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New Zealand - Blog Posts
I wonder how the Kiwi lady who makes the Ryan Gosling dish towels is doing? specially with Barbie, now she can add Bandana Ryan to her arsenal of Ryan faces...
(the interview, for yalls viewing pleasure https://youtu.be/PCQeKU1t1do?si=kgHl7Zxd98JnpAHN)
Flash Mob Haka.
Auckland, New Zealand.
Rugby World Cup 2011.
from a 1news article about banks blocking transactions to cuba, despite the government not having any limitations on it. utterly fucking batshit that america can enforce its sanctions in other countries and this is somehow tolerated.
Our Planet: 8 Stunning Views of Earth from Space
Swirling clouds, deep blue oceans and textured land- and icescapes are among the many faces of our planet revealed in NASA’s new photo-essay book: Earth. This collection of 69 images captured by satellites tells a story of a 4.5-billion-year-old planet where there is always something new to see. Earth is a beautiful, awe-inspiring place, and it is the only world most of us will ever know. It is your planet. It is NASA’s mission. The book is available now in hardcover and ebook, and online with interactive features.
Here are eight of those breathtaking images for your viewing pleasure.
Channel Country, Australia
These wide floodplains in Queensland, Australia are unique on the planet. Scientists think they are caused by the extreme variation in water and sediment discharges from the rivers. In many years there is no rainfall at all, and the rivers are effectively non-existent. In years of modest rainfall, the main channels will carry some water, sometimes spilling over into narrow water holes known as billabongs.
Every few decades, the floodplain carries extremely high discharges of water. For instance, tropical storms to the north can lead to great water flows that inundate the entire width of the floodplain. On such occasions, the floodplain appears as series of brown and green water surfaces with only tree tops indicating the location of the islands. Such is the case in this image taken from the International Space Station in September 2016.
Grounded in the Caspian, Kazakhstan
A wide variety of ice forms in the Caspian Sea, which stretches from Kazakhstan to Iran. Just offshore, a well-developed expanse of consolidated ice appears bright white. Farther offshore, a gray-white field of chunky, hummocked ice has detached and is slowly drifting around a polynya, an area of open water surrounded by sea ice. That darker patch is actually growing young, thin ice and nilas, a term that designates sea ice crust up to 10 centimeters (4 inches) in thickness.
The close-up shows nilas and a white, diamond-shaped piece of ice. It might look like this chunk is on the move, cutting a path through thinner ice. But it’s more likely that the “diamond” was stuck to the sea bottom and the wind pushed ice around it.
Tsauchab River Bed, Namibia
The Tsauchab River is a famous landmark for the people of Namibia and tourists. Yet few people have ever seen the river flowing with water. In December 2009, an astronaut on the International Space Station caught this glimpse of the Tsauchab River bed jutting into the sea of red dunes. It ends in a series of light-colored, silty mud holes on the dry lake floor.
Like several other rivers around the Namib Desert, the Tsauchab brings sediment down from the hinterland toward the coastal lowland. This sediment is then blown from the river beds, and over tens of millions of years it has accumulated as the red dunes of the Namib Sand Sea.
Taranaki and Egmont, New Zealand
The circular pattern of New Zealand’s Egmont National Park stands out from space as a human fingerprint on the landscape. The park protects the forested and snow-capped slopes around Mount Taranaki (Mount Egmont to British settlers). It was established in 1900, when officials drew a radius of 10 kilometers around the volcanic peak. The colors differentiate the protected forest (dark green) from once-forested pasturelands (light- and brown-green).
Named by the native Maori people, Taranaki stands 2,518 meters (8,260 feet) tall, and it is one of the world’s most symmetric volcanoes. It first became active about 135,000 years ago. By dating lava flows, geologists have figured out that small eruptions occur roughly every 90 years and major eruptions every 500 years. Landsat 8 acquired this image of Taranaki and the park in July 2014.
Storms Stir Up Sediment in Bermuda
In October 2014, the eye of Hurricane Gonzalo passed right over Bermuda. In the process, the potent storm stirred up the sediments in the shallow bays and lagoons around the island, spreading a huge mass of sediment across the North Atlantic Ocean. This Landsat 8 image shows the area after Gonzalo passed through.
The suspended sediments were likely a combination of beach sand and carbonate sediments from around the shallows and reefs. Coral reefs can produce large amounts of calcium carbonate, which stays on the reef flats (where there are coralline algae that also produce carbonate) and builds up over time to form islands.
