 10 minutes older than Chesley) McIntosh for a spectacular lunch at the Packing Shed, which was an old "pack house" that had been renovated into a gallery and restaurant. The people were so kind here that they even brought me a little dessert after the meal. We then toured Wayne’s family’s fabulous orchards and pack house. Honestly, I want to live there. The cherries he grew were huge!! Our cherries would only be poor to mediocre by his sizing standards. During the winter season, he has livestock "mow" his orchards.

Then it was on to a BBQ, NZ style, at Wayne’s parents’ home. We enjoyed "soft" sausages, burgers with eggs, chicken on a stick and Hinton’s wine. It was fabulous company. We were also able to enjoy some tunes provided by two Argentinean workers and of course, Ben Wenk. We all joined in the singing fun on the hour-long car ride to Queenstown. Matt even had a little rap for us. Thanks for the best birthday ever!!! (PS – I got to celebrate for two days.)

Chesley & Nicholas opted for the warm bath instead of the jam session...

Hannah Lott

We have a land line...

2008-02-19T21:49:00.004+13:00

Still trying to sort out internet...back on "DEFAULT" at the moment...very slow and obviously a local’s personal network. Anywho, we do have a phone in our lodge that you can dial in on. Everyone has been instructed to answer the phone but all of us are coming and going so it may be kind of hit or miss. Here is the number:

011-64-3-442-8273 ext. 216 (Unit R)

We have taken over one of many lodges on site so if anyone answers it will be someone from the group. Can't tell you when a good time to call would be...check the clocks to the right for our local time. We are essentially 6 hours behind you. And, if you don't have an international calling plan you may want to run out and pick up a calling card. Best location to do so...a Mexican Tienda...ask for a "TARJETA." Friends would call us all the time when we lived in Christchurch using those things...some would allow and hour of talk time for every $1!!! We should be here until 9am tomorrow or so. And, once we get a secure high speed connection you can expect a massive onslaught of pics, updates, etc.

Cheers, Mary

A Quick HELLO...

2008-02-17T23:15:00.004+13:00

It is about 2am on Saturday night...why not "give it a go?" Result...a slow, unsecured wireless connection that looks like it could kick me off at any moment. That being said, I just wanted to take a few moments to say hello and to let you know that everyone continues to have a fabulous time. Whether on farms, pitching in with meal prep, chatting late into the evening, or riding around in the vans (just to name a few) the group has really found its groove. Everyone has settled into this thing called travel with ease!

Our farm visits over the last few days have been absolutely fabulous (more info to follow). We arrived late this evening in Queenstown and tomorrow everyone is scheduled to scatter to participate in all kinds of extreme sports...including: sky diving, bungy jumping, rock climbing, and the local canyon swing. Also, a group of 5 will fly at 8am tomorrow to Milford Sound. It should be a spectacular flight over and back and the fiords are ALWAYS breathtaking.

Okay...fading fast and we all know that Chesley is not really keen on this whole thing called sleeping in so I had better run. I believe that the majority of posts regarding our last week's travels just need to be uploaded...the group has been trying to blog regardless is they have a way to get it up or not. Will plan to check with them tomorrow and see what we can do...no promises. Happy Saturday (for you); Sunday for those here.

Cheers, Mary

Central Otago... (Friday, Feb. 15th)

2008-02-17T23:12:00.004+13:00

We awoke Friday to find ol’ Franz Josef had followed us in spirit, with the coldest morning yet and fresh snowfall on the Pisa Mountain range. Our first stop of the day was Molyneux. This farm has created a niche market by becoming the latest-bearing cherry exporter in the world, supplying the Asian market right around the New Year. The evolution of their business has evolved from exporting beautiful, tasteless nectarines to Taiwan (where they were mainly placed on their ancestors’ graves) to providing crunchy 26 mm+ cherries to much of Asia (where they are actually consumed). These cherries are grown under rain cover and bird netting, sorted and packed on site, and air freighted within days of harvesting. Attention Adams County packing houses: we hung out briefly with Molyneux’s most valuable employee, a long white curtain between the sorters and quality control people so you never know when you’re being scrutinized. We also tried an amazingly tasty nectarine called Genevieve, which would come in around September for us. You can check out some Molyneux's products available through Orchard Fresh at: http://www.orchardfresh.co.nz/

