The preparations are underway: mum and I are going to visit Down Undertogether.

Why are we preparing to visit New Zealand?

The equator certificate.

In March 1974 my then pregnant mother, father and brother immigrated to New Zealand.
They travelled by boot. A trip that lasted 6 weeks - not that I noticed though. Mum was pregnant with me.

I was born in Te Awamutu on September 23 rd 1974. My parents named me Patricia, which I later changed to Veronique.

Our stay in New Zealand was short, returning to the Netherlands by plane. 

                Our flight papers.......

When providing my birth certificate people ask:  “Te Awamutu?”
To which I cheerfully reply, that's a small township in New Zealand, Down Under.
My marriage- and mortgage papers had to be altered and legalised at the appropriate embassy which also meant my children automatically received the Kiwi nationality.


This situation is special to me, hence my wish to visit the place of my birth. This became stronger after the birth of my own two wonderful sons. With their and my loving husband's blessing I am now in the throws, together with mum, to realise this dream. A visit to the country of my birth.

Now, finally, after a year of pondering, discussions and soulsearching- the decision has been made.  We, mum and I, are going for gold. New Zealand here we come- we have chosen for the month of March, in 2015.

It took mum a wee while to be convinced this was a good idea. Luckily for me, her husband Herman had the desired effect and tactics to talk her round. My joy and surprise complete when she rang and told me " Veronique, we will go on this journey together, write our own history. Let's get together and discuss the nuts and bolts."

And from that moment on the trip became a reality- for 3 weeks mum and I will tackle this adventure together.

I had to let the whole thing sink in... My mind ran riot with all the possibilities, the unknown and the excitement of it all. Before I knew it we were off to the Travel Agency in Breda where my mum usually went to her holiday bookings, seeking advice. Her contact there, Sandra, was most helpful.