Churches in Auckland

Kia Ora!

Admittedly, when I think of New Zealand a hugely religious place isn't exactly what comes to mind! In fact, though once a British Colony, religion plays a rather small part of most Kiwis lives. According to the latest census information just over half of the population of New Zealand considers themselves Christian, though only about 15% of Kiwis make a regular appearance at services. New Zealand has no state religion and has had religious freedom since the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840. According to recent census data about 1/3 of Kiwis claim to have no religious affiliation. Regardless though, there are numerous beautiful churches around the country and in the heart of Auckland!

An interesting story that I picked up from a bit if Wiki-reading, in the 2001 NZ census over 53,000 people listed their religion as "Jedi" via the support of an online campaign. The responses were not accepted as valid, but if they had been, the over 1.5% of responses, would've been the second largest religion in New Zealand (assuming "Christian" includes all denominations). Unfortunately the Jedi population has since decreased, to an estimated 20,000 people in the 2006 census.

Some gorgeous flowers I spotted on my walk this morning.

Seriously, even if you aren't a morning person, when you travel be sure to BECOME ONE! The gorgeous things you see in the early morning can just not be compared to.

A Presbyterian Church!

Outside another church I randomly spotted. This was the one of the cutest things I've seen here so I had to snap a picture!

Gearing up for Sunday Morning services!

My city!

Beautiful skyline view of downtown Auckland. I may be counting days until I come home, but that doesn't mean I won't miss this place like crazy. At least I know that someday I'll be back. :)

This is a view of Mount Eden, one of Auckland's volcanoes! The Auckland Volcanic Field consists of about 50 volcanoes scattered around the region. Fortunately they are largely monogenetic (erupting only once) and very small. Unfortunately though preliminary geophysical testing suggests a buildup of magma beneath the crust in this region, predicting an eruption at some point in the future. However data is inconclusive and predicting is difficult. There is supposedly a great view of the city from Mt. Eden; it will be my last hike of the trip! I'm hoping after my first exam on Monday to take a trip up to the top with one of my flatties!

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That's it for now!