A day with Dr. Walsby

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Breakfast was much better today with not so many people rushing to get food, beautiful sunny day with the view from the restaurant clear. We were introduced to Dr. John Walsby, marine biologist, first through a lecture in the morning called "the coast line of Aukland." Then through an all day field trip of the North Shore. He was with us the whole day and basically gave us his wealth of knowledge on vulcanology, oceanography, flora and fauna, military strategy/history, paleantology, geology, and any thing else we asked about. He was very energetic, always finding the highest place to stand lecture us. He was personable and enthusiastic and moved so much that the microphone system on the bus would give him lots of static. But we ate up every word and had to work to keep up with him mentally and physically. Marty beach-combed a bit and collected some shells reminding me of childhood days at Montara, Ca and my mom. A lovely day with beautiful weather.

We are having trouble getting photographs into this blog. We will keep trying to find a way.

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Photos

Dr. John Walsby
We learn about the volcanic lake

Dr. John Walsby
Dr Walsby presents the flora and fauna

Dr. John Walsby
Dr Walsby now talks about the volcanic rocks at the beach

Dr. John Walsby
Dr Walsby always seeks the most dramatic spot to lecture us

Pohutukawa Tree
New Zealand's Christmas Tree because it blooms in the spring (November - December)