In 1817 a large group of Scottish people, were forced to leave the highlands of Scotland, and began quite a remarkable migration, first to the new world and then on to New Zealand.

In Nova Scotia these Scots built a community, but the very cold winters, combined with potato blight and crop failure, imposed an extreme hardship, and they decided that Australia might provide a better future for their community.

They built their own ships, prepared food, settled their affairs and set sail on an expedition, for five months or more, to the other side of the world. They did not find what they were looking for in Australia, so they moved to New Zealand in 1853. Once in New Zealand, they established a close knit and highly successful community in Waipu.

This Scottish community is still strong today, and for the past 140 years, on New Year's Day, Waipu holds a Highland Games and Music Competition. Since the first we had heard of this event, we planned to go. Two days ago, a boat arrived and docked next to us. It was crewed by a very special family,(including three really nice children and a great dog) who quickly won our hearts. It turned out that Phil, the father of the gang, is a musician who would be playing in the bagpipe competition.

So, we spent a super day enjoying the games, the piping, the drums, and fiddle competitions. (We do admit to sneaking away to the local pizza house for lunch). It was fun to serve as part of the cheering section for our new friend, Phil. He did very well, and won an award. But mostly, this day exemplified both cruising in general and visiting New Zealand for us. Meeting special people and bonding in just a short time is quite amazing. And then to kick it up a notch, some of the nicest people we have had the pleasure of meeting are residents of this great country. We are happy. It really is a "Happy New Year."