Howdy folks Been in New Zealand for a week or so now. Heard the news about the bombings whilst in the nay of islands. Sounded pretty nightmarish but I guess not entirely unexpected. Things have been fairly relaxed over here. The Lions are officially rubbish but have made it back down to Auckland to join the barmy army in revelling in our undoubted defeat. Spent a few days in the northlands (north of Auckland) where is has been mostly raining. Was planning on taking various trip out to the bay of islands but weather was not permitting and so we have done very little but drive around and drink red wine. Made it to the tip of the north island (Cape Reinga) and spent several days just holing up with fellow travellers. Been quite nice after so much driving around in the van in the usa to stay in proper buildings and even catch some NZ tv (Simpsons on daily at 5). Looking forward to the rains stoipping and getting down a bit further south for some snow. Hope all well at home J & L x