Greetings everybody! You'll be glad to know that we've found a place with decent technology and have uploaded some of our NZ photos. So please feel free to peruse at your leisure and apologies to those of you who've been waiting so long for an update!! We've made our way to the centre of North Island and have adopted the saying - "let's do it" whenever faced with a kiwi challenge. You've heard about the black water rafting, well now we've completed a white water excursion...... and survived a 7m waterfall (the highest commercially rafted in the world!!) We're still shivering to tell the tale, Ed receives the Bowman bravery award for sitting at the front and laughing in the face of danger (or crying as the photo's show!). However I found the mountain biking more of a challenge (unexpectedly) - it was a pretty tough trail and Ruth feels ready to challenge Rich, Sam or Ewan once her injuries have recovered (see photo album) and she figures out the gears!!!!!! The great thing about this area is the soothing thermal baths to soak the aches and pains, as the sun sets. This will be much needed tomorrow as we embark on one of NZ's best and toughest day walks across Tongoriro mountain. It's impossible to be bored here with so much to do especially now the sun is shining. It's great to keep hearing everyone's news on the site. Keep in touch. Much love Ed and Ruth