Kia Ora and Bula Vinaka!
I wanted to drop everyone a quick note to let you know what you can expect post-trip.
The post-trek party will be Sunday, January 25, 2009 at 4pm, St. Paul Lutheran Church, 111 W. Las Palmas Drive (@ Harbor bl) in Fullerton. RSVPs are required.
First, I will be putting together a DVD with all the photos I have to give to all participants. Due to the amount of time necessary to copy the dvds, anyone who wants to contribute their photos to be included (I'll put in as many as fit), I'll need them by January 11. So if you can put them on a cd, dvd or usb device and get them to me, I'll make sure they are included to share with all. Included will be the photos that were bought from the venues for zorb and blackwater rafting. I am particularly interested in photos from those who had waterproof cameras to use on some of our more wet activities. I took several movies, such as the kids playing in the waterfall on Dec. 30, one of the Fiji dances, and the zorb coming down the hill, all of which will be included. If anyone would care to send me a movie of me doing the Haka, I would appreciate it.
The Dvds will *not* be mailed to the local participants. They will be available to be picked up at the January 25 party. If no one from your family is able to attend, we'll need to make separate arrangements for shipping and covering the costs.
I encourage everyone to bring their "stuff" to the party January 25. I think it would be really nice to share with everyone and all the families the things that people were able to pick up, such as Max Krochman's Maori sword or Dick Cuciti's painting.
We will be providing food at the party, so we need a fairly good count of how many will be there. Families are invited to attend, but we ask you to limit the numbers to no more than four persons with each participant, the facility is only so big :-). Please send RSVPs to me by January 17.
I will also put together a powerpoint presentation of the outing that will be presented at the party and included on the DVD. I welcome any contributions along those lines as well.
Again, please RSVP your attendance at the party. It is a great chance to see all your new friends one last time.
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
We are all home, safe and sound
Wow! what a ride. Hard to believe it is over. Buy now most of you have had a chance to "debrief" your kids about this amazing journey.
Thanks to all of you for sharing this experience with me. I also wanted to let those of you who came up to me at the airport to thank me for putting this together that I truly appreciated the gesture.
On to the next adventure.
We have a party january 25 to celebrate our return. I encourage each of the participants to bring the "stuff" they acquired so that we can all share the memories and the familiy members can see the variety of things that caught the eye.
I will also have dvd's of my photos and any others sent to me. That will include the Zorb and blackwater photos that were purchased from the vendors. These DVD's will NOT be mailed to the local participants, they will need to either pick them up at the party or make arrangements to pay for shipping. If anyone has photos to submit, post them to me (my address is on the luggage tags) and I'll include as many as will fit.
It's been a blast, and now I'll be getting ready for the next adventure.
Thanks to all of you for sharing this experience with me. I also wanted to let those of you who came up to me at the airport to thank me for putting this together that I truly appreciated the gesture.
On to the next adventure.
We have a party january 25 to celebrate our return. I encourage each of the participants to bring the "stuff" they acquired so that we can all share the memories and the familiy members can see the variety of things that caught the eye.
I will also have dvd's of my photos and any others sent to me. That will include the Zorb and blackwater photos that were purchased from the vendors. These DVD's will NOT be mailed to the local participants, they will need to either pick them up at the party or make arrangements to pay for shipping. If anyone has photos to submit, post them to me (my address is on the luggage tags) and I'll include as many as will fit.
It's been a blast, and now I'll be getting ready for the next adventure.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Bula Vinaka from Fiji!
What a day we have had in Fiji!
This morning we took an "Eco Tour" that took us first to a hot mud pool where everyone got covered in mud. Then a natural hot spring to wash off.
We followed that with about a 1.5 mile hike to an amazing waterfall where the kids got into the falls and we took some awesome photos.
Following the waterfall, we went in to Fiji village where we were served lunch on a leaf with lots of fresh picked fruit and some amazing stuff.
Then, the chief of the village led us in a Kava ceremony (tastes like celery juice)
following this, we had a group of dancers perform for us some really great numbers.
We returned to our hostel at 3:30 where those who wanted to can take showers while we wait for dinner at 5pm then our bus to the airport at 6:30.
This email is a bit of a time travel since it is 4:15pm here and we arrive in LAX three hours in the past.
Anyway, everyone had a great time today and it proved an ideal finish for our visit. Between Mana and the Fiji village visit, our stay in Fiji was easily as exciting and interesting as the New Zealand visit.
We will see you all VERY SOON and look forward to sharing the stories from this amazing trip!
Cheers from Fiji
Don
This morning we took an "Eco Tour" that took us first to a hot mud pool where everyone got covered in mud. Then a natural hot spring to wash off.
We followed that with about a 1.5 mile hike to an amazing waterfall where the kids got into the falls and we took some awesome photos.
Following the waterfall, we went in to Fiji village where we were served lunch on a leaf with lots of fresh picked fruit and some amazing stuff.
Then, the chief of the village led us in a Kava ceremony (tastes like celery juice)
following this, we had a group of dancers perform for us some really great numbers.
We returned to our hostel at 3:30 where those who wanted to can take showers while we wait for dinner at 5pm then our bus to the airport at 6:30.
This email is a bit of a time travel since it is 4:15pm here and we arrive in LAX three hours in the past.
Anyway, everyone had a great time today and it proved an ideal finish for our visit. Between Mana and the Fiji village visit, our stay in Fiji was easily as exciting and interesting as the New Zealand visit.
We will see you all VERY SOON and look forward to sharing the stories from this amazing trip!
Cheers from Fiji
Don
Arrive LAX at 1:05pm on Tuesday, Dec. 30
(posted by webmaster)Fiji is 20 hours ahead of Pacific time. To calculate, subtract 4 hours from our current time but add a day. So, at 10:00am Monday in California it is 6:00am Tuesday in Fiji.
Air Pacific Flight #810 departs Nadi Airport at 10:50pm (22:50) on Tuesday, December 30 (Fiji time) and arrives at LAX Airport at 1:05pm on Tuesday, December 30 (Pacific time).
Tuesday, Dec. 30 Fiji itinerary:
0700 Continental Breakfast
Spend day at beach, explore Nadi, play golf or take a day tour
1200 Lunch in Nadi
1800 Supper in Nadi
1900 Bus from Hostel to Nadi Airport
2000 Check-in Nadi airport
2250 Air Pacific Flight 810 departs
1305 (1:05pm) Arrive LAX - Arriving "before" they departed!
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Mana Island Dec 29
It is December 29. Our activity is to take a 1.5 hour boat ride out to mana island. It is a huge resort island in the Manaluca chain. we have clear blue skies, warm water, great snorkeling, lots of coral and reef life. the kids are scattered to the four winds as they pursue their own choice of activities. They can snorkel, sail a hobie cat, kayak, swim, get some sun or whatever.
I am somewhat disappointed that Jase and Max Green were very unhappy they could not sit all day in our hotel (they wouldn't be able to go anywhere, there is nothing nearby) and had to come with us to a tropical paradise instead. However, as no adult was willing to stay with them, they were reluctantly dragged along where they are now out in the surf enjoying themselves in spite of themselves. Funny how that happens.
The sea is perfectly calm, with surf less than a half inch. there was no swell on the boat trip to our island getaway either. The resort here on Mana is amazing. They have individual Bure's for guests and all sorts of waterfront activities, as well as volleyball, tennis and a game room (we had a bunch of kids who decided the gameroom was more fun than being on the beach of a tropical paradise. Oh well, you can't always get them to see what is in front of them. Anyway, the boat ride out was awesome, the resort is amazing and the water is terrific. We had a great lunch of mongolian bbq and are enjoying all that mana has to offer.
Our boat back to Nadi is at 4:25, and we will have a buffet dinner at our hotel when we get back. Tomorrow we plan to go on an eco tour to some mud pools (get really dirty), wash off in a waterfall and visit a fiji village where we have kava. Then our golfers plan to waste the rest of their afternoon before we have a 5pm dinner followed by the bus to the airport and our return.
after everyone was so tearful ovr leaving new zealand, the trip out to mana island, and the fire dancers last night seem to have driven that out of their minds. The running joke is I've lost my passport, I guess I'll have to stay here.
See you all soon!
Bula Vinaka!
don
I am somewhat disappointed that Jase and Max Green were very unhappy they could not sit all day in our hotel (they wouldn't be able to go anywhere, there is nothing nearby) and had to come with us to a tropical paradise instead. However, as no adult was willing to stay with them, they were reluctantly dragged along where they are now out in the surf enjoying themselves in spite of themselves. Funny how that happens.
The sea is perfectly calm, with surf less than a half inch. there was no swell on the boat trip to our island getaway either. The resort here on Mana is amazing. They have individual Bure's for guests and all sorts of waterfront activities, as well as volleyball, tennis and a game room (we had a bunch of kids who decided the gameroom was more fun than being on the beach of a tropical paradise. Oh well, you can't always get them to see what is in front of them. Anyway, the boat ride out was awesome, the resort is amazing and the water is terrific. We had a great lunch of mongolian bbq and are enjoying all that mana has to offer.
