After another briefing session on Monday morning, we packed up (easier said than done) and got on the bus for the Marae. We were told that there was going to be a surprise along the way. While I was expecting something only semi-exciting, I was pleasantly surprised when we pulled up to a winery. We first got a tour of the vineyard before heading inside for our tastings. It was so fun to try the different wines, although I still don't understand how they come up with such eloquent and ornate descriptions for a simple sip of wine. Perhaps such a skill comes with age. Nonetheless, I had a great time.

Soon after leaving the winery, we arrived at the Marae. Although we had been prepared for what to expect, my eyes were still quite opened from the moment we arrived. We formed a semi-circle with girls in the front and boys in the back to "protect" us. After several chants and other rituals, we were welcomed inside. We took our shoes off and proceeded to greet each of the present Maoris by shaking their hand while touching our noses and foreheads with theirs. In their culture, this is equivalent to shaking someone's hand and introducing yourself. We then sat and watched/listened to their ritual dances and chants. It was such a cool thing to be a part of. I was amazed at how nice and genuine they all were. Furthermore, I couldn't believe the joy they had in representing their culture. I hope to one day be as passionate about anything as they are about their heritage. They then served us dinner and we settled in for a nice, cozy slumber party -- all 55 of us.

The top picture is during one of the dances the Maori people put on for us -- so cool. The bottom photo is from the vineyard we went to on our way to the Marae.

I thought I'd leave you guys with a few lyrics from a song we learned in Maori.

Te aroha
Te whakapono
Me te rangimarie
Tatou, tatou e.

With love
With faith
With peace
We are all one together.