After lunch in Cromwell, it was off to Mt. Difficulty http://www.mountdifficulty.co.nz/ where Matt Dicey talked us through the progression of their operation from co-op to family owned business with a father-son winemaker/grape grower team. This is one of the Central Otago wineries which have enjoyed world-wide attention since the release of the movie Sideways. Matt made us feel right at home by recounting friendly explosions between him and his father which leave their employees wringing their hands and saying, "There goes the company!" But everyone’s ok at the end of the day and the wine gets made.

The Mount Difficulty Cafe (with winemaking facilities below)

Mount Difficulty Vines

Our last stop of the day was the Winehouse http://www.highplains.co.nz/index.php/ps_pagename/winehouse_home , next door to A. J. Hackett’s http://ajhackett.com/nz bungy operation. Our host Timbo provided the most comprehensive tasting yet and possibly the best (definitely the most) wine I had on our trip. He explained the different taste receptors of the tongue and described the most basic shape a wine should make in your mouth as a triangle, better wines as squares, and the best wines as giving a 360 degree circle mouth feel. He also gave great marketing advice about the marriage of his winery and the tourist attraction next door. Maggie had a hard time sitting still every time Timbo said bungy, and before the tasting was over she raced across the garden and talked her way into the last jump slot of the day. To my horror and the delight of a busload of Chinese tourist, my sister threw herself off a bridge like a champ, grinning the whole time. We’re going to work on loading the videos…

Caitlin Reed

Valentine's Day (2-14-08)

2008-02-17T23:05:00.004+13:00

Valentine’s Day: 5:30am… rain is beating on the roof, it was down-pouring and time to set off for the Franz Josef Glacier. Everyone rolled out of bed, loaded up the trailer and piled in the short bus traipsing in the rain; some in the clothes they slept in, some with teeth brushed (some without), some still asleep, and many of the crew sick. There was a two hour drive ahead of us and poor Matt had to stay awake. For those of you who like to look at maps, Hokitika to South Westland.

We arrive at the check in point for Franz Josef in no time (sleeping the whole way really helps). And, it was still down-pouring!! By the way, glacier tours are rain or shine. After finding a place to park and running to the check-in through the sheets of rain, we were all there. Everyone got geared up in the Gore-tex that was supplied (thank god) and we were on the bus ready to go up to Franz Josef.

Pictures are lacking due to the down pour but we hiked up through the rain forest to the glacier. It was fascinating! Rain forest with hundreds of waterfalls beside a massive chunk of ice!! We were more than soaked but super excited. Finally, we got to the ice, put on our crampons and started up. We had some great guides: Johnny, Lucas, Carlos. We were split in groups but all had a great time. Finally on the way back down the ice, the sun started to peak through. Of course, after we are off the ice, we can take pictures. Oh well!

A picture on the glacier.During the time on the ice and in the rain, Maggie was a genius in finding out that Johnny was from Delaware. Not only close from home, but he majored in horticulture at University of Delaware. Now, lets talk about SMALL WORLD!!! After returning to the main place and gear was off, we all continued to talk to Johnny. Matt invited him to lunch and before we knew it, there was a jam session (thanks to the talented Ben Wenk and Johnny’s guitars) in the sunny parking lot!! The sun came out for the amazing lunch break and soon started to rain after we loaded up and said good bye to Johnny. Johnny is excited about coming to visit Gettysburg for the Bluegrass Festival and hanging out with YGA. He is even interested in coming to work in wonderful Adams County. Johnny grew up on a potato farm and you never know, he could end up working on Potato Road.