Our boat back to Nadi is at 4:25, and we will have a buffet dinner at our hotel when we get back. Tomorrow we plan to go on an eco tour to some mud pools (get really dirty), wash off in a waterfall and visit a fiji village where we have kava. Then our golfers plan to waste the rest of their afternoon before we have a 5pm dinner followed by the bus to the airport and our return.
after everyone was so tearful ovr leaving new zealand, the trip out to mana island, and the fire dancers last night seem to have driven that out of their minds. The running joke is I've lost my passport, I guess I'll have to stay here.
See you all soon!
Bula Vinaka!
don
Mana island, fiji
We arrived in Fiji one hour late. there was a bit of mixup on our accommodations. I had negotiated with several, and one that i did not accept thought we had reserved with them. so they met us at the airport with lei's and drove some of us to nadi bay resort. However, I had settled on horizon beach resort because it was less expensive and right on the beach. Anyway, we got all sorted out and into our accommodations. That evening, they had a fire dance show, a sort of luau with dancing women and men, and twirling fire torches, etc. It was quite impressive. Because our group tends to scatter to the four winds every chance they get, some of our group did not find out about the show and missed it. As we moved dinner to 9pm from our earlier planned 8:30 to match the finish of the show, that dozen or so had gathered at 8;30 and wondered where the rest of us were.
However, dinner was good and we all settled in. The weather is perfect. Sure, it is hot and humid, but it is clear and sunny and the pacific here is warm, calm and salty :-) It is ***SO*** blue! We are hving a great time.
More to follow
However, dinner was good and we all settled in. The weather is perfect. Sure, it is hot and humid, but it is clear and sunny and the pacific here is warm, calm and salty :-) It is ***SO*** blue! We are hving a great time.
More to follow
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Farewell New Zealand
We have said farewell to our awesome bus driver glen and our NZ scout guide Graham and are waiting for the flight to Nadi (late). We had a great finish, everyone spent lots of money, Alex Krochman got a Maori sword and all are well and happy.
We are about to board, and I need to go, but I wanted to make a quick update.
Our last two days have been awesome. After we got to Mt. Moaunganui we met with a "bunch" of new zealand scouts. We all have standing invitations to come back and places to stay. Even our bus driver Glen offered us a place to stay if we come back to visit.
Our kids have been absolutely great. We finished with several shopping runs and the kids will tell you about L&P and kiwi juice. Everything has been great and all the kids appreciate the effort Graham and I put into putting this together.
The farewell from Graham was tearful. It was heartwarming to watch as our kids all got broken up that they had to leave. It has been an awesome eight days and we are all so grateful to the New Zealand Scout association for inviting us.
The Scout association has committed to send a contingent to come visit us in 2010. We want to give them the same sort of hospitality we received so I will be asking all of you to consider accepting a homestay of a kiwi or two when they visit.
Now, it is off to Fiji for our last couple of days before returning home. It has been amazing here, and all of us want to come visit again. Cheers from New Zealand
Don Roberts
We are about to board, and I need to go, but I wanted to make a quick update.
Our last two days have been awesome. After we got to Mt. Moaunganui we met with a "bunch" of new zealand scouts. We all have standing invitations to come back and places to stay. Even our bus driver Glen offered us a place to stay if we come back to visit.
Our kids have been absolutely great. We finished with several shopping runs and the kids will tell you about L&P and kiwi juice. Everything has been great and all the kids appreciate the effort Graham and I put into putting this together.
The farewell from Graham was tearful. It was heartwarming to watch as our kids all got broken up that they had to leave. It has been an awesome eight days and we are all so grateful to the New Zealand Scout association for inviting us.
The Scout association has committed to send a contingent to come visit us in 2010. We want to give them the same sort of hospitality we received so I will be asking all of you to consider accepting a homestay of a kiwi or two when they visit.
Now, it is off to Fiji for our last couple of days before returning home. It has been amazing here, and all of us want to come visit again. Cheers from New Zealand
Don Roberts
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Boxing Day
After our awesome Christmas, we started Boxing day by packing up. The crew is getting really efficient, we were packed up well before our deadline. Everyone is pitching in, and it is great the way things are going.
We added a new venue to our day by starting with an indoor rock wall for the crew. The wall was 30 meters high, far higher than any indoor walls I've seen. Most of the crew participated (we adults are just too old and fat) and had a grand time. The wall was closed for boxing day, but on Christmas eve we made arrangements for someone to come in just for us to get our day started. They have a high wire at the top of the walls that goes across, and everyone had a go. I've got some great photos to show you.
Next came the Buried Village, New Zealand's Pompey. It was very interesting, and it was a disturbingly tragic event to learn about. Unfortunately, it was raining most of the time we were there, but we got to see it all. Man, they have the biggest trout in their streams. At least 18 inches, about 15-20 pounds. That is a lot of fish! They had a bunch right there in the stream next to the village.
We then went to Okere Falls where we watched kayakers going down a 23 foot waterfall. It was, to say the least, exciting.
After that, Kiwi360, a kiwi fruit farm. We took the tour in a driving rain, but that certainly didn't dampen anyone's spirit. Looks like about half the kids did not bother to bring rain gear, so when we get to fiji, they are going to get very wet. A bunch of the kids did not bring mats to sleep on, either, and those floors are rather hard.
Showers are challenging as facilities and time are very limited. We arraved at Mount Maunganui mid-afternoon where we proceeded to set up some tents and in the hall. It was great to see the guys and gals setting up and cheerfully making do. They are now off shopping and checking out the town. Back for our evening meal at Bureta Park Restaurant where we will be meeting some local venturers.
Tomorrow is our last full day in New Zealand, with the gold mines and Ngatea, Paeroa and mural town. Things are definitely winding down, but it has been a real thrill ride!
It is Dec 26 here, but we all wish you a great Christmas!
We added a new venue to our day by starting with an indoor rock wall for the crew. The wall was 30 meters high, far higher than any indoor walls I've seen. Most of the crew participated (we adults are just too old and fat) and had a grand time. The wall was closed for boxing day, but on Christmas eve we made arrangements for someone to come in just for us to get our day started. They have a high wire at the top of the walls that goes across, and everyone had a go. I've got some great photos to show you.
Next came the Buried Village, New Zealand's Pompey. It was very interesting, and it was a disturbingly tragic event to learn about. Unfortunately, it was raining most of the time we were there, but we got to see it all. Man, they have the biggest trout in their streams. At least 18 inches, about 15-20 pounds. That is a lot of fish! They had a bunch right there in the stream next to the village.
We then went to Okere Falls where we watched kayakers going down a 23 foot waterfall. It was, to say the least, exciting.
After that, Kiwi360, a kiwi fruit farm. We took the tour in a driving rain, but that certainly didn't dampen anyone's spirit. Looks like about half the kids did not bother to bring rain gear, so when we get to fiji, they are going to get very wet. A bunch of the kids did not bring mats to sleep on, either, and those floors are rather hard.
Showers are challenging as facilities and time are very limited. We arraved at Mount Maunganui mid-afternoon where we proceeded to set up some tents and in the hall. It was great to see the guys and gals setting up and cheerfully making do. They are now off shopping and checking out the town. Back for our evening meal at Bureta Park Restaurant where we will be meeting some local venturers.
Tomorrow is our last full day in New Zealand, with the gold mines and Ngatea, Paeroa and mural town. Things are definitely winding down, but it has been a real thrill ride!
It is Dec 26 here, but we all wish you a great Christmas!
Tons of excitement and a happy crew
Well, internet has been hard to come by, but we have been anything but idle.
You would think that after zorbing and shweeb on Christmas eve, it couldn't get better.
WRONG!
On Christmas day, we started with land luge. These little carts proved so addictive, we elected to buy everyone a third run, then a lot of the kids paid for their own forth or even fifth run.
We experienced some minor injuries with some road rash (including your intrepid leader, ouch!).
After the luge (and the kids were very reluctant to leave), we haded to Whakatane beach for our barbque. We had a few go kayaking, others went and played in the Pacific Ocean. From the other side :-). We tried hard, but we couldn't see home. The BBQ, cooked by Tanner Boles, was awesome! We've been meeting a few scouts everywhere we go and doing some trading as well.
After Whakatane, back to Rotorua for a Hangi. That is a sort of Maori Luau. I got selected, with Jase Kasperowitz, to do the Haka. I'm not too good at it and I sure hope they don't show the film at the party. Diana Slone was selected to use the poi balls. It was a great show.
Our accommodations in Rotorua was a sea scout den on lake rotorua right at the end of the main street of town. It was great being on the lakefront, but the den was rather small. Everyone did great with getting things done, and all had a very Merry Christmas. Our driver, Glen, even joined us for the bbq. He also decorated the bus for Christmas. The weather was gorgeous, clear blue skies and warm. Perfect for the beach.
You would think that after zorbing and shweeb on Christmas eve, it couldn't get better.
WRONG!
On Christmas day, we started with land luge. These little carts proved so addictive, we elected to buy everyone a third run, then a lot of the kids paid for their own forth or even fifth run.
We experienced some minor injuries with some road rash (including your intrepid leader, ouch!).
After the luge (and the kids were very reluctant to leave), we haded to Whakatane beach for our barbque. We had a few go kayaking, others went and played in the Pacific Ocean. From the other side :-). We tried hard, but we couldn't see home. The BBQ, cooked by Tanner Boles, was awesome! We've been meeting a few scouts everywhere we go and doing some trading as well.
