Alot of people seem to have mixed feelings things about Auckland but I throughly enjoyed my time in the City of Sails.
As arranged, about a year ago, I met up with a fellow partner in crime from the Norwich band circuit and got the guided tour of the city. Part of which evolved entering a place called Burger Fuel where I couldn`t help but notice you could buy a ""astard" it was only a matter of seconds before I asked for " a b******.....please!" It was quire a tasty b****** to ...for a burger. I had a fantasic last 10 days in New Zealand with Oli and Chesey - Thankyou!!!(Chu Bro)
The plan was to see the Northland. (North North Island basically). We started our roadtrip from Auckland and headed up into Northland to Goat Island, Mangawhai. Mangawhai Heads, through Dargaville, The Kauri Forest, Omapere, Opononi, Ahipara, Paihai (Bay of Islands), Whangerei , Tutukaka and the Poor Knights Islands. We took in surf beaches, camped and stayed in various hostels and found that both our pairs of jandals were cursed!( mine breaking and Oli leaving his under his car on a beach)
NNrmally in February I can expect wet and cold weather with not alot to do apart from feed the beer monster. Life is somewhat different in the southern hemisphere and I spent my birthday diving in the Poor Knights Marine Reserve amoungst Manta Rays, sub tropical and tropical fish! I also had "happy birthday" sang to me in the largest sea cave in the world. I wont be topping this for a while! Oli, glad you overcame your fear of fish nibbling at your feet! - I could see from your face you loved the snorkeling!! ( bet you start diving)
We also saw Jurassic 5 play in Auckland, grooving it up in the mosh pit was thoroughly entertaining in an old multilevel style threatre!
Aotearoa - Land of the long white cloud - what an amazing place to have to say goodbye too! Gutted
BBt next stop - South America!