New Zealand

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This is an summary of the last few days as we wrote loads and accidently deleted the last entry. Flight to NZ ok seat 23 is the worst seat right next to the loos and we reckon all those in the plane need medical help as they were in constant need of the loo, however staff nice and meal good and we got in early but what do you do in an airport at 4am? Coffee and cakes??

Another temperature shock as we left the airport we could see our breath. Picked up the car and arrived at our apartment about 5 hours early the cleaner wouldn't be in until 9 so we had to wander. The park was just like an English park and then I spotted Westfield a huge shopping complex but not open until 9. We then got the call we could go into the apartment and it was bliss, everything you could want comfy bed!! We had to keep awake so shopping, haircuts, washing and ironing; it really felt like we had come home. We eventually allowed ourselves to go to sleep at about 9.30

Day 2 we went to Devonport to meet up with Richard and Kath. Richard was swimming round the bay taking part in an annual event with his Dad and daughter there to support him. We hadn't seen Jayne for years or his Dad and it was a lovely reunion in the local pub. later that day Kath and I went shopping whilst Steve and Richard cooked supper, I am really starting to like NZ.

Day 3 we awoke to sunshine so a quick visit to the GreyLynn farmers market followed by coffee and back for lunch, we were kindly chauffeured around the east and west shores of Auckland

The east coast was rugged and dark clouds threatened but soon gave way to brilliant sunshine. We climed up and saw the wedding cake rock and then walked down along the black sparkling sands that looked like iron filings. Mission bay on the west coast was for the rich and famous very upmarket but just as beautiful as the east with amazing views. The huge war memorial building was surrounded by beautiful gardens and a fitting tribute to the war dead. A delicious risotto supper ended a brilliant day.

Day 4 we said our farewells and journeyed on to the bay of islands

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