After Whakatane, back to Rotorua for a Hangi. That is a sort of Maori Luau. I got selected, with Jase Kasperowitz, to do the Haka. I'm not too good at it and I sure hope they don't show the film at the party. Diana Slone was selected to use the poi balls. It was a great show.
Our accommodations in Rotorua was a sea scout den on lake rotorua right at the end of the main street of town. It was great being on the lakefront, but the den was rather small. Everyone did great with getting things done, and all had a very Merry Christmas. Our driver, Glen, even joined us for the bbq. He also decorated the bus for Christmas. The weather was gorgeous, clear blue skies and warm. Perfect for the beach.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Zorbing and Shweeb
Wé had a great time with blackwater rafting, and then the next day we traveled to Rotorua. We met with several scout officials and saw some beautiful country as we scoped out Lord of the Rings locations. We say Mt. Doom, Mordor, the grotto where Farimir captured Gollum and other sites.
The Rotorua sea scout den is small but comfy. Today we have been at agrodome where we Zorbed (water zorbing is way cool!) then Shweeb (what a rush!) and the sheep shearing show.
Monica Orphan got to feed a lamb, Tim Cabal got to milk a cow. You should have seen the looks on their faces.
I don't have access to download photos from here, but I'll do that as soon as I can.
We are having an absolute blast!
Everyone is safe and healthy and the kids are doing a great job pulling together.
The rest of today is a Maori village on a geothermal field, then supper("tea") at Valentines where we celebrate Ryan Orphan's 18th birthday. We go to Christmas Caroling.
Tomorrow is land luge, bbq on the beach, then a Hangi. It just doesn't stop!
The Rotorua sea scout den is small but comfy. Today we have been at agrodome where we Zorbed (water zorbing is way cool!) then Shweeb (what a rush!) and the sheep shearing show.
Monica Orphan got to feed a lamb, Tim Cabal got to milk a cow. You should have seen the looks on their faces.
I don't have access to download photos from here, but I'll do that as soon as I can.
We are having an absolute blast!
Everyone is safe and healthy and the kids are doing a great job pulling together.
The rest of today is a Maori village on a geothermal field, then supper("tea") at Valentines where we celebrate Ryan Orphan's 18th birthday. We go to Christmas Caroling.
Tomorrow is land luge, bbq on the beach, then a Hangi. It just doesn't stop!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Photo Website
The New Zealand trekers have a Photo Website. There are some photos posted there from the trip so far. You can download the photos to your computer at no charge.
Two ways to get to the Picasa Website:
(1) Click on this link:
http://picasaweb.google.com/nztrek
(2) Just click on the team photo at left.
Two ways to get to the Picasa Website:
(1) Click on this link:
http://picasaweb.google.com/nztrek
(2) Just click on the team photo at left.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Flight from Fiji got off three hours late. It was nice being in the hotel in Fiji as we could take a shower and refresh ourselves rather than sit in an airport. It did mean we had to go through Fiji customs, however. We arrived in NZ at 6pm and, after picking up "takeaway" dinner (fish and chips - the place was pretty challenged with 48 orders) we got in at 11pm and settled in.
On Sunday, it was up bright and early. The ted ashby has been placed in dry dock so we had to change gears and took a ferry to rangitoto, an island in Auckland harbor that is an extinct volcano. We hiked about 1.5 miles to the top where we had ***spectacular*** views. Then to Kelly Tarltons -small but fascinating with all the antarctic theme and wildlife. We skipped the sky tower as everyone wanted a chance to go shopping. The kids found the debit cards work for atms but not for merchants, so they have to get cash to buy things. We had a great time today and look forward to more awesome things tomorrow. Everyone is having a great time.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Greetings from Fiji! Our trek took an unexpected turn today. The flight from Fiji to New Zealand was delayed "at least two hours" so Air Pacific has put us in the hotel at right for the day, including breakfast. Then, after a few hours to refresh ourselves (a shower is *very* welcome), we head back to the airport to continue our journey. Personally, I think it is a scam by Fiji to get tourists passing through to spend some time and money in Fiji on their way. Everyone is in good spirits. They announced Monica's 21st birthday on the plane just before we got off. Everyone is in good spirits and the adventure took an unexpected but very interesting turn. Chuck had some problems that caused him to get to LAX a little late, so our initial Kodiak session had to be abbreviated. However, this extra time in Fiji is letting us get entirely caught up. The food on the plane was surprisingly good, and the food in Fiji is, um, interesting. Cheers for now!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Packed and ready to go!
Here it is, packed and ready to go!
Only 25 hours to the airport!
DO NOT FORGET YOUR PASSPORT!
Down Under Humor
Okay, now that we are 32 hours from the airport, people are jabbing me with down under humor. I get to share :-)
So, in the morning, do you wake down? When you are about to sit, do you sit up?
When we are half way there, is there neither left nor right, up nor down, does water go straight down the drain without forming a funnel?
When you flip a pancake, does it just keep going?
Oh, you knew I couldn't resist, didn't you?
Cheers! Don
So, in the morning, do you wake down? When you are about to sit, do you sit up?
When we are half way there, is there neither left nor right, up nor down, does water go straight down the drain without forming a funnel?
When you flip a pancake, does it just keep going?
Oh, you knew I couldn't resist, didn't you?
Cheers! Don
We are less than 36 hours from the deadline for all to arrive at the airport. We have all the arrangements in place, and we are ready to go! Don't forget to wear your Field uniform with your crew T underneath it. You will be able to take your Field uniform off in the plane, and the crew T allows us to spot you if we need you. You will have to put he Field uniform back on when we deplane in Fiji, and when we take the leg to New Zealand you can take it off again until we deplane in Auckland.
Are you ready for the trip? Feel the magic building! I can't wait!
Don
Are you ready for the trip? Feel the magic building! I can't wait!
Don
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Everyone is starting to arrive
I had the pleasure of meeting one of our out of state crew members this evening, Chris Mellen. We had a very pleasant evening. Here is a photo of my son, Daniel, Daughter, Rachel, and Chris (he's the blond).
Updated Gear List
Here is a gear list updated by Laura Kasperowicz (edited for some minor typos):
2008 New Zealand/Fiji Islands Gear List
Of the twelve days of this trip, FIVE will be primarily in swimwear and swim over wear. There will probably not be an opportunity to do laundry. LABEL as much as you can to prevent loss.
Wear departure day:
___BSA Venturing shirt, Venturing T-Shirt under Venturing shirt, socks, walking shoes, long trousers (Venturing grey if possible)
___New Zealand Neckerchief/scarf tied in friendship knot (to be supplied at airport)
___Money Pouch (Neck or Belt variety) to include:
___Passport
___Driver’s License (if available)
___Student ID (if applicable)
___ATM/Debit Card (optional, but recommended)
___ONE carry on day-pack to include:
___EMPTY water bottle (ex: Nalgene)
___camera (optional)
___sunglasses
___Pen/Pencil & notepad
___Laptop (optional)
___Cell Phone, International capable (optional)
___GPS/Batteries (optional)
___ONE checked bag – 50 lbs max weight; length + width + height= 62 inches maximum; to include:
___1-2 Venturing Crew Polo Shirt
___1-2 Venturing Crew T-shirt
___1 Charcoal Grey long trousers (BSA Venturing Crew trousers or similar)
___2 Charcoal Grey shorts (BSA Venturing Crew Shorts or similar)
___2 Swimwear (including over wear)
___Underwear
___Socks
___Sleep clothes
___Hat (summer sun protection)
___Rain Jacket or poncho
___Light jacket, coat or sweatshirt
___Water shoes or sandals
___Small pillow
___Light sleeping bag, or YHA sleep sack with blankets (temp should not get below 50F)
___2 Towels
___Toiletries (Note: NO aerosol cans allowed)
___lip balm
___sunscreen
___insect repellant
___personal hygiene items as needed
___personal grooming supplies as needed
___medicines if required
Other:
___underwater camera for black water rafting
___Mask, fins, snorkel (available no charge at Fiji venue)
___Golf shoes (only if electing to play golf on free day, December 30)
___Trading/Gift items for hosts and scouts (extra patches for swapping, American quarters, Contact cards)
You will be wearing either your BSA uniform or crew shirt most days. Do not bring a lot of extra shirts. Mr. Roberts will have a laptop computer that can take most camera media and will have limited capability to store your photos if you fill your cards.
Knives, electronic games, DVD players are not allowed. iPods are “OK”. Electric converter (AC/DC 110/220 NZ and Fiji plugs) will be provided for the group’s shared use; you may also elect to bring your own.
2008 New Zealand/Fiji Islands Gear List
Of the twelve days of this trip, FIVE will be primarily in swimwear and swim over wear. There will probably not be an opportunity to do laundry. LABEL as much as you can to prevent loss.
