FRA - ICN - AKL

The plan is to hike the length of New Zealand. A walk of about 3000 km from Cape Reinga in the North to Bluff in the South.

To reach the trailhead, a significant amount of traveling lies ahead. The initial major leg of my journey takes me from Frankfurt to Seoul. As the plane descends for landing, I’m greeted by a peculiar ‘landscape’ of endless skyscrapers:

Approaching Seoul Incheon Airport:

Seoul's Incheon airport wears a serious and sterile countenance, a stark contrast to my experience at Frankfurt airport the day before.

Walking through the airport, I feel invaded by an array of distinct sound effects emanating from appliances, vending machines, vehicles and more.

Tranquility I find within the ladies' room and here I encounter a wondrous realm of toilet controls.

There are so many different controls! Mesmerized I devote myself to the bouquet of colourful buttons. I experience two different “showers” before stumbling upon another button that initiates a kind of dryer. The remaining controls don’t seem to have any distinct functions. I guess they are to adjust the water jet and temperature. 

But the best was yet to come:

An hour later, I am back in the ladies room, this time with no intention of tinkering with the controls. I sit down, intending to stay for just a few moments, but oh my God!
To my surprise, the toilet seat is wonderfully warm. Someone had activated a seat heating feature. I momentarily forget why I’m there and revel in that comforting warmth for a while, and for another while, and for another while, until I almost fall asleep. 

It’s an experience that, while certainly not necessary, I must wholeheartedly recommend.

So far my little adventure at Seoul Incheon airport.

The journey continues with the flight to Auckland. The highlight during this part of my journey is opening the blinds about 2:45 hours before arriving in Auckland and finding myself at eye level with a beautifully bright, big full moon and a morning star perched above.

I keep on watching the moon until the morning light embraces it in beautiful blue, pink, and orange hues while it slowly retreats, making room for the new day.

Approaching Auckland:

I'll end this little chapter with one of the many beautiful street art pieces that can be seen while walking the city of Auckland.