The day ended after a lot more drying… I mean driving. We drove into the high country, by lake Wanaka, and into the Southern Alps.

Snow capped Southern Alps

We stayed in Albert Town for the night, had homemade potato soup (thanks to Mary and Liz), and crashed thereafter. That night it rained but snowed on the mountaintops.

Absolutely gorgeous.

Abby Lott

Wednesday 2-13-08

2008-02-17T13:00:00.003+13:00

This day began in the morning at Motueka. I was sad to leave this most beautiful town though it seems that each new place offers some new and original cast of natural beauty. Words really cannot describe the beauty of this country, though one general observation is that it is more tropical than most people imagine. In my mind I was picturing something resembling the UK with sheep galore, chilly winds and hilly greenscapes. But the sights and smells really have more in common with the Caribbean. Lots of fruit and bright, pungent trees and flowers. Though as I write this blog, recalling the events of a few days past, I am looking at snow-capped mountains out the window. It’s like some kind of wonderland.

Anyway, in the morning we stopped at Waimaea nurseries to talk about new developments in nursery work. We learned a great deal more about the club programs in NZ and how they’ve basically saved the industry here since Enza regrouped. The big club varieties here are Jazz and Envy which are both post pink lady varieties with very little potential in the northeast, even that we could get a license which we probably could not. Kiku is growing in popularity and Gala and Braeburn still have niche potential as a carryover from the old days. But, in general, the markets are dominated by club varieties with a mix of high-flavor European varieties like Cox and Tentation. As far as rootstocks go, there is very little mention of anything other than M9. One interesting bit of information is that nobody seems to care much about Honeycrisp, which is called Honey Crunch here and in Europe. The nurseryman we spoke to said that nobody in NZ wanted to deal with the hassle of Honeycrisp when they are seeing equal and higher success with Jazz and Envy which are easier to grow. We all had a good laugh about that one.

Discussions and tastings in the Orchard

Honeycrisp

A well feathered and balanced tree.

Most of the rest of the day was spent driving the long trek down to Hokitika. Though we did stop in the evening to see the “pancake rocks” somewhere near Punakaiki. The pancake rocks are formations of sedimentary rocks worn away by millennia of violent surf to make what looks like big stacks of pancakes. And there are some pretty rad blowholes there too. Check out the pictures…

In Hokitika we ate fish and chips and drank speights. A nice ending to a nice day.

Leighton Rice

Comments Please

2008-02-17T02:19:00.002+13:00

Everything is going well and we are very busy. Please leave comments so we know who all is keeping track of our progress around the Island. Let us know if there is anything you would like to know. We will do our best to accomadate all requests. More to come with better internet access.

It’s Tree Fruit Time (Tuesday 2-12-08)

2008-02-13T08:04:00.001+13:00

Tuesday morning began with an early morning trip to the Motueka station of New Zealand’s HortResearch (http://www.hortresearch.co.nz/) and a rendezvous with researcher John Palmer (who asked we pass greetings on to PSU’s Dr. Rob Cressweller, if you’re reading along). He spoke of his experiences in horticulture as it began as a researcher in England all the way through to the present, including all of the changes in marketing, government funding, and all the spaces in between.

We tried a few of their new, delicious trial kiwi berry varieties and scampered off to Inglis Horticulture and farm manager Richard Inglis. Richard’s family were once large scale hops suppliers to Coors and quickly transitioned his family’s farm to high density apple production, including the use of shade/hail netting. To address Justin’s question, Richard was experimenting with a number of different netting structures and colors with some cooperation with John Palmer. The red shade is believed to decrease the UV radiation – his employees like working there because they don’t sunburn. He hasn’t learned anything definitive about which color (red, black, or white) provides the most benefits, but he’s sure that all of them help with sunburn, calming the strong winds of the Motueka area, reducing irrigation inputs and, most importantly, assuring a crop in spite of vicious hailstorms and along with it, says Richard, shelf space for his apples. He did mention that he’s settled on a white netting – a “teepee” shape that were sown between the rows. Richard used self-built platforms and underwent a difficult farm transition and was very willing to share his experience. It was a very impressive cropping system with a five wire trellis yielding a full twelve feet of vertical growth and good cropping on fourth and (sometimes) third leaf trees! His varieties were nearly all club varieties, the majority being Jazz. His new plantings of Envy excite him – he believes it’s a better apple than Jazz.