Framing an Iceberg in the South Atlantic Ocean
In June 2016, the Suomi NPP satellite captured this image of various cloud formations in the South Atlantic Ocean. Note how low stratus clouds framed a hole over iceberg A-56 as it drifted across the sea.
The exact reason for the hole in the clouds is somewhat of a mystery. It could have formed by chance, although imagery from the days before and after this date suggest something else was at work. It could be that the relatively unobstructed path of the clouds over the ocean surface was interrupted by thermal instability created by the iceberg. In other words, if an obstacle is big enough, it can divert the low-level atmospheric flow of air around it, a phenomenon often caused by islands.
Lofted Over Land in Madagascar
Along the muddy Mania River, midday clouds form over the forested land but not the water. In the tropical rainforests of Madagascar, there is ample moisture for cloud formation. Sunlight heats the land all day, warming that moist air and causing it to rise high into the atmosphere until it cools and condenses into water droplets. Clouds generally form where air is ascending (over land in this case), but not where it is descending (over the river). Landsat 8 acquired this image in January 2015.
A Lava Lamp Look at the Atlantic Ocean
Stretching from tropical Florida to the doorstep of Europe, the Gulf Stream carries a lot of heat, salt, and history. This river of water is an important part of the global ocean conveyor belt, moving water and heat from the Equator toward the far North Atlantic. It is one of the strongest currents on Earth and one of the most studied. Its discovery is often attributed to Benjamin Franklin, though sailors likely knew about the current long before they had a name for it.
This image shows a small portion of the Gulf Stream off of South Carolina as it appeared in infrared data collected by the Landsat 8 satellite in April 2013. Colors represent the energy—heat—being emitted by the water, with cooler temperatures in purple and the warmest water being nearly white. Note how the Gulf Stream is not a uniform band but instead has finer streams and pockets of warmer and colder water.
These images are just a few from our new book called Earth. Explore the other 61 images here.
Make sure to follow us on Tumblr for your regular dose of space: http://nasa.tumblr.com
Sustainable Accommodations: Best Eco-Lodges and Hotels Worldwide
The way we travel has a profound impact on the planet. One of the best ways to reduce your environmental footprint is by choosing accommodations that prioritize sustainability. Thankfully, eco-lodges and green hotels around the world are leading the charge in eco-conscious hospitality. From lush rainforests to urban oases, here’s a guide to some of the best sustainable stays that promise comfort, luxury, and care for the environment.
1. Soneva Fushi – Maldives
Nestled in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi is a luxurious eco-resort that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. The resort is powered by solar energy and features a world-class waste management system. Guests can indulge in stunning overwater villas, dine at zero-waste restaurants, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, knowing their stay supports sustainability.
2. Fogo Island Inn – Canada
Located on a remote island off Newfoundland, Fogo Island Inn is an architectural gem committed to sustainability. This eco-conscious retreat uses locally sourced materials, supports the island’s economy, and reinvests its profits into the community. With breathtaking ocean views, a cozy Nordic aesthetic, and locally inspired cuisine, it’s a haven for eco-conscious travelers.
3. Treehotel – Sweden
If you’ve ever dreamed of sleeping in a treehouse, Treehotel in Sweden is the place for you. Each uniquely designed cabin is suspended among the trees, offering stunning views of the Swedish forest. The hotel operates with a minimal environmental footprint, using renewable energy and sustainable building materials.
4. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve – South Africa
For those seeking a safari experience with a sustainable twist, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve in South Africa is a must-visit. This eco-lodge supports local conservation efforts and community programs while offering luxurious accommodations. Explore fynbos-covered landscapes, go on guided nature walks, or enjoy fine dining with farm-to-table ingredients.
5. Hoshinoya Karuizawa – Japan
Located in a tranquil forest in Japan, Hoshinoya Karuizawa is a resort that exemplifies harmony with nature. Powered by geothermal energy, the resort offers serene hot springs, minimalist Japanese architecture, and locally sourced cuisine. It’s the perfect blend of luxury and sustainability.
6. Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel – Switzerland
Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel offers a unique glamping experience in geodesic domes. The pods are energy-efficient and designed to minimize their impact on the environment. Guests can enjoy stunning alpine views, hike through pristine trails, and embrace the beauty of the mountains.
7. El Nido Resorts – Philippines
El Nido Resorts in Palawan is a stunning example of sustainable tourism. Surrounded by turquoise waters and lush jungles, the resort operates with solar energy, marine conservation programs, and eco-friendly designs. Guests can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring hidden lagoons, all while preserving the natural beauty of the Philippines.
