Heading north to the Bay of Islands slowed the pace down, after a hectic night at the Australia vs Ireland match and the partying that followed! We drove up the coast, taking a tiny car ferry that scared Joss (but what doesn't!), to Russell, a sleepy fishing town. Our campervan park had views out across the bay, and was conveniently located near a hotel with roaring log fire and very tasty fish and chips! The sun set was fabulous. After a day of consolidation (...

Auckland - also titled, Blabbed about Mars Quaid After a really nice day sampling the walks and wineries on Waheke Island (just off Auckland) we were fired up for the big match against the Aussies, a crucial game in our group. A roving reporter for Waheke Radio (think provincial, then think smaller) interviewed us to get the Irish perspective. He was a little disappointed with our English accents. But after four attempts he left satisfied with our slightly tips...