Netting used to prevent frost, hail, reduce wind, spary drift, birds, and transpirtation rates.

Third leaf Jazz
Second leaf Four leaf More netting
Landscaped New Zealand Orchards
Kiwi Fruit
Platform made out of a hydroladder
Valima Orchards was our next stop where Richard Hoddy showed us around his high density orchards. Mechanization and Tentation were the theme here as I was given the opportunity to drive one of Richard’s Italian-made, solar powered electric platforms. Three different Italian-made harvest assistance machines had just arrived from the pier in Nelson a few days before and our group along with the Hoddys were treated to a demonstration by representatives of the Italian manufacturing company who sold them. Tentation (part of France’s breeding program, Delbush in the states?) is a variety he’s keen on – a Golden Delicious type with very high brix, but great acidity for balance. It’s a club variety he markets through Yummy, of which he is a stakeholder. The second half of the tour was conducted by his son Tristan providing us a good opportunity to speak with both generations and discuss his role and succession planning.

Ben W. on a electric platform

No charging needed with the addition of a solar panel.
Gala 2 weeks until harvest
Picking Assist Platform. A semi-automatic picking machine from Italy. Arrived Yesterday!!
Light reflection for better color. New Zealand Beauty
All and all, we certainly made the most of our first fruit tree tours and our access to these very knowledgeable, savvy, friendly growers!

New Zealand Country Side

Ben Wenk

Happy Monday!!! (2-11-08)

2008-02-13T07:41:00.003+13:00

Early Monday morning we were in Marlborough and had the opportunity to meet with Andrew Naylor who works for Montana Wineries (owned by Pernod Ricard, an international drink company). He met us at an overlook of one of their vineyards, Brancott Vineyards, which was an amazing site (Brancott is Montana’s wine brand in the US) . The Marlborough region kicked off its vineyard production in 1972-73, so it’s still a relatively young area for grapes. Andrew joined the company in 1995 and it doubled in size in the next 5 years. So the grape boom is relatively recent. Montana owns 1800 hectares of corporate fruit and 1500 hectares of contracted fruit in the Marlborough region (which is about 4000 acres total). They grow about 65-70% Sauvignon Blanc - Pinot, Chardonnay and Riesling make up the rest. We discussed land cost, labor and government programs and the associated cost of compliance. In USD it would be about $50,000/acre for raw land, $12,000-15,000/acre to establish vineyards (this does not include cost of frost protection/wind machines). Operating cost is around $3000/acre, 80% of which is tied to labor. They need about 500 people to complete the different tasks throughout the year but employee turnover is so bad that they end up hiring 800-900 different workers. Currently about 70% of their labor comes from NZ (the other 30% is mostly Europeans, Czechs and Yugoslavians). However the NZ government established a program relatively recently called Recognized Seasonal Employee (RSE) where they are encouraging all off-shore labor to come from the Pacific Islands. This is the first farm we heard about this program, but we have heard several growers mention it since. So it seems cost of compliance is going to be somewhat of an issue. They will have to pay for transport and housing as well as provide pastoral care. Andrew is a very busy man and I think we were fortunate to steal an hour or so of his time.

Later that morning we visited with Sue at Prenzel’s Distillery where we learned the history of their company and took part in some tastings. It is the largest distillery in NZ and they have nine storefronts across the country (3 run by them and 6 franchised stores as well). They currently have the #1 gin in the world, but they also carry additional value-added products including oils/vinegarettes, ice cream toppings and flavored salts that have done very well for them. One of the most interesting products was a honey liqueur, often used in tandem with hot tea when feeling under the weather. I definitely went ahead and purchased some of that. I imagine it will be my favorite new remedy.

