Niuatoputapu

This photo demonstrates the incredible generosity of the folks we met in Niuatoputapu. What you may miss is that both ladies are fanning Libby and me!. I was outside talking to the lady on the left and felt so hot I just had to go into the shade. This brought us into the government buildings. Actually we're sitting in the judges chambers. Behind the louvered glass is immigration. The official representative is the lady in the mat. The little boy is her son.

Vava'u

I have to say that it's fascinating to see people dressed like this! These ladies are dressed for mourning as well as coming home from Church. the red scarf denotes a particular religious denomination. Also notice the umbrella to shield the sun.

Ha'apai

The Ha'apai group of islands are all pretty rural and agricultural. Typically people live in villages. The animals run around and peoples' yards are usually fenced in to keep them out. This display of fruit, vegetables and fish is part of a religious observance that we were privileged to attend. I've chosen this shot to represent the Ha'apais because of its rural setting

Tongatapu

Tongatapu is the major stepping off place for New Zealand as the hurricane season starts to approach. Before the yachts leave for the south the yachties often gather and compare notes. They're interested in talking about weather and strategy for the trip. Having done the trip four times now our conclusion is the same as that of many Kiwis: Pick what seems like a good time and GO. We had our best trip yet by pointing our boat straight toward the Bay of Islands and sailing when we could and (after filling up on fuel) turning on the iron genny and keep going.