Tasman Sea

One of the most beautiful spots I have seen so far is overlooking the Tasman Sea. The spot where we stopped is very unique; one of the only places in the world that has a harbor on both sides of the city. This is because Auckland is located on a narrow isthmus that borders two separate bodies of water; one on each side.

So Where is Auckland?

Located on the North Island, Auckland is New Zealand's most urban area, home to one fourth of the nation's entire population of 4,161,743 (compare that to the US). The city doesn't seem very dense, but when you are used to living in Los Angeles, only New York city seems worse.

Beagle Brigade to the Rescue

Going to New Zealand is a long trip. After fourteen hours flying (and having lost an entire day - due to crossing the International Date Line) I arrived in Aukland, New Zealand, anxious to get to a hotel and shower. The Kiwi airport security had other plans. It seems the Kiwis are very particular about what people bring into their lovely country.

There are cute little beagles on leashes, with identification that proves them to be police dogs. They belong to the MAF force - a company of dogs whose job it is to sniff out unwanted substances. MAF employs beagles as part of the "Beagle Brigade," a band of canines trained to sniff out substances in public. Beagles are among the world's best sniffers, and can find traces of banana in a bag long after the banana was eaten. I can testify. New Zealand's Quaratine Service keeps a strict watch over the rare native species in their isolated nation. Good thing, too. New Zealand is home to many plants and animals found no place else in the world.