What a day. After seeing Rangitoto from every angle and part of Auckland and surrounding areas, we finally climbed/tramped her today. She is the youngest volcano of the 48/52 (debatable) volcanic cones in Auckland, at 600 years. Up was a nice workout - bit strenuous as neared top as pretty steep. It took about 45 minutes - but we veered off and went to the Lava Caves first. Loved those! Once up top - views amazing. We did a loop around the top after lunch and then ventured down another way. This one was 20 minutes built walkway comprised of mostly steps and then a dirt path for another hour. Much easier, but not as much to see. Volcanic rock on sides of path and crumbles of it in the path - so bumpy. It's amazing to now look at Rangitoto and think 'Did that' and 'Been at the top of that - and hiked to get there.' Really cool.
After working on it all day yesterday and bits and pieces as could today, the team gave our farewell presentation tonight. We leave for Tahiti Thursday and the return just to jump back on a plane home on the 19th. So hard to believe the farewell is already here. There were a great number of people there and many faces we were so so happy to see again. We've really fallen for these wonderful people and it was great to see them tonight and for them to support us and hear about our experience. The evening, after dinner, began with an amazing performance by uni students locally. It was absolutely amazing. I will post on youtube hopefully tomorrow and then post the link. A few nice words and then our presentation which the team did smashing! As team leader - I can say they did fantastic and give them big kudos. It was very well received.
I have also visited with the Tongan Health Society, which works with Procare to serve Tongan populations. The Tongan Health Society has 100% of their board being of Tongan descent. I visited with their nutritionist and viewed some of their health promotional materials available in Tongan. I also met their Medical Director to learn more about access barriers unique to Pacific Islanders. This was helpful as Christina and Valita showed me different services, including their community gardens, they provide as a Parrish Nurse and Community Health Coordinator. Thank you also to Sam as well! Finally, Mele- I learned so much from your enthusiasm and dedication!