Before heading to Motueka we stopped by Hawkesbury Road, which is clothing company with a heavy focus on Merino wool. Paula (Polly), the owner, shared the history of her family and background. She and her three sisters grew up in the NZ high country and her family farmed sheep. She actually thought that she would spend her life up there, but after her parents sent her to university she developed a passion for quality merino wool clothing. It was interesting to hear her success story and see how she was able to maintain her ties to the agriculture component. The words of advice she had for us was to maintain high quality and keep it simple – keep it smart. Don’t try to get bigger than you are – quality, quality, quality…

After we left some American dollars behind at Hawkesbury Road we headed on to Motueka. Here we prepared a pasta/sausage dinner complete with a brownie dessert and NZ favorite, hokey pokey ice cream. It was delicious and appreciated by all. We were soon all in bed to rest up for another full day of activity.

Jen Snavely

Sidney Kuhn reporting from NZ...

2008-02-10T23:37:00.001+13:00

Saturday, February 9, 2008

Christchurch to Waipara Valley

After a filling lunch at Graham and Sue’s, the group headed north to the Waipara Valley and wine country. Our first stop: Sherwood Estate Winery, owned and operated by Dayne Sherwood and his family for 25 years. The winery has 120 acres of vineyards in the Waipara Valley and 100 acres of vineyards in the Marlborough region. The grapes are grown on a standard NZ block trellis, mainly Pinot Noir and Riesling with some Sauvignon Blanc. 90% of the 50,000 to 60,000 cases of wine produced a year (and bottled on site) are exported to 24 countries, namely the US United Kingdom, and Australia. The group was impressed by the winery’s commitment to sustainability, including using biological controls, composting the grape skins for fertilizer, recycling the greywater from wine production to water gardens, with future plans to collect rainwater from the winery’s roof. Thanks to Dayne for the delectable wine tasting and taking the time for visiting with our group on your day off!

http://www.sherwood.co.nz/

Waipara Valley to Kaikoura

After leaving the Waipara Valley, we headed north through the hills and hairpin turns in a van with a trailer hitched, going around hair-pin turns (Keepin’ it real!) to Kaikoura. As we descended the last hill we broke through a fog to catch our first view of the Pacific Ocean coast. White foamy waves rose up to bash against the jagged rock formations that looked like so many beached whales along the coast. The largest strings of kelp I have ever seen beat their yellow-green tentacles against the rocks. On to our first overnight stay in a Holiday Park in Kaikoura, and a fish and chips dinner (a true Kiwi meal). And finally, the slumber that we had all kept at bay throughout the afternoon and evening overcame us.

Sunday, February 10, 2008

Kaikoura

Up early for our “Dolphin Encounter”. Headed out about 20 minutes from shore in a small boat clad in our wetsuits, flippers and snorkels and jumped into a thrilling adventure swimming with Dusky Dolphins. After becoming accustomed to the snorkel (many of us were first-timers), we sang to and swam circles with our new gray flippered friends. Wenk had the ultimate experience when he caught a glimpse of some “belly on belly” action! Only a few casualties were conquered by the sea sickness. After enjoying a photo shoot of a hundred or so dolphins, who demonstrated their characteristic somersault tricks, we headed back to shore. A quick picnic lunch reenergized the group. We also had a laugh at the expense of one strange blue-headed seagull who was ostracized by his peers.

Kaikoura to Blenheim

Heading north from Kaikoura we made a side trip to Lavendyl Farm, a vineyard and lavender farm operation. We enjoyed learning about the different types of lavender, how owner Mike Morris retrofitted a Japanese tea picker to help mechanize the lavender harvest, and the process of distilling the lavender into oil and water.

