Well I had a right drama with my transport out of Mordor (Tongariro National Park to you not educated in Lord of the Rings speak). When I made my booking out of Whalapapa I was assured my 2.30pm bus would connect with the Intercity coach from Turangi to Wellington at 3.15. It wasn't until I was half way there when I was informed by the driver that there was no chance, I was not impressed. Anyway I said "Dont you know who I am? My names splattered all over the walls in Millom town so get it sorted!" (I just made that bit up). He kindly intercepted the intercity bus for me and a safe changeover was made, meaning I was merrily on my way to Wellington.

I have to say the scenery definately improves the further South you travel. What was once flat UK style boring countryside turned into mountains and valleys, gorges and emerald rivers with grass greener than a really green thing and sheep coming out of your ears! On the way we stopped at some diner and I had a hot roast lamb sandwich was was the best I've ever had! It was tender and so juicy I nearly bought another one. Anyway I arrived in Wellington at approximately 8.15pm just as the sun was setting over the surrounding hills and it definately has more appeal than Auckland. I walked to the hostel in the city centre called Nomads and found to my horror there were no more 'dorms' left, so I was forced to get a single room which in the end was a blessing because I went berzerk and ate biscuits in bed, stayed up till 10 and slept like a new born baby (without the poo).

The following day I wandered around Wellington trying to keep dry from the torrential rain that seems to be following me! I just don't believe my luck, I was going to do some sightseeing today but it didn't work out like that. I did manage to do some washing though.

The people of New Zealand are an intersting lot. There is such an eclectic mix of racial diversity and fashion. There seems to be an identity crisis going on with females not knowing whether to dress fashionably or practically (smart business dress with trousers or skirts and trainers) and the blokes where shorts that are really short like we used to in the 80's. Again though I find them extremely friendly and I got chatting to a bloke who works in an outdoor shop who's Dad lives in Whitley Bay, he was well impressed with my Newcastle shirt!