Wear departure day:
___BSA Venturing shirt, Venturing T-Shirt under Venturing shirt, socks, walking shoes, long trousers (Venturing grey if possible)
___New Zealand Neckerchief/scarf tied in friendship knot (to be supplied at airport)
___Money Pouch (Neck or Belt variety) to include:
___Passport
___Driver’s License (if available)
___Student ID (if applicable)
___ATM/Debit Card (optional, but recommended)
___ONE carry on day-pack to include:
___EMPTY water bottle (ex: Nalgene)
___camera (optional)
___sunglasses
___Pen/Pencil & notepad
___Laptop (optional)
___Cell Phone, International capable (optional)
___GPS/Batteries (optional)
___ONE checked bag – 50 lbs max weight; length + width + height= 62 inches maximum; to include:
___1-2 Venturing Crew Polo Shirt
___1-2 Venturing Crew T-shirt
___1 Charcoal Grey long trousers (BSA Venturing Crew trousers or similar)
___2 Charcoal Grey shorts (BSA Venturing Crew Shorts or similar)
___2 Swimwear (including over wear)
___Underwear
___Socks
___Sleep clothes
___Hat (summer sun protection)
___Rain Jacket or poncho
___Light jacket, coat or sweatshirt
___Water shoes or sandals
___Small pillow
___Light sleeping bag, or YHA sleep sack with blankets (temp should not get below 50F)
___2 Towels
___Toiletries (Note: NO aerosol cans allowed)
___lip balm
___sunscreen
___insect repellant
___personal hygiene items as needed
___personal grooming supplies as needed
___medicines if required
Other:
___underwater camera for black water rafting
___Mask, fins, snorkel (available no charge at Fiji venue)
___Golf shoes (only if electing to play golf on free day, December 30)
___Trading/Gift items for hosts and scouts (extra patches for swapping, American quarters, Contact cards)
You will be wearing either your BSA uniform or crew shirt most days. Do not bring a lot of extra shirts. Mr. Roberts will have a laptop computer that can take most camera media and will have limited capability to store your photos if you fill your cards.
Knives, electronic games, DVD players are not allowed. iPods are “OK”. Electric converter (AC/DC 110/220 NZ and Fiji plugs) will be provided for the group’s shared use; you may also elect to bring your own.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Updated Gear List
Laura Kasperowicz has updated the gear list with my various emails.
It is posted as Gear list 20081213.doc on the yahoo group
It is posted as Gear list 20081213.doc on the yahoo group
Airport arrival
Airport arrival:
Los Angeles International Airport
Tom Bradley International Terminal
Second Floor
At the Air Pacific ticket counter
7:30 PM
Thursday, December 18, 2008.
In uniform, on time, passport in hand.
Picture LAX terminals as U shaped. The base of the U is Tom Bradley
International Terminal.
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Los Angeles International Airport
Tom Bradley International Terminal
Second Floor
At the Air Pacific ticket counter
7:30 PM
Thursday, December 18, 2008.
In uniform, on time, passport in hand.
Picture LAX terminals as U shaped. The base of the U is Tom Bradley
International Terminal.
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
New Zealand - Label your stuff!
Greetings Trekkers.
I wanted to remind everyone that we are living somewhat communally, so be
sure to LABEL YOUR STUFF.
You know those socks that got into Patrick's bag by mistake? You might want
them...
Or how about that swim suit that found its way into Delana's bag as she
hurried to pack in the morning?
Label it!
You all know this, as you got on board, but here is a quote from the founder
of Scouts and Guides:
"Opportunity is a train with few stops, so get on board when it comes by"
Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell, 1908
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
I can't wait!
I wanted to remind everyone that we are living somewhat communally, so be
sure to LABEL YOUR STUFF.
You know those socks that got into Patrick's bag by mistake? You might want
them...
Or how about that swim suit that found its way into Delana's bag as she
hurried to pack in the morning?
Label it!
You all know this, as you got on board, but here is a quote from the founder
of Scouts and Guides:
"Opportunity is a train with few stops, so get on board when it comes by"
Lord Baden-Powell of Gilwell, 1908
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
I can't wait!
Bag Size - Part 2
Hello again.
Ed Pavloff was kind enough to point out that as I gave a minimum size, I
neglected to give a maximum size.
Air Pacific limits us there, here is their info:
Piece Allowance - 2 pieces with total dimensions of the 2 pieces not
exceeding 270cm (106in) and no 1 piece exceeding 158cm (62in) (Total
dimensions are measured by adding together the height, width and depth of
the bag.) Weight Allowance - 23kg per piece
Air Pacific Baggage Allowance:
http://www.airpacific.com/default.aspx?sid=AP_travelPlanner&pid=AP_BaggageAl
lowance
Again, we are limited to ***ONE*** piece of checked baggage per person
because we have to fit them all on the bus.
So, the one piece limit of 62 in. applies.
Take my WSJ bag: 30x12x18 = 60 inches. That means you can't get much bigger
than that.
If your bag incurs an oversize surcharge, we will expect you to pay that
surcharge before we board the plane.
Weight allowance of 23kg is just over 50 pounds.
Since you have to lug that monster, I view that limitation as self limiting
:-)
My bag, fully packed, was about 32 pounds.
Your carryon is limited to 39 inches (say 18x12x9) and 7kg (just over 15
pounds).
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Ed Pavloff was kind enough to point out that as I gave a minimum size, I
neglected to give a maximum size.
Air Pacific limits us there, here is their info:
Piece Allowance - 2 pieces with total dimensions of the 2 pieces not
exceeding 270cm (106in) and no 1 piece exceeding 158cm (62in) (Total
dimensions are measured by adding together the height, width and depth of
the bag.) Weight Allowance - 23kg per piece
Air Pacific Baggage Allowance:
http://www.airpacific.com/default.aspx?sid=AP_travelPlanner&pid=AP_BaggageAl
lowance
Again, we are limited to ***ONE*** piece of checked baggage per person
because we have to fit them all on the bus.
So, the one piece limit of 62 in. applies.
Take my WSJ bag: 30x12x18 = 60 inches. That means you can't get much bigger
than that.
If your bag incurs an oversize surcharge, we will expect you to pay that
surcharge before we board the plane.
Weight allowance of 23kg is just over 50 pounds.
Since you have to lug that monster, I view that limitation as self limiting
:-)
My bag, fully packed, was about 32 pounds.
Your carryon is limited to 39 inches (say 18x12x9) and 7kg (just over 15
pounds).
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Bag Size - Part 1
Bula!!!
I received a question about the size of the bag for the trip.
The bag I had packed as my demonstration at the September meeting was my
World Jamboree duffel. It is 2 and 1/2 feet long and one foot high. That
is hardly an extra large duffel. It was more than adequate for what had to
be packed.
You are not required to use a duffel. If you want to use your existing hard
sided luggage, that is fine. A rolling duffel, such as those available at
Costco, works very well. You want something with about 5000 ci capacity.
My WSJ duffel is about 5500 ci.
If you elect to bring something bigger, just remember, you will have to
carry it up to 1/3 of a mile. So packing extra means more for you to carry,
and, even worse, it uses up more space in the bus storage that might mean
someone else's gear may not fit. A scout is courteous!
Please make sure you use your labels!
I can't wait!
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
I received a question about the size of the bag for the trip.
The bag I had packed as my demonstration at the September meeting was my
World Jamboree duffel. It is 2 and 1/2 feet long and one foot high. That
is hardly an extra large duffel. It was more than adequate for what had to
be packed.
You are not required to use a duffel. If you want to use your existing hard
sided luggage, that is fine. A rolling duffel, such as those available at
Costco, works very well. You want something with about 5000 ci capacity.
My WSJ duffel is about 5500 ci.
If you elect to bring something bigger, just remember, you will have to
carry it up to 1/3 of a mile. So packing extra means more for you to carry,
and, even worse, it uses up more space in the bus storage that might mean
someone else's gear may not fit. A scout is courteous!
Please make sure you use your labels!
I can't wait!
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Emergency Contacts
Bula!
A few more of those nagging miscellaneous things to remember.
Emergency contact:
I wanted to make sure everyone is leaving the emergency contact with the
folks at home.
It can be found on your luggage tags, so be sure to write it down.
I remind the folks at home that this *is* for *emergencies* only. Please
don't call to wish someone a happy birthday or tell them you miss them.
Passports:
I think I may have mentioned once or twice that it is kind of important that
everyone shows up at the airport with their passports?
Chuck and I will have photocopies, and we will be leaving a set of
photocopies with Donna Stoica here. However, it would be a *real* *good*
*idea* if you have a photocopy left at home as well.
Medications:
If anyone is bringing prescriptions, remember, they must be in their
original rX containers, or it is likely they won't get through customs.
Diarrhea:
Ugh. Well, let's face it, one of the realities of international travel. It
can happen, in fact, regardless of our precautions, it is *likely* to happen
to someone on this trip. Bring something so it can be dealt with.
Luggage:
Make sure you have no loose straps that can snag on the baggage handling
equipment.
BRING AN ID CARD:
Everyone needs a photo id card along with their passport. Preferably, if
you are a student, a student ID!!!!! Don't forget, please!
Cheers!
Don Roberts
How many days?
A few more of those nagging miscellaneous things to remember.
Emergency contact:
I wanted to make sure everyone is leaving the emergency contact with the
folks at home.
It can be found on your luggage tags, so be sure to write it down.
I remind the folks at home that this *is* for *emergencies* only. Please
don't call to wish someone a happy birthday or tell them you miss them.
