I just spent three weeks in your fair country and Vicki asked me to send some impressions. Of course, three weeks is nothing, so if any of this is completely off base, my apologies in advance.

Overall I was blown away by how friendly and helpful you people are, and that was everywhere I went, except maybe Queenstown, where an international Whistler-type atmosphere prevails 😊. You (they) were so helpful that when my husband lost his wallet, he was tracked down on Facebook, the wallet transported through various carriers, and everything was intact upon its return.

Your physical setting is very similar to our exquisite Southern BC, except you have it made with far more coastline. The things that impressed me the most were these:

Integration of the Maori – I was on the original Treaty grounds in Paihea for Waitangi Day and it was fascinating. My impressions were supplemented with the rather unconstrained interviews on Radio New Zealand. The Maori may not be completely happy with their situation, but it is light years ahead of our relationships with First Nations in Canada.

Urban design – Christchurch blew me away. I was inspired by the creativity and forward-thinking behind all of the new works that are bringing public art, ecology, active transportation, way-finding and delight into the City. I was compelled to play in the Margaret Mahy Family Playground, which is something I’ve not done in many years. I would love to be in touch with the designer or project manager. Auckland has some pretty cool things happening too.

Trail infrastructure – I biked the Alps 2 Ocean trail and was so impressed with the many design adaptations and locations where the trail was sited. The way-finding was fantastic and the investment in trails made me envious. Is it true that the country is investing $50 million in cycle trails? I would appreciate any information or manual on the off-road bike infrastructure. The hiking network was excellent too. I hiked the Routeburn Track and enjoyed some of the lovely park structures at the staging and rest areas.

Public washrooms – On all of our recent parks and recreation planning projects here, communities express discontent about the insufficient and substandard washrooms. In New Zealand, even in small communities, the shiny automated stalls are not only clean and attractive, but they talk and play music. Equally impressive were the temporary composting outhouses at Waitangi Day.