8. Lapa Rios Lodge – Costa Rica
Lapa Rios Lodge is a true eco-tourism pioneer, set in the heart of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula. This lodge protects over 1,000 acres of rainforest, supports local communities, and uses sustainable practices in its operations. Guests can immerse themselves in the wild beauty of Costa Rica while enjoying eco-luxury at its finest.
9. Camp Glenorchy – New Zealand
Located near Queenstown, Camp Glenorchy is New Zealand’s first net-zero energy retreat. It incorporates sustainable building practices, solar power, and rainwater collection systems. Guests can enjoy cozy accommodations, stunning mountain views, and a deep sense of connection with nature.
10. Six Senses Ninh Van Bay – Vietnam
Six Senses resorts are known for their commitment to sustainability, and Ninh Van Bay is no exception. Perched on a remote bay in Vietnam, this resort combines luxury with eco-consciousness. From farm-to-table dining to marine conservation programs, it offers an indulgent yet environmentally friendly escape.
Why Choose Sustainable Accommodations?
Staying in eco-friendly accommodations doesn’t just enhance your travel experience—it helps protect the planet. These lodges and hotels prioritize energy efficiency, reduce waste, support local communities, and often reinvest in conservation programs. By choosing these options, you contribute to sustainable tourism and ensure that future generations can enjoy these incredible destinations.
Top Eco-Friendly Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List
Traveling sustainably doesn’t mean compromising on breathtaking experiences. Around the world, stunning destinations are leading the charge in eco-tourism, offering travelers opportunities to explore responsibly while supporting conservation and local communities. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply looking for guilt-free luxury, these eco-friendly spots deserve a spot on your bucket list.
1. Costa Rica: A Pioneer in Eco-Tourism
Costa Rica has long been a leader in sustainable tourism, protecting over 25% of its land as national parks and reserves. Known for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife, it’s the perfect place for adventure and relaxation. Visit eco-lodges, join guided wildlife tours, and zipline through the treetops, all while supporting conservation efforts.
2. Bhutan: The Carbon-Negative Kingdom
Bhutan is the only carbon-negative country in the world, prioritizing environmental protection and sustainable development. The country’s strict tourism policy focuses on low-impact, high-value travel. Visitors can explore breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, vibrant monasteries, and rich traditions while contributing to Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its pristine environment.
3. Finland: Europe’s Greenest Destination
Ranked one of the most sustainable destinations in the world, Finland offers eco-conscious travelers pristine lakes, dense forests, and clean air. Opt for a stay in eco-cabins, immerse yourself in the country’s sauna culture, or visit Lapland to witness the magic of the Northern Lights. Finland’s focus on renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure makes it a green traveler’s paradise.
4. New Zealand: Land of Adventure and Conservation
With its breathtaking fjords, mountains, and unique biodiversity, New Zealand is a dream destination for nature lovers. The country is committed to preserving its landscapes and wildlife, offering eco-tourism activities like guided nature walks, whale watching, and stays in eco-friendly accommodations.
5. Kenya: Safaris with a Purpose
Kenya offers unforgettable wildlife experiences while championing conservation. Many safari lodges operate with sustainability at their core, working to protect endangered species and support local communities. From the Maasai Mara to Amboseli, you can experience the beauty of Africa while ensuring your visit contributes to its future.
6. Slovenia: A Hidden Green Gem
This small European country is making big waves in sustainable tourism. With its abundance of green spaces, eco-certified accommodations, and locally sourced cuisine, Slovenia offers a perfect blend of adventure and sustainability. Visit Lake Bled, hike in Triglav National Park, or explore Ljubljana, one of Europe’s greenest capitals.
7. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador: A Haven for Biodiversity
The Galápagos Islands are a treasure trove of unique wildlife and landscapes. Strict visitor regulations ensure that tourism here remains eco-friendly and doesn’t harm the fragile ecosystem. Snorkeling, kayaking, and guided tours let you witness the islands’ wonders while supporting preservation efforts.
8. Iceland: Where Nature Takes the Lead
Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes, from glaciers to geysers, are matched by its commitment to sustainability. Nearly 100% of the country’s energy comes from renewable sources. Visitors can explore geothermal spas, hike on volcanic trails, or watch puffins in their natural habitat, all while supporting Iceland’s eco-friendly initiatives.