Passports:
I think I may have mentioned once or twice that it is kind of important that
everyone shows up at the airport with their passports?
Chuck and I will have photocopies, and we will be leaving a set of
photocopies with Donna Stoica here. However, it would be a *real* *good*
*idea* if you have a photocopy left at home as well.
Medications:
If anyone is bringing prescriptions, remember, they must be in their
original rX containers, or it is likely they won't get through customs.
Diarrhea:
Ugh. Well, let's face it, one of the realities of international travel. It
can happen, in fact, regardless of our precautions, it is *likely* to happen
to someone on this trip. Bring something so it can be dealt with.
Luggage:
Make sure you have no loose straps that can snag on the baggage handling
equipment.
BRING AN ID CARD:
Everyone needs a photo id card along with their passport. Preferably, if
you are a student, a student ID!!!!! Don't forget, please!
Cheers!
Don Roberts
How many days?
Last Minute Packing Instructions
Bula!
Naturally, as the clock ticks down, people are actually starting to pack,
and stuff that either wasn't mentioned, or covered a while ago, keeps coming
up.
Bug spray: Hey, it's the tropics. There will be bugs. Lots of bugs.
Really BIG bugs. Okay, live with it. In my opinion and experience, bug
spray is worse than useless, but I still see the kids in the troop and crew
spraying tons of it on, every time they meet a bug. That should be a clue,
but they don't get it. The bug spray should be lightly applied, and you
will get all the effect that is going to happen, and adding more does
nothing. Also, the kids seem to think the bug spray is an insecticide and
should kill the little buggers, but it is repellant, it makes you marginally
less attractive to them, that is all. But they never listen, so I don't
know why I bother... Anyway, you should all know YOU CANNOT TAKE AN AEROSOL
CAN on a plane, not in your carry, not in your checked. So, if you insist
on bringing bug spray, it has to be pump or lotion.
Sunglasses - uh, yeah.
Sunglasses strap - your preference.
Sun screen - you *better* bring it. But remember, NO AEROSOL!
Money - I've been recommending about $200 on the kid's debit card. We'll be
only an email away, so if they do run out of money, they can "phone home"
for a reload. US currency is much more costly, as the exchange for currency
is always much higher than for an atm or credit card. Just remember, after
Dec 23, we will have no access to a bank, only atms. NZ banks close for
Christmas eve, Christmas day, Boxing day and weekends. Boxing day??? Google
it.
Mess kit - it's not on the packing list, and there is a reason. Not needed.
First aid kit - not a bad idea, but our crew doctor will have everything
that is needed.
Laundry - Bwah-ha-ha. Its only 12 days, just like a Philmont trek. Enjoy the
fragrance when you pick up your kids on 30 Dec, or bring some clean clothes
to the airport and make them change. If they *really* feel the need, then
bring some soap and some zip locs and do the laundry Philmont style. The
women on the trip have conspired to bring some fabreze. Wimps.
Snacks: NZ and Fiji have some pretty strict regulations about bringing
consumables into their countries. Unless you KNOW FOR SURE it is allowed
in, don't bring it, because if you bring anything that is restricted, there
is a big fine and I am NOT paying for you, and they don't just let you ash
can it while still in customs.
I will have some capacity to store photos from your camera media (if it is
one my media pc can handle, of course), but it doesn't hurt to bring extra
memory cards (I am not about to say film. Who still uses film? Yuck.).
Doesn't hurt to bring extra batteries either, but both can be bought in
country. It's not like we are going to the deepest darkest jungle, you
know... It all depends how much they like to take photos. Anyway, I will
put together a DVD of all the photos that get submitted to me during and
after the trip, and I will make them available at the January party for cost
of media (about $1 per dvd), so don't get too concerned if junior comes home
empty handed!
Power: NZ and Fiji use the same plug, so you only need one converter if you
bring one. Remember, Chuck will have a power strip so you should be able to
plug into that and not need a converter.
ONE WEEK TO GO!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Naturally, as the clock ticks down, people are actually starting to pack,
and stuff that either wasn't mentioned, or covered a while ago, keeps coming
up.
Bug spray: Hey, it's the tropics. There will be bugs. Lots of bugs.
Really BIG bugs. Okay, live with it. In my opinion and experience, bug
spray is worse than useless, but I still see the kids in the troop and crew
spraying tons of it on, every time they meet a bug. That should be a clue,
but they don't get it. The bug spray should be lightly applied, and you
will get all the effect that is going to happen, and adding more does
nothing. Also, the kids seem to think the bug spray is an insecticide and
should kill the little buggers, but it is repellant, it makes you marginally
less attractive to them, that is all. But they never listen, so I don't
know why I bother... Anyway, you should all know YOU CANNOT TAKE AN AEROSOL
CAN on a plane, not in your carry, not in your checked. So, if you insist
on bringing bug spray, it has to be pump or lotion.
Sunglasses - uh, yeah.
Sunglasses strap - your preference.
Sun screen - you *better* bring it. But remember, NO AEROSOL!
Money - I've been recommending about $200 on the kid's debit card. We'll be
only an email away, so if they do run out of money, they can "phone home"
for a reload. US currency is much more costly, as the exchange for currency
is always much higher than for an atm or credit card. Just remember, after
Dec 23, we will have no access to a bank, only atms. NZ banks close for
Christmas eve, Christmas day, Boxing day and weekends. Boxing day??? Google
it.
Mess kit - it's not on the packing list, and there is a reason. Not needed.
First aid kit - not a bad idea, but our crew doctor will have everything
that is needed.
Laundry - Bwah-ha-ha. Its only 12 days, just like a Philmont trek. Enjoy the
fragrance when you pick up your kids on 30 Dec, or bring some clean clothes
to the airport and make them change. If they *really* feel the need, then
bring some soap and some zip locs and do the laundry Philmont style. The
women on the trip have conspired to bring some fabreze. Wimps.
Snacks: NZ and Fiji have some pretty strict regulations about bringing
consumables into their countries. Unless you KNOW FOR SURE it is allowed
in, don't bring it, because if you bring anything that is restricted, there
is a big fine and I am NOT paying for you, and they don't just let you ash
can it while still in customs.
I will have some capacity to store photos from your camera media (if it is
one my media pc can handle, of course), but it doesn't hurt to bring extra
memory cards (I am not about to say film. Who still uses film? Yuck.).
Doesn't hurt to bring extra batteries either, but both can be bought in
country. It's not like we are going to the deepest darkest jungle, you
know... It all depends how much they like to take photos. Anyway, I will
put together a DVD of all the photos that get submitted to me during and
after the trip, and I will make them available at the January party for cost
of media (about $1 per dvd), so don't get too concerned if junior comes home
empty handed!
Power: NZ and Fiji use the same plug, so you only need one converter if you
bring one. Remember, Chuck will have a power strip so you should be able to
plug into that and not need a converter.
ONE WEEK TO GO!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Neckers & Money Belts
Neckers:
That is neckerchief or scout scarf. They will be given at the airport. We will demonstrate the friendship knot and then you will be tying them for each other - remember, every time you tie the friendship knot, you are making a friend!
Money belts:
As noted, so long as you avoid putting things in outside pockets, you should be find. A money belt or around the neck pouch could be useful, but we are going to be very active and they do tend to get in the way. Put your passport in a Ziploc to make sure it stays dry.
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
That is neckerchief or scout scarf. They will be given at the airport. We will demonstrate the friendship knot and then you will be tying them for each other - remember, every time you tie the friendship knot, you are making a friend!
Money belts:
As noted, so long as you avoid putting things in outside pockets, you should be find. A money belt or around the neck pouch could be useful, but we are going to be very active and they do tend to get in the way. Put your passport in a Ziploc to make sure it stays dry.
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
New Zealand Emergency Contact and Sun Screen
Greetings!
You will find our New Zealand contact listed on the back side of the luggage
tags. Be sure to write down his info in case you need to contact us.
New Zealand country code is 64
So you dial graham with 64276048578
Also, you cannot take aerosol cans on the plane. So sun screen, insect
repellant, hair spray, etc. must be non-aerosol.
Cheers
Don
You will find our New Zealand contact listed on the back side of the luggage
tags. Be sure to write down his info in case you need to contact us.
New Zealand country code is 64
So you dial graham with 64276048578
Also, you cannot take aerosol cans on the plane. So sun screen, insect
repellant, hair spray, etc. must be non-aerosol.
Cheers
Don
Friday, December 12, 2008
Publicity in New Zealand
Here is a little something that is being published in NZ about our trip:
CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND (CNI) REGION NEWS IN BRIEF
Date: 12 December 2008
The New Award Scheme
Great news - the Leaders Manuals for the new award scheme are now available
for download from the Scouting NZ Website www.scouts.org.nz
If you do not wish to print these documents yourself, CNI Regional Service
Centre will have copies available in colour at the following rates:
. Kea Leaders Manual $5
. Cub Leaders Manual $7
. Scout Leaders Manual $10
. Venturer Advisors Manual $11
....[left out a bunch of stuff that didn't apply to us]...
