Te Huruhi Primary School

Nik and Isaac's school is situated on a peninsula on Waiheke Island. About a 45 min walk from home (A) to school (B). We'll try the bikes next.

My commute is from "A" along Ocean View Rd to the Matiatia Harbor on the west side. The arial view shows one of the catamaran ferries (white object) at dock. Ferries are promt and run every hour; 35 min later I am in Auckland and have about a 25 min walk uphill to the University. The Internet connection at home appears to be fast enough to allow me to work from home as well. Attended my first "virtual M.S. student defense" yestereday on Skype. I think the student had to keep from laughing every time Jenn walked by in the background to get something out of the kitchen--at least she was dressed. The 6 hour time difference + 1 day means I need to be online early for meetings.

As previously mentioned, Te Huruhi Primary School is a series of buildings surrounded by small courtyards / play areas to allow good air flow through the rooms. Nikolas is seen on the ramp up to room 17 (with a stunning view of the bay to the west--kayaking to school is an option to be explored). Inside the classroom Nikolas is rummaging through his desk. His teacher, Mrs. "B" commented that Nikolas is not afraid to ask questions when he doesn't understand an activity (either due to dialect or different teaching methods). However, he did confide to me that it would be nice to not be the "new kid", because then you would know everything and fit in. As a parent you always wonder at what age your kids will engage you in adult conversation--for Nikolas it is age 9. At 6 Isaac just goes with the flow, aiming to please, always hungry, always running, skipping or jumping in puddles.