I cannot thank everyone who has put me up, or put up with me enough.

My latest hosts were Katie and Jim Davies and were fantastic.

They let me have the run of their lovely house, cooked for me and took me round Auckland showing off what a wonderful city that they've made their home.

It was great to have some people you could share stories and laughter with and also tales of misdemeanours their eldest son and her girlfriend have got up to (only joking Lynds & James).

Katie showed me round Auckland city on Friday and we had lunch on the waterfront before exploring the wynyards, the amazing yachts and also the shops. Sadly our plan of dining at the skytower didn't come off, but Katie bought me a book to show me what amazing sights you can see should you be able to get a table.

K&J are also kindly opening their home to their younger son Matt's friends who are travelling for a year, so they arrived from Santiago on Saturday and after a short walk round Howick, the farmers market and also the beach we went to Piha beach (Jim & Andy were almost on TV walking behind a rescue attempt for Piha rescue). We also went to a fab wine & food festival on Sunday.

Jim has also been a star helping to plan the rest of my trip as I am a little unrealistic about how long journeys take. His sense of direction and knowledge of the roads is amazing and he's also like a little tourist information place so very helpful indeed!

However the highlight of this part of the trip has been seeing baby pics of James and Matt over the breakfast table - brilliant! It was also rather nice to Skype with James & Lynds on Sunday to have a giggle and also catch up with the UK news that isn't about horsemeat...

Now I'm off on my own for a few days to explore caves, thermal spas and lakes. Hope you're all having a good week ;)