International visitors in the CNI Region
A group of 45 Scouts and Leaders from the UK, Canada, and Australia will be
staying at the Rotorua Sea Scout hall from 15 - 17 December
A group of 36 Venturer Scouts and 11 Leaders from the USA will be visiting
various locations in the CNI Region from 22 - 27 December. They will be
staying at Te Kuiti (22/11), Rotorua Sea (23 - 25/11), Mount Maunganui
(26/11) and Camp Sladdin (27/11) Scout halls.
Both groups would welcome meeting older Scouts and Venturers, and the
possibility to swap badges.
....
[Don] Interestingly they left off our stay for two nights in Motu Muana at
the start of the trip. We also have 3 more adults along than their count.
Make sure you have your swapping supplies, because we can expect LOTS of
visitors.
Cheers
Don Roberts
CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND (CNI) REGION NEWS IN BRIEF
Date: 12 December 2008
The New Award Scheme
Great news - the Leaders Manuals for the new award scheme are now available
for download from the Scouting NZ Website www.scouts.org.nz
If you do not wish to print these documents yourself, CNI Regional Service
Centre will have copies available in colour at the following rates:
. Kea Leaders Manual $5
. Cub Leaders Manual $7
. Scout Leaders Manual $10
. Venturer Advisors Manual $11
....[left out a bunch of stuff that didn't apply to us]...
International visitors in the CNI Region
A group of 45 Scouts and Leaders from the UK, Canada, and Australia will be
staying at the Rotorua Sea Scout hall from 15 - 17 December
A group of 36 Venturer Scouts and 11 Leaders from the USA will be visiting
various locations in the CNI Region from 22 - 27 December. They will be
staying at Te Kuiti (22/11), Rotorua Sea (23 - 25/11), Mount Maunganui
(26/11) and Camp Sladdin (27/11) Scout halls.
Both groups would welcome meeting older Scouts and Venturers, and the
possibility to swap badges.
....
[Don] Interestingly they left off our stay for two nights in Motu Muana at
the start of the trip. We also have 3 more adults along than their count.
Make sure you have your swapping supplies, because we can expect LOTS of
visitors.
Cheers
Don Roberts
Publicity in New Zealand - Web link
Hey there, Gang!
34 days to go!
I thought it would be fun to point out that on the NATIONAL New Zealand
scouts website our visit does show up (okay, it is pretty obscure, but it IS
there).
Go to:
http://scouts.org.nz/sanz/news.php
Along the top, go to "events" and click on "calendars".
Scroll down to the calendar labeled "Scouting Counties Manukau"
Click the arrow that puts you in the next month (December)
Click on December 27, and there we are.
Okay, it isn't all that exciting, but it is the best we have :-)
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
34 days to go!
I thought it would be fun to point out that on the NATIONAL New Zealand
scouts website our visit does show up (okay, it is pretty obscure, but it IS
there).
Go to:
http://scouts.org.nz/sanz/news.php
Along the top, go to "events" and click on "calendars".
Scroll down to the calendar labeled "Scouting Counties Manukau"
Click the arrow that puts you in the next month (December)
Click on December 27, and there we are.
Okay, it isn't all that exciting, but it is the best we have :-)
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Random Thoughts on their Money
Kia Ora!
I'll bet by now you're beginning to wonder if I'll ever shut up :-)
EIGHT days to go!
I picked up some New Zealand and Fiji currency to have handy when atms and
credit card payments are not handy.
If you have ever gotten foreign currency, you know how much some of it looks
like monopoly money.
The NZ currency has two windows in it. There is one transparent insert with
the value of the currency on it, a second is a fern branch on a transparent
window. Of course, as is normal for most of the currency of the world, the
design is elaborate, and not the scrolls and swirls we are used to. Nor
does it have the excess of whitespace as found on our currency. They have
various prominent New Zealand people on their currency and birds from New
Zealand on the reverse. Very pretty. Also, as with much of the world, they
have abandoned paper currency smaller than $5, so $1 coins are the norm. I
daresay USA will eventually follow this trend, just a question of when.
Some examples. The $5 note has Sir Edmund Hillary on it, the man who first
climbed Everest.
The $10 note as Kate Shepard, the woman responsible for getting women the
vote in New Zealand.
As you are aware, the 10cent coin features the mask we used on our patch,
but what I didn't know is that it is their smallest coin.
So, everything is rounded the nearest dime.
A rather fascinating write up on the New Zealand currency can be found here:
http://www.rbnz.govt.nz/currency/Money/explaining_currency.pdf
Fiji money is a bit less interesting though just as colorful. All their
denominations from FJ$5 up feature the Queen of England. Reverse of their
bills are Fiji scenes. I've not found what their coins look like. The FJ$5
has the Nadi airport on it, and as we will be there, it might make a nice
souvenir on its own.
I can't wait!
Don Roberts
I'll bet by now you're beginning to wonder if I'll ever shut up :-)
EIGHT days to go!
I picked up some New Zealand and Fiji currency to have handy when atms and
credit card payments are not handy.
If you have ever gotten foreign currency, you know how much some of it looks
like monopoly money.
The NZ currency has two windows in it. There is one transparent insert with
the value of the currency on it, a second is a fern branch on a transparent
window. Of course, as is normal for most of the currency of the world, the
design is elaborate, and not the scrolls and swirls we are used to. Nor
does it have the excess of whitespace as found on our currency. They have
various prominent New Zealand people on their currency and birds from New
Zealand on the reverse. Very pretty. Also, as with much of the world, they
have abandoned paper currency smaller than $5, so $1 coins are the norm. I
daresay USA will eventually follow this trend, just a question of when.
Some examples. The $5 note has Sir Edmund Hillary on it, the man who first
climbed Everest.
The $10 note as Kate Shepard, the woman responsible for getting women the
vote in New Zealand.
As you are aware, the 10cent coin features the mask we used on our patch,
but what I didn't know is that it is their smallest coin.
So, everything is rounded the nearest dime.
A rather fascinating write up on the New Zealand currency can be found here:
http://www.rbnz.govt.nz/currency/Money/explaining_currency.pdf
Fiji money is a bit less interesting though just as colorful. All their
denominations from FJ$5 up feature the Queen of England. Reverse of their
bills are Fiji scenes. I've not found what their coins look like. The FJ$5
has the Nadi airport on it, and as we will be there, it might make a nice
souvenir on its own.
I can't wait!
Don Roberts
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
More on Constellations, a HANGI!
Kia Ora!
After a brief chat with our New Zealand contact, I wanted to amend my prior
statements about the constellations.
Well, in the southern hemisphere, the pole star can't be seen, and much
of the year neither can the big dipper. So you will see an entirely
new set of constellations in the sky, the most well known being the
southern cross used on the New Zealand and Australian national flags.
You might want to pay attention to the night sky over the next few days
so you will be able to note the differences. You will see the familiar
zodiac constellations that occur in the direction of the equator, but
to the south you will see an entirely new sky.
It turns out you can't see the big dipper at all from New Zealand.
Also, those you can see that we are familiar with (such as Orion), will be
UPSIDE DOWN.
So, when you look at the horizon at night and the constellations you see,
you'll be able to look at the horizon from new Zealand and see the same
constellations but from the bottom up!
Graham, our NZ contact, says they are not upside down. He said when you
look at them from up here in the northern hemisphere they are upside down.
Graham also says we are in for a real treat on our second evening in NZ.
Our dessert (he insists it is spelled "desert") will be Kiwi Hokey Pokey Ice
Cream. I told Graham "Hokey Pokey" is a dance, but he insisted I was
talking about Hokey Tokey. Put your right foot in, put your right foot out,
and do the Hokey Tokey as you shake it all about. Just doesn't sound right,
you know?
Speaking of fun with language, Graham is putting together a short New
Zealand-American dictionary. He is getting some cots for some of us to
sleep on and kept referring to them as stretchers. We went back and forth
for a bit before he said they were also known as camp beds. I knew from my
trips to England that is what they call cots in England. So I asked. "No,
cots are what babies sleep in." "No" says I, "babies sleep in either a crib
or a cradle". "No" says he, "a cradle is only used to rock babies, they
sleep in cots."
Okay, maybe you had to be there to see the humor in it. Graham and I were
having fun, anyway.
After we looked a bit at our budget and activities (and Mark Liechty
complained about going to a Chinese Restaurant on Christmas day), Graham had
finally been able to negotiate a Maori Hangi for Christmas evening. So,
instead of Chinese and Polynesian pools, we will have a Maori Hangi (that is
kind of like a Hawaiian luau, including the pig roasted in the ground) that
includes Maori music, dancing, singing and LOTS of audience participation.
Should be a blast! Do you think we can get Chuck, Graham and me to do the
Haka together? Now THAT ought to be a scary picture! We want all the
ladies in Team 2 to become experts at poi balls before they leave New
Zealand.
Tue, Dec 9, 2008 at 8:23 AM
NINE days to go!
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Can you tell I'm having more fun putting this together than I'll probably
have just going?
After a brief chat with our New Zealand contact, I wanted to amend my prior
statements about the constellations.
Well, in the southern hemisphere, the pole star can't be seen, and much
of the year neither can the big dipper. So you will see an entirely
new set of constellations in the sky, the most well known being the
southern cross used on the New Zealand and Australian national flags.
You might want to pay attention to the night sky over the next few days
so you will be able to note the differences. You will see the familiar
zodiac constellations that occur in the direction of the equator, but
to the south you will see an entirely new sky.