Other side trips included a hike to a stunning waterfall against a moss-covered cliff surrounded by giant tree ferns and watching baby fur seals frolic among the rocks and tidal pools. After a fabulous dinner (including stunning Chris Reid specialty salads) and equally fabulous conversation, we prepared for the adventures awaiting our next day in New Zealand.

We Made It!!!! (most of us) (just kidding)

2008-02-09T11:14:00.001+13:00

The group is in a place near Christchurch on the South Island of New Zealand in the beautiful country residence of Graham and Sue Williams, the gracious hosts of today's YGA lunch and the former host 'mum' and 'ded' for Matt and Mary's life here a few years ago. We are all a bit tired and trying to take in a lot of things at once but first impressions are favorable - high 60s with a warm, gentle breeze - Beautiful flowers, friendly people, mountains, fields, rivers. I'll leave the rest of the description to my more poetic co-blogger Caitlin.

btw: the current time here is ~ 11:45 am on Feb. 9. I'll leave it up to you to figure out the time difference because I'm too exhausted.

The day after our first and only night in San Francisco we had breakfast and headed out across the Golden Gate Bridge towards Muir Woods National Forest which is maybe the best place to get acquianted with the california redwood and sequoia trees. it was more chilly than most people expected and there wasn't a lot of sunlight coming down through the 100 ft. canopy. But we were too distracted by the natural beauty to notice. Truly an experience beyond words. Just picture a tree that could be surrounded by no fewer than a dozen people arm to arm!

In the afternoon we drove to Sausalito and had a picnic lunch down on the bay amidst a panaromic view of the Golden Gate as well as all of San Fran and Berkeley and Oakland in the distance. The Bay area is really unique among Urban areas in the U.S. in that it is very hilly and has plainview of other metropolitan areas from almost any point therein. It has a very mediterranean feel and seems to be the only place in the U.S. where you are going to find a really good vegetarian sandwich with avocadoes and sprouts and fresh lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, cheese. Anyway, Sausalito is as idyllic a place to live as I can imagine and we had some good entertainment flipping through some local real estate magazines on the way back to the car.

From there it was back to the hotel and on to the airport for a pleasant 12+ hour jaunt on an over-booked 777. In the words of Mary's Mom, "We survived." And caught our connecting flight from Auckland to Christchurch just as the sun rose (on what some suspect to have been the "wrong horizon"), tea was served, and the impressive grid of the North Island stretched out from the mountains to the water.

Hours later, we're safe and sound and enjoying enormous hospitality, so I'm going to grab my first non-airline food in days. Later today we'll take a winery tour and tomorrow morning we swim with the dolphins.

Virgin America to San Francisco

2008-02-07T18:32:00.000+13:00

All went well with the flight. Virgin America provided many features not common to most planes. First, everyone had a personal 9-inch screen on the seat in front of him or her. This screen was each person’s portal for personalized entertainment for the 6-hour flight. A unique feature was the option to chat seat to seat (something similar to instant messaging). Our youngest traveler (Chesley) was a dream and took to flying very well. Some of the growers even were able to catch up with some of their market customers in Dulles and on the plane. This just proves how small the world really is. We arrived in San Francisco at 11:00am local time (2:00pm EST) ready for new surroundings and the chance to explore.

After a quick stop to the hotel we rounded up our three Ford Tauruses and headed to Darby Dan Sandwich Co., thanks to a fantastic recommendation from our Hilton Homewood Suites Hotel. Then we were off to Fisherman’s Wharf. With beautiful weather and no fog, we were able to take wonderful pictures of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. To those of us who have never been here before it was amazing to see the famous San Francisco hills and the trolley cars.

Today was a great start to what is definitely going to be an incredible trip. We are all looking forward to visiting the redwoods and moving on to New Zealand tomorrow evening.

The Infamous Alcatraz

The Local Residents

Trolley Car Town

Classic Frisco

*This is the first of many posts written by YGA Down Under tour members. Tonight, Lindsey Kammerer was gracious enough to push off sleep for just a wee bit longer so that you, our readers, could travel vicariously to San Francisco. Way to step up Lindsey!!! Personally, I can hardly keep my eyes open!

