My brother visited New Zealand last year and made a fascinating discovery ...
As well as touring the whole North and South Islands, he of course visited Auckland ...
Just when he was exploring the
Sky Tower and the surrounding area of
Sky City he was intrigued to discover ...
... this plaque dedicated to Croatians! It reads:
" MEMORIAL SPOMEN PLOCA. Between the years 1890 and 1980 this locality was the gateway and meeting place for many thousands of immigrants from the coastal regions of Croatia. The majority being from the province of Dalmatia. In this locality they had their homes, their shops, boarding houses, restaurants and clubs.
Here they paused briefly before moving on to establish themselves on the Kauri Gumfields, vineyards, orchards, farms, fisheries and quarries of the Auckland province. These streets were central to their social life where they enjoyed the company of family and friends. This was their village, they were a Croatian people, proud of their origins and their Dalmatian heritage. For over 70 years in recent history they shared identity as Yugoslavs.
This memorial plaque, arranged by their descendants, commemorates their presence in this locality. It further commemorates their courage, their relentless toil, their commitment to their families and contribution to the making of New Zealand.
New Zealanders of their kin will remember them with respect and affection for generations to come. This memorial was donated, and place, courtesy of Sky City Ltd, by Fletcher Construction, constructors of Sky City. August 1997."
So, naturally my brother was amazed to find such a plaque about Croatians ... downunder!
We are fortunate enough to have friends who own this gorgeous ground floor apartment with amazing Adriatic Sea views. The terrace, remodeled in 2009 uses quality stone sourced locally and is heaven on a summers' evening with the outdoor entertaining and enjoying bbqs.
An ingenious inlaid nautical compass created out of different types of stone creates interest
The creative stone bench called "the cigar smoking corner" is for banishing smokers. However, this is a great corner for viewing the stars (very little light pollution) and looking at the Old Town of Dubrovnik.
The island of Lokrum and the rear of the Old Town.
Fully equipped kitchen leading onto the dining room and overlooking the sea.
The Italian made dining table is made of volcanic stone and took 7 men to bring to the apartment. Showing an underwater scene, the table top needs no coverings at all. The glass tryptic on the wall has been created by talented Niko Cuckovic of BeCraft.
The classic red and white stripe cushions on the furniture gives a beach home feel to the living room.
Open plan living and dining area, all sea facing and capturing the stunning Adriatic views. The little glass table at the bottom of the picture (above) is also a Niko Cuckovic custom special.
Light and airy this 2-bedroom beach home takes full advantage of living by the sea. It is just a pleasant 20 minutes coastal walk to Dubrovnik Old Town too, making it an ideal location for holidays. My friends are selling this apartment (email me) and are confident the new owners will enjoy the light, space and views as they have over the last 6 years.