9. The Azores, Portugal: An Atlantic Eco-Paradise
This archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean is a haven for sustainable travelers. Known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and vibrant marine life, the Azores offer eco-conscious accommodations and activities like whale watching, hiking, and geothermal bathing.
10. Palau: A Tiny Nation with Big Goals
This Pacific Island nation is a model for marine conservation. Palau has created the world’s first shark sanctuary and enforces strict eco-tourism policies to protect its coral reefs and marine life. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, explore WWII relics, or relax on pristine beaches while contributing to a sustainable future.
Why Choose Eco-Friendly Destinations?
Traveling to eco-friendly destinations not only allows you to explore the beauty of our planet but also ensures your adventures have a positive impact. These destinations prioritize the environment, support local communities, and offer experiences that are both memorable and meaningful.
Review: Black Sheep (2006)
Rating: 8.5 of 10
Let me explain you this lightly; Black Sheep is a sheep zombie movie (and in case you're wondering, yes the movie's from New Zealand). If that doesn't sound like something you'd like then stay clear, but if it sounds interesting to you then definitely go for it.
In this story, Henry Oldfield (Nathan Meister) comes home to family farm, Glenholden Station, after years of living in the city, only to find out there's more sinister things going on involving genetically engineered sheep.
Black Sheep is a gory, survival horror movie--one that plays off of a bizzarely unusual premise. But it works! It plays off entirely straight, especially at the beginning, but slowly and surely it sucks you in into its absurdity, sprinkled with a healthy amount of dark comedy. It's ultimately a B-movie, that's for sure, but Black Sheep has way more dignity than it has any right to be. It has charming and relatable lead characters, beautiful cinematography, and legitimately good score throughout. It's an unexpectedly competent, ridiculously insane movie.
Also, it has a way better special effects than you'd expect (that still looks good even 10 years later), with both believable animals and gore. It even has a transformation scene reminiscent of that classic werewolf transformation scene in An American Werewolf In London (although not as lengthy), which is not a bad thing at all. Believe me, sheep in this movie are absolutely terrifying.
TL;DR Fully embracing its gleefully absurd, blood-soaked story, Black Sheep is definitely a movie worthy of a cult attention.
Bonus: Trailer for Black Sheep! (viewer discretion is advised, so is for the movie)
The Scenic Abel Tasman Coast Track - New Zealand
Arranged on the South Islands northern shores the Abel Tasman Coast Track is a standout amongst the most stunning strolls in New Zealand It has every one of the fixings to make it a definitive outside experience center point
The track is a piece of the Abel Tasman National Park which is talented with excellent brilliant shorelines waterfront woodlands remote narrows beautiful rock bluffs all combined with a perfect atmosphere The track stretches out to around 54 kilometers and highlights tidal intersections and connected streams It will take you all things considered three to five days to get to its opposite side however it could in all probability be one best climbing encounters youll at any point had in your life zion national park
Day strolls around the Abel Tasman are free You can get to the trail through street end vehicle leaves You likewise dont need to walk the whole way You have the choice to jump on water cabs or kayak to achieve shorelines dabbing the coast Along Abel Tasman Coast Track you will discover campgrounds and cabins that you can lease for the evening Outdoors is really a primary movement on the track There are 18 campgrounds to look over and they are altogether strategically placed alongside shocking brilliant shorelines One of the longest and most beautiful shorelines in the recreation center is Onetahuti Beach which is molded like a steed shoe Here you can swim swim and sunbathe throughout the day related article
Another shocking waterway is the Te Pukatea Bay which takes up the state of a bow This wonderful narrows is only an hour leave the recorded site of Pitt Head Climbing this course offers you fantastic picturesque perspectives Simply adjacent the national park is the Tonga Island Marine Reserve which envelops a zone of 1835 hectares A portion of the exercises that you can do while at the hold are swimming kayaking and obviously swimming Whats more in the event that you achieve the Torrent Bay estuary you are just 20 minutes from the heavenly normal shake pool with a waterslide named Cleopatras Pool
Beside campgrounds you likewise have the alternative to remain in a close-by town There are likewise different towns where you can unwind and investigate These towns incorporate Motueka Takaka and Nelson and all have shops bistros and convenience too tramping and kayaking offices
Various nearby suppliers offer completely guided excursions around the Abel Tasman Coastal Track Beside getting the help of experienced visit manage you will likewise get the chance to utilize the organizations gear Be that as it may it is entirely conceivable to sort out the climb autonomously on the off chance that you do the best possible arranging and research Point by point track portrayals and other profitable data are given on the official site of the Department of Conservation