Be Here By Morning

2008-02-07T15:17:00.000+13:00

This is not the NORM!!!

2008-02-06T19:49:00.000+13:00

It is about 5am and soon we will be scurrying through the free breakfast spread downstairs and then off to the airport on the 6am shuttle. Thank goodness everyone packed light...11 adults, 1 baby and tons of luggage could have made for an ugly start to the day for a 12 passenger shuttle bus driver. The hotel...SCORE! Very corporate yet swanky. The rooms we landed on Priceline ($55/each) have 2 double beds and then a big corner sofa in the living/sitting area. The sofa is actually a sofa bed...hopefully those that were 3 to a room last night figured that one out? There is also this gigantic flat screen TV that can be angled into the bedroom or sitting room, a wet bar, work station, vanity... I only mention this because I warned those that I saw last night that this is NOT representative of our accommodation for the rest of the trip. That being said, it is always nice to get great rooms at great rates. Thanks for having us Hyatt Place! Will try to post a few pics later...if blogger cooperates that is. Um...not sure if it is blogger or the blog operator. On that note, were off. Happy Wednesday!

Why New Zealand?

2008-02-04T14:14:00.000+13:00

As an undergrad, I can remember Matt saying, "When I go to New Zealand..."

"Aren't there more sheep in New Zealand then there are people?" I would ask.

"Yeah, 10 times as many...doesn't that sound great?" he would say.

And then reality set in...we graduated, and after a 4 month jaunt through Europe we settled into an adult world. I took a job with Fairfax County Public Schools and Matt went to work fulltime on the family farm. We married 4th of July weekend of the following year (1998), I moved to Smithsburg (city mouse comes to the country) and I traded one school system for another. Together, Matt and I traveled back and forth to Northern Virginia selling produce at community Farmers' Markets and I filled in when needed at the family operation. I went back to grad school, we waited tables during the evenings and weekends in the off season, and time flew by. But, Matt would still say, "When I (now we) go to New Zealand..."

I don't think we knew how we would go. I don't think we knew when we would go. We just knew deep down that we WOULD go. And we did! In 2002 we left on an adventure that would change our lives. Matt had been accepted to the graduate program at Lincoln University, outside of Christchurch on the South Island, and he had secured a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship to cover all of the expenses. So, with 2 suitcases each, we flew out of winter and into summer to start the journey of a lifetime.

We were instantly welcomed by Rotarians from the Lincoln Club...including our "Kiwi Mum & Dad," Graham & Sue Williams, who you will meet on our first day in NZ. I am afraid that they are anxiously awaiting the arrival of their grandbaby so you will be slightly down on the list but you will still feel loved...promise! We found a flat downtown, furnished it with lended/borrowed/bartered items and got busy trying to become "Kiwis" ourselves.

So, what can I tell you about New Zealand? Hum...it is truly remote (the South Island of New Zealand is more sparsely populated than the Outback of Australia), it is an agriculturally based society where farmers and entrepreneurs are one in the same, it honestly looks like it does in the movies (If you have seen Lord of the Rings then you have seen the South Island), the landscape is dramatic (black sand beaches, hot springs, glaciers, rainforest, etc.), and last, but certainly not least, the people are FANTASTIC...honest, genuine, hard workers, friendly...just flat out lovely! You'll see firsthand soon enough!

Our time down under changed our approach to agriculture. It inspired us to think outside of the box, and it made us acutely aware of the fact that we are situated in a market (Baltimore/Washington DC) that much of the rest of the world would love to be in. We came home renewed and with a desire to share our new found excitement with others. This trip is the capstone of "what we learned."

We can't wait to see what touches you. What new ideas you might have as the result of a farm visit or a late night conversation. What you might decide is important or what is weighing you (or your family operation) down. So, that is why New Zealand…only 4 days to go!!!