We were well aware that the North Island of New Zealand had had torrential rains with ‘slips” (landslides) in the Mount Maunganui area. Thanks to having friends in the area, we were also well aware that we should stick to our plans. Here’s Mount Maunganui as we previously knew it.

And here’s the ‘Mount’ as it looks today with the fencing and very highly controlled entry.

As we walked nearby, we saw the huge display of flowers that had been left in memory of the 10 people who lost their lives as a result of the devastating rains and slips in the area.

More New Zealand posts to follow.