It turns out you can't see the big dipper at all from New Zealand.
Also, those you can see that we are familiar with (such as Orion), will be
UPSIDE DOWN.
So, when you look at the horizon at night and the constellations you see,
you'll be able to look at the horizon from new Zealand and see the same
constellations but from the bottom up!
Graham, our NZ contact, says they are not upside down. He said when you
look at them from up here in the northern hemisphere they are upside down.
Graham also says we are in for a real treat on our second evening in NZ.
Our dessert (he insists it is spelled "desert") will be Kiwi Hokey Pokey Ice
Cream. I told Graham "Hokey Pokey" is a dance, but he insisted I was
talking about Hokey Tokey. Put your right foot in, put your right foot out,
and do the Hokey Tokey as you shake it all about. Just doesn't sound right,
you know?
Speaking of fun with language, Graham is putting together a short New
Zealand-American dictionary. He is getting some cots for some of us to
sleep on and kept referring to them as stretchers. We went back and forth
for a bit before he said they were also known as camp beds. I knew from my
trips to England that is what they call cots in England. So I asked. "No,
cots are what babies sleep in." "No" says I, "babies sleep in either a crib
or a cradle". "No" says he, "a cradle is only used to rock babies, they
sleep in cots."
Okay, maybe you had to be there to see the humor in it. Graham and I were
having fun, anyway.
After we looked a bit at our budget and activities (and Mark Liechty
complained about going to a Chinese Restaurant on Christmas day), Graham had
finally been able to negotiate a Maori Hangi for Christmas evening. So,
instead of Chinese and Polynesian pools, we will have a Maori Hangi (that is
kind of like a Hawaiian luau, including the pig roasted in the ground) that
includes Maori music, dancing, singing and LOTS of audience participation.
Should be a blast! Do you think we can get Chuck, Graham and me to do the
Haka together? Now THAT ought to be a scary picture! We want all the
ladies in Team 2 to become experts at poi balls before they leave New
Zealand.
Tue, Dec 9, 2008 at 8:23 AM
NINE days to go!
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Can you tell I'm having more fun putting this together than I'll probably
have just going?
Monday, December 8, 2008
Only Ten Days!
Bula!
Can you believe it? Only 10 days!!!
I thought I would point out a couple of things you might want to be on the
lookout for.
Next time you pull the plug on a drain or flush your toilet, pay attention
to which way the water swirls.
Here in the northern hemisphere, the water goes counter clockwise (if
nothing else affects the spin).
Ask your mom or dad what "clockwise" means, for those who are raised in the
digital clock age :-)
Down in New Zealand, however, it turns clockwise. So, pay attention while
you are here so you notice while there.
Another thing to note, that all our boy scouts know, here you can find the
pole star on any clear night throughout the year. You would use the big
dipper to help you find it by following the line from the bowl of the dipper
to the pole star.
Well, in the southern hemisphere, the pole star can't be seen, and much of
the year neither can the big dipper. So you will see an entirely new set of
constellations in the sky, the most well known being the southern cross used
on the New Zealand and Australian national flags. You might want to pay
attention to the night sky over the next few days so you will be able to
note the differences. You will see the familiar zodiac constellations that
occur in the direction of the equator, but to the south you will see an
entirely new sky.
When we get to Fiji, we'll still be in the southern hemisphere, but much
closer to the equator. Check the direction of the water draining and the
night sky to see if you can see the difference there.
They drive on the left side of the road too. Watch your step!
I can't wait!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Can you believe it? Only 10 days!!!
I thought I would point out a couple of things you might want to be on the
lookout for.
Next time you pull the plug on a drain or flush your toilet, pay attention
to which way the water swirls.
Here in the northern hemisphere, the water goes counter clockwise (if
nothing else affects the spin).
Ask your mom or dad what "clockwise" means, for those who are raised in the
digital clock age :-)
Down in New Zealand, however, it turns clockwise. So, pay attention while
you are here so you notice while there.
Another thing to note, that all our boy scouts know, here you can find the
pole star on any clear night throughout the year. You would use the big
dipper to help you find it by following the line from the bowl of the dipper
to the pole star.
Well, in the southern hemisphere, the pole star can't be seen, and much of
the year neither can the big dipper. So you will see an entirely new set of
constellations in the sky, the most well known being the southern cross used
on the New Zealand and Australian national flags. You might want to pay
attention to the night sky over the next few days so you will be able to
note the differences. You will see the familiar zodiac constellations that
occur in the direction of the equator, but to the south you will see an
entirely new sky.
When we get to Fiji, we'll still be in the southern hemisphere, but much
closer to the equator. Check the direction of the water draining and the
night sky to see if you can see the difference there.
They drive on the left side of the road too. Watch your step!
I can't wait!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Friday, December 5, 2008
New Zealand Badge Swopping
Kia Ora!
Well, we have reached the less than two weeks mark. Can you feel the
excitement building?
We are heading out on Thursday, Dec 18, only 13 days from now!!!!
Some of you who received your shirts and stuff by mail may be wondering
about the contents of the package. At the last trek meeting (in November),
we handed out a baggie with some throw-away badges (mostly cub stuff) in
them, and similar baggies were included in the mailed packages. The
question some have asked is "why?"
Well, we had a request from our New Zealand contact that all our
participants "bring lots of badges to swop". We are going to be meeting
with a ***LOT*** of New Zealand scouts. Most of them are going to be quite
a bit younger than our participants. The greatest gift you can give them is
an American scout patch. So, in our effort to encourage all of you to at
least have *something*, we gave you some of what we look at as throw-away
patches. Of course, if you have other patches you want to swop or give
away, by all means, bring them!
"Badge swopping" (which is what the rest of the world call patch trading) is
BIG when scouts get together. Those of you who have been to National
Jamboree or World Jamboree *know* what I am talking about.
As we mentioned during the meeting, if you are not interested in swopping,
please bring some badges anyway, just to give away. Make the day of one of
those NZ scouts! Sure, our own trek badge will be popular, but American
badges, about American events will be very popular as well. If you have a
couple old neckers lying about, you might want to bring them too.
Neckerchief swopping is pretty big as well.
The current NZ scout uniform is a dark green polo shirt with the NZ scout
association logo on it. You probably won't want to swop one of your class
A's for that, but that is up to you, so long as you have at least one class
A for the flight to Fiji at the end. They don't put badges on their uniform
shirt, rather than have what we would call a patch vest that they wear from
squeaker to shaver. Woggles (neckerchief slides) are popular trading items
as well.
Be creative! Remember, part of the reason for this trip is to make new
friends, so just do it! It would be a good idea to bring lots of contact
cards to hand out too.
Neckers will be delivered AT THE AIRPORT.
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Well, we have reached the less than two weeks mark. Can you feel the
excitement building?
We are heading out on Thursday, Dec 18, only 13 days from now!!!!
Some of you who received your shirts and stuff by mail may be wondering
about the contents of the package. At the last trek meeting (in November),
we handed out a baggie with some throw-away badges (mostly cub stuff) in
them, and similar baggies were included in the mailed packages. The
question some have asked is "why?"
Well, we had a request from our New Zealand contact that all our
participants "bring lots of badges to swop". We are going to be meeting
with a ***LOT*** of New Zealand scouts. Most of them are going to be quite
a bit younger than our participants. The greatest gift you can give them is
an American scout patch. So, in our effort to encourage all of you to at
least have *something*, we gave you some of what we look at as throw-away
patches. Of course, if you have other patches you want to swop or give
away, by all means, bring them!
"Badge swopping" (which is what the rest of the world call patch trading) is
BIG when scouts get together. Those of you who have been to National
Jamboree or World Jamboree *know* what I am talking about.
As we mentioned during the meeting, if you are not interested in swopping,
please bring some badges anyway, just to give away. Make the day of one of
those NZ scouts! Sure, our own trek badge will be popular, but American
badges, about American events will be very popular as well. If you have a
couple old neckers lying about, you might want to bring them too.
Neckerchief swopping is pretty big as well.
The current NZ scout uniform is a dark green polo shirt with the NZ scout
association logo on it. You probably won't want to swop one of your class
A's for that, but that is up to you, so long as you have at least one class
A for the flight to Fiji at the end. They don't put badges on their uniform
shirt, rather than have what we would call a patch vest that they wear from
squeaker to shaver. Woggles (neckerchief slides) are popular trading items
as well.
Be creative! Remember, part of the reason for this trip is to make new
friends, so just do it! It would be a good idea to bring lots of contact
cards to hand out too.
Neckers will be delivered AT THE AIRPORT.
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Fiji Golfing
Bula!
Details, details. The devil is always in the details.
Seems the place we are staying in Fiji, Horizon Backpackers, needs to know
who will be playing golf on Dec. 30 or Dec. 28 (can't Dec. 29, we will be
stranded on a desert island). So, please email directly to me (please don't
reply/all) by Dec. 6, 2008 whether and which days. Mind you, I don't think
you'll have much time for golf on Dec 28 - we won't be out of the airport
before 4pm, but you don't have to eat if you don't want to, and golfers are
such a strange lot... Personally, I can't imagine wasting my time chasing
around a little white ball when I can be enjoying the tropic atmosphere...
