Week 3 - New Zealand Arrival

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After finishing up my last couple of days in Hawaii with a bit of surfing at Waikiki Beach, I flew out on Wednesday night heading for Auckland. Crossing the international date line meant that I didn't actually arrive in Auckland until Friday morning (meaning that I missed out on Thursday this week!)

David (Truro/Auckland) was at the airport to meet me - how nice it was to see a familiar face. He headed off to work while I got cleaned up before walking down to Newmarket to explore. I met him at work and we headed of to Mission Bay for a drink on a waterfront balcony. We then roamed the beach a little before heading to a gathering at a friends house. Saturday morning we got up and took a road trip with some of Dave's friends to one of Auckland's beautiful Regional Parks - Tawharanui. We enjoyed beautiful weather, long sandy beaches, and even did a bit of exploring through some caverns before being hit by a bit of rain. On our way back to the city, we made a stop in Devonport, where we were able to look over to see Auckland from afar.

Sunday was spent taking it easy, though we did go to a couple of sightseeing places - including One Tree Hill where I saw my first, genuine New Zealand sheep.

I have also been spending some time searching for a car to buy - David has graciously given me some driving lessons here so that I can get comfortable driving on the opposite side of the road (no easy feat!). Once I get comfortable with that I will hopefully get myself organized and be able to head out on some more road trips!

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Photos

Beach for miles and miles
(sorry, make that kilometres and kilometres)

One of forty million
(which means that if this little guy is 'one in a million', then there are 40 other sheep just like him!)

Comments

[Christy]

We had our first Duke meeting today. Only 2 newbies but we'll work on increasing that. Some of the 9s want us to take them on a Silver trip at the end of their grade 10 year. I said I'd mention it to you. Geoff is still bragging about his 8 consecutive "terms" as president on the trip. (: Looking forward to learning about New Zealand in future blogs. Christy (:

[Cate]

Now I am jealous!
I know you have a lot of incredible plans, and have already seen some wonderful things, but for the first time I really am envious. I have wanted to visit New Zealand for a long time. It's strange to see you on a beach, when I look out on the cold and rain! Don't you love finally driving on the "right" side of the road?! Much love, Cate

[megan]

I love that there are 40 other sheep like your friend! He's cute! Very jealous of your adventure and I know you are enjoying every minute of it! Take care!

[Olivia]

Ahahah
Hawaii?!!??!!? ahah is it nice?!?!?!?!!? is the weather good there!?!??!! snow!??!!?!? sometimes i always wantedd to go to Hawaii!!!!