Recently, I spent some time with you,
exploring;
the tender hollows that rush with strength,
the highs and lows of your lustrous length

the brightness of your energy and youth,
the mana of your history and wealth,
the spirit that you plant in me,
the inspiration you make me feel

and so I say to you
there may be times of mistrust
and sometimes,
small areas of darkness

but I will always be yours;
you are forever in my heart.
I may leave briefly,
but I will always return

and in time I will lie with you
when my earthly self departs

then, in the safe and loving arms
of my Aotearoa,
I shall rest.