Now back in Auckland, staying with our friends - Denise and David from Mancheter - who are staying in their friends house in Torbay (whilst their friends have gone off to do some fruit picking). Life does sound complicated. Had a horrible journey from the airport, with torrential rain and a hire car which decided to mist up very quickly. Had a lovely day out with them to a beach on the west coast - Muriwai - which is 9 kms long and is of black sand. There wa...

Our hotel was just below the tower. Spent yesterday (Sunday) with the young Eeles. Were taken to a great winery for lunch and then visited the beach. Martin played rugby with Oscar and helped Digby build a sandcastle. Have visited the house they hope to move into within 6 weeks and seen the beach from their garden ! Picking car up at mid day to start the next phase of our trip. Thinking of staying on an Emu farm, near to the glowworm caves, south of Hamilt...

Flight from Tokyo delayed by an hour but with a strong tailwind we made up the time and arrived in Auckland 5 minutes early! Air New Zealand seats were smaller than Virgin but still comfortable but the food and WINE were excellent. Room was not ready when we arrived (as we expected) so walked around and found the Harbour. Room when we did get into it was good. Had a rest and then went back to the Harbour area for an excellent fish meal. Saturday morning - it...