The last day of the last Edelweiss tour in 2011 just started here in Russell, New Zealand. It is a beautiful day, with blue skies and balmy temperatures of 25°C/80°F. It is hard to imagine that Christmas is only a few weeks away.

Here are some more photos of this tour, the first ever North Island Extension:

The signpost at Cape Reinga is a popular photo spot. Cape Reinga is the northernmost point of mainland New Zealand. Every Kiwi has to see this lighthouse at least once in their lives.

 

This is Mark, trying to capture the beauty of the Bay of Islands. And here it is: the beauty of the Bay of Islands. Gabi, Gabi and Gunther share a relaxing moment at one of the secluded beaches on Northland's east coast. The Stone Store in Kerikeri dates back to 1836 and is New Zealand's oldest stone building. Famous Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser lived in Kawakawa until his death in 2000. He left his mark by designing the town's public toilets. They are the most photographed toilets in all of New Zealand.

After touring through New Zealand for two weeks most people on the tour had to go home. Only the "Lucky 4" could stay, and they went on to explore the far north of the North Island.

Beautiful view along the west coast of the Coromandel Peninsula Gabi tries to capture the beauty of the scenery with her camera, but some things you just can't photograph.

What a great day for a ride! This giant Pohutukawa tree gave us shade for our picnic. It just doesn't get much better than this. A beautiful souvenir from a Coromandel beach, and it is for free! Just a bit too big... The Red Power Ranger Mark finally found a soulmate: Alan, the Yellow Power Ranger! The "Lucky 4" enjoy the sunshine at Ripiro Beach. This beach is over 100 km long and mostly uninhabited! A short walk brought us face to face with the Father of the Forest, a giant Kauri tree. At around 2,000 years old and with a girth of 17 meters he made us feel small and insignificant.