As always when the sun is shining we are out and about, and as always we are spoilt for choice. There are so many beautiful places.
On our usual drive around the coast we have passed what seemed to be a monument right at the top of a hill and many a time wondered what it was all about. After some research we found out that it was in fact a Memorial that commemorates Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, defender of Gallipoli and first president of modern Turkey. The gracious park was named as the Ataturk Memoral Park.
The memorial, funded by the Turkish government, was dedicated in 1990. The site was chosen because of its physical resemblance to Anzac Cove in Gallipoli. Beneath the memorial is a container of soil from Anzac Cove. 
We just had to make a trip and view for ourselves the beautifully placed memorial.The walkway was steep (my favourite!) but as we climbed the view was just stunning. The Kaikoura mountains were again covered with snow and it was a beautiful sight. At the top there was the most amazing panoramic view where the peaceful memorial sat.
We spent some time here and Bethany insisted on Daddy reading every word on the memorial before we left. Something a 3 year could never comprehend, but something we tried to explain the best we could in 3 year old speak!We made our way back down and decided to go over to the beach. The sun disapearred behind the clouds but it was still warm. We all enjoyed hunting amongst the rock pools where we found sea urchins, enemenies and some fantastically coloured star fish!
Its great how the time passes when you are having fun, the beach was brilliant, Bethany's enthusiasm was completely enthralling and the spirit of our family was prominent. New Zealand has made our life as a family 110% better, we are so grateful to this beautiful country for giving us the chance to grow, learn and nurture each other, and for giving us the chance to do it all again tomorrow...
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