As of the last correspondence, club rental was FD20, which at current
exchange is about $11 and there is no greens fee. I don't know if they've
increased rental with the stronger dollar.
I remind you that Mark Liechty, from Lincoln, CA, says he is a Golfing MB
counselor and would be happy to sign off on the golfing MB for anyone who
would care to bring a signed blue card and work with him.
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Details, details. The devil is always in the details.
Seems the place we are staying in Fiji, Horizon Backpackers, needs to know
who will be playing golf on Dec. 30 or Dec. 28 (can't Dec. 29, we will be
stranded on a desert island). So, please email directly to me (please don't
reply/all) by Dec. 6, 2008 whether and which days. Mind you, I don't think
you'll have much time for golf on Dec 28 - we won't be out of the airport
before 4pm, but you don't have to eat if you don't want to, and golfers are
such a strange lot... Personally, I can't imagine wasting my time chasing
around a little white ball when I can be enjoying the tropic atmosphere...
As of the last correspondence, club rental was FD20, which at current
exchange is about $11 and there is no greens fee. I don't know if they've
increased rental with the stronger dollar.
I remind you that Mark Liechty, from Lincoln, CA, says he is a Golfing MB
counselor and would be happy to sign off on the golfing MB for anyone who
would care to bring a signed blue card and work with him.
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Monday, November 17, 2008
New Zealand, Publicity, more on European Camp Staff
***TWENTY-NINE*** days to go!
After I posted the link to the NZ scout association website, Graham "sub"
Morine posted (on November 17) a brief write up of our trip on the "chatbox"
found on the right hand side.
See: http://scouts.org.nz/sanz/news.php
As a result, Graham tells me he has been *inundated* with notes from local
scouts who say they are going to come and visit with us at our various
accommodations. Graham urges me to pass on that our participants should be
"sure to bring plenty of badges to swop". So, do NOT forget to pack that
package of badges you got at the last meeting, and bring any others you may
have lying about. Again, even if you are not interested in swopping, you
can still give away!
Make a friend!
I also received a response from BSA on European Camp Staff for 2009.
Attached is the fact sheet from BSA, which includes a link to the European
website that has the list of camps accepting staff. Can you imagine
spending a summer in Denmark? Too cool!
Mon, Nov 17, 2008 at 8:17 AM
Cheers
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
After I posted the link to the NZ scout association website, Graham "sub"
Morine posted (on November 17) a brief write up of our trip on the "chatbox"
found on the right hand side.
See: http://scouts.org.nz/sanz/news.php
As a result, Graham tells me he has been *inundated* with notes from local
scouts who say they are going to come and visit with us at our various
accommodations. Graham urges me to pass on that our participants should be
"sure to bring plenty of badges to swop". So, do NOT forget to pack that
package of badges you got at the last meeting, and bring any others you may
have lying about. Again, even if you are not interested in swopping, you
can still give away!
Make a friend!
I also received a response from BSA on European Camp Staff for 2009.
Attached is the fact sheet from BSA, which includes a link to the European
website that has the list of camps accepting staff. Can you imagine
spending a summer in Denmark? Too cool!
Mon, Nov 17, 2008 at 8:17 AM
Cheers
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Thursday, November 13, 2008
More international opportunities
Okay, I admit it, I am an international scouting junkie.
Trouble is, taking youth on an international trip is sooooo cool, I just
can't help it.
I wanted to highlight another great scouting international opportunity.
European Camp Staff.
Close your eyes and picture this: Summer in the Austrian Alps, with young
people your own age (of both sexes), all scouts.
For almost free.
Okay, do you have that picture in your mind? That is European camp staff.
If you are from 18-30 years of age, BSA has a program where you can
volunteer for camp staff at a limited number of European scout camps
(examples include Gilwell in England, Vassaro in Sweden, Zellhof in Austria,
Kandersteg in Switzerland, etc.). You commit to a length of time depending
on the camp (Gilwell as short as 4 weeks, Vassaro 6 and Kandersteg 12, as
examples). You pay for the flight to Europe. The camp provides you room
and board in exchange for spending a great summer. If you fulfill your
commitment, BSA will pay you half your airfare. If they have extra in the
budget, they may pay more (last two summers, they paid full air fare).
Before or after your commitment, you are free to do whatever you want, tour
Europe, hang with your new scout friends, whatever.
If you use youth hostels and get a rail pass, that European touring option
is pretty reasonable. However, we have found that instead, our European
Camp Staff end up getting invited to visit and stay with their new European
scout friends. Last year, a scout who went To Vassaro was then invited to
staff the Swedish National Jamboree. Another was invited on a special
expedition in the Alps. You just never know where it will lead you.
All that for half air fare. Can you believe the opportunity? That doesn't
happen every day, you know.
Sure, it takes a special sort to do this. You have to be 18, and you have
to have parents who will support you having a summer off work and school.
Also, Kandersteg takes short term staff at other times of year, if you have
an interest in taking a semester off for this excellent opportunity.
You would be surprised how much fun you would have.
So, if you find this interesting, contact me for the application and list of
camps.
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Trouble is, taking youth on an international trip is sooooo cool, I just
can't help it.
I wanted to highlight another great scouting international opportunity.
European Camp Staff.
Close your eyes and picture this: Summer in the Austrian Alps, with young
people your own age (of both sexes), all scouts.
For almost free.
Okay, do you have that picture in your mind? That is European camp staff.
If you are from 18-30 years of age, BSA has a program where you can
volunteer for camp staff at a limited number of European scout camps
(examples include Gilwell in England, Vassaro in Sweden, Zellhof in Austria,
Kandersteg in Switzerland, etc.). You commit to a length of time depending
on the camp (Gilwell as short as 4 weeks, Vassaro 6 and Kandersteg 12, as
examples). You pay for the flight to Europe. The camp provides you room
and board in exchange for spending a great summer. If you fulfill your
commitment, BSA will pay you half your airfare. If they have extra in the
budget, they may pay more (last two summers, they paid full air fare).
Before or after your commitment, you are free to do whatever you want, tour
Europe, hang with your new scout friends, whatever.
If you use youth hostels and get a rail pass, that European touring option
is pretty reasonable. However, we have found that instead, our European
Camp Staff end up getting invited to visit and stay with their new European
scout friends. Last year, a scout who went To Vassaro was then invited to
staff the Swedish National Jamboree. Another was invited on a special
expedition in the Alps. You just never know where it will lead you.
All that for half air fare. Can you believe the opportunity? That doesn't
happen every day, you know.
Sure, it takes a special sort to do this. You have to be 18, and you have
to have parents who will support you having a summer off work and school.
Also, Kandersteg takes short term staff at other times of year, if you have
an interest in taking a semester off for this excellent opportunity.
You would be surprised how much fun you would have.
So, if you find this interesting, contact me for the application and list of
camps.
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Other international opportunities
Kia Ora! (that is the New Zealand Maori greeting)
I wanted to take this opportunity to mention a great opportunity that is
available in scouting. For the last few years, BSA has been having
international friendship exchanges where a small contingent of BSA youth
would be put together to be wined and dined (well, maybe not *wine*) by a
scout association in another country. Japan has been hosting two per year,
and last winter they had a scout winter Olympics at Kandersteg in
Switzerland. This summer there was a Philmont intl exchange where a group
of intl scouts teamed with a group of US scouts to do a trek.
The Intl Friendship exchange is subsidized by the host country, and the
typical fee for the US scout has been around $500 plus transportation to
Dallas. For a two week experience where the scouts of another country have,
as their prime motivation, the intent to show you the best time of your
life, that is pretty hard to beat.
In order to be selected, you must be nominated by the Council International
Representative. To be nominated, you have to fill out the attached form
(there is a youth form and adult form) and return it to me or to council.
We rarely know more than two months ahead when one of these come up, but the
last Japan Intl exchange was selected entirely off the existing list.
Now that you have up-to-date passports and are getting a taste of
international travel with scouts, I'm sure you can see that this would be a
tremendous opportunity if you get picked.
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
I wanted to take this opportunity to mention a great opportunity that is
available in scouting. For the last few years, BSA has been having
international friendship exchanges where a small contingent of BSA youth
would be put together to be wined and dined (well, maybe not *wine*) by a
scout association in another country. Japan has been hosting two per year,
and last winter they had a scout winter Olympics at Kandersteg in
Switzerland. This summer there was a Philmont intl exchange where a group
of intl scouts teamed with a group of US scouts to do a trek.
The Intl Friendship exchange is subsidized by the host country, and the
typical fee for the US scout has been around $500 plus transportation to
Dallas. For a two week experience where the scouts of another country have,
as their prime motivation, the intent to show you the best time of your
life, that is pretty hard to beat.
In order to be selected, you must be nominated by the Council International
Representative. To be nominated, you have to fill out the attached form
(there is a youth form and adult form) and return it to me or to council.
We rarely know more than two months ahead when one of these come up, but the
last Japan Intl exchange was selected entirely off the existing list.
Now that you have up-to-date passports and are getting a taste of
international travel with scouts, I'm sure you can see that this would be a
tremendous opportunity if you get picked.
Cheers!
Don Roberts
Trek Organizer
Sunday, September 28, 2008
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