Previous Article
5 Weirdest Facts About New Zealand
Guests come to New Zealand anticipating something exceptional and extraordinary to have an ideal experience that they will always remember Beside the shocking normal miracles New Zealand is additionally the words self-announced extraordinary games capital Skydiving bungy hopping whitewater boating waterway boarding and numerous other experience encounters for thrill seekers possess large amounts of this magnificent nation Numerous guests discover the need to take out movement protection with a unique arrangement to cover exceptional games and exercises
As much as there are numerous critical spots to visit and stand-out encounters in New Zealand there are strange realities that make the nation just emerge over the rest Guests will be charmed to find these five most abnormal actualities about New Zealand
1 Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu
Truly there is no typographical mistake you read it effectively This is a 85-letter Maori name for a slope that neglects Hawke Bay New Zealand This is a generally conventional slope 305 meters high What makes it extraordinary is that it is the worlds longest spot name as indicated by the Guinness World Records The name is generally deciphered as The summit where Tamatea the man with huge knees the climber of mountains the land swallower who went about played his nose woodwind to his cherished one Hawkes Bay where the slope is found offers a ton of exercises for guests with their bicycle trails excellent pinnacles shocking lakes and a standout amongst the most looked for after waterfront resorts in the nation Waimarama Beach
2 Populace of New Zealand - 6 sheep to each 1 human
The present populace of New Zealand is 45 million people and 276 million sheep During the 80s sheep numbers hit a high with 70 million for each 22 people While the sheep populace altogether diminished in the previous couple of years New Zealand still has a solid hang on the sheep meat industry acquiring $7 billion every year in fare income
3 Te Waikoropupu Springs can give drinking water to the whole New Zealand populace
In New Zealands south island there is an absolute necessity see area in a spot called Golden Bay in the Takaka zone Te Waikoropupu Springs These are the biggest freshwater springs in the nation and the biggest virus water springs in the Southern Hemisphere These springs are a record breaker from multiple points of view They produce more new water than some other springs in the whole world truth be told enough to give drinking water to the whole populace of New Zealand It produces two billion liters of water and it has one of the most clear normal waters It is clear to the point that you can see 63 meters through it related article
4 The worlds biggest known volcanic ejection in 70000 years
Lake Taupo is the area of the worlds biggest known volcanic emission over the most recent 70000 years Current Lake Taupo New Zealands biggest lake is one of the aftereffects of the colossal ejection The emission is a progression of occasions coming full circle in an exceptionally huge impact that influenced a land territory of 20000 square kilometers It was such an immense emission that the residue of the super-volcanic ejection could be found in cutting edge China Lake Taupo is one of New Zealands most mainstream vacationer goals It has a great deal of energizing exercises and places to visit for example a touring outing to Huka Falls an investigation of Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings and a climb to the sacrosanct heaps of Tongariro National Park
5 New Zealand adores ladies
New Zealand was the primary country to have widespread suffrage for the two people in 1893 In a trailblazing enactment Governor Lord Glasgow marked a law which made New Zealand the main self-overseeing nation on the planet in which ladies reserved the privilege to cast a ballot in parliamentary decisions Different majority rule governments on the planet including Great Britain the United States Canada and Australia did not reserve ladies privilege to cast a ballot until after the World War I Another lady Queen Elizabeth II is formally the ruler of New Zealanders spoken to by a Governor General In another trailblazing move for ladies in the mid 2000s New Zealand was the primary nation on the planet to have its three key protected places of intensity held at the same time by ladies The Prime Minister the Governor General and the Chief Justice were all ladies previous article
Exterior - Modern Exterior Huge minimalist gray three-story concrete exterior home photo with a metal roof
“What We do in the Shadows“ (2014),
Dir: Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, DoP: Richard Bluck and D.J. Stipsen. Mockumentary
From @bipanlibrary on instagram:
Scan via Te Ara, The Encyclopedia of New Zealand.
A promotional poster for the Wellington, NZ Bisexual Women's Group in 1991.
waitomo glowworm caves, new zealand.
Went to Milford sound today and did this watercolor page in my sketchbook, it was so fun!
Roof Extensions - Transitional Deck
Just another day in New Zealand.
Winter Tree in Ellerslie, Auckland New Zealand. (Taken with Instagram)
