We write this entry from Auckland airport as we have 6 hours to kill before our flight to Chile. We actually should be on south american soil by now but due to unfortunate events yesterday we were put on a flight 24 hours later.

After an enjoyable month travelling separately round New Zealand we were reunited for a night out in wellington and 2 more days travel back to auckland. After such a short time back in each others company, on Friday afternoon Nikki was reminded of just how unlucky Leanna can be. We were cutting it fine to get to the airport on time so waiting for our shuttle bus to arrive Nikki decided we should have our afternoon tea on the bus so went in search of 2 cups of hot water to use with our stolen teabags from various hostels. Its a decision she'll live to regret! When the bus arrived we boarded in a panic, so to save time Leanna tried to multitask, balancing the hot water in one hand and putting her back pack down with the other. A tirade of swear words and shouting filled the bus and Nikki turned round to find a very distressed Leanna with boiling water burning through her bare skin. She bravely made it to the back of the bus with no help or concern from any passengers or the bus driver so we were left to deal with it on ur own. Armed with a small bottle of water we soaked the burns in water and Leanna treated the guy next to her to free view of her cleavage as she stripped down to her bra in pain. The next hour was the worst in Leannas life as she sat on the bus in rush hour traffic feeling like her skin was melting away and being unable to describe the amount of pain she was in. It was clear on her face though but despite her sufering she was determined to make our light and reused to get off the bus.

A mad rush into the airport and 5 minutes later we were in the first aid room with 2 friendly paramedics trying to cool the burns on Leannas arm, chest, tummy and thigh down. They declared her unfit to travel and insisted on a hospital visit so we moved our flight without too much trouble and booked into a twin motel room close to the airport for the night.

The ambulance arrived and Leanna was pushed out in a wheelchair in her knickers, put onto a stretcher and given laughing gas to ease the pain. A very giggly journey to the hospital as Leanna got high and momentarily forgot how much pain she was in. Despite the seriousness of the situation she was still keen to pose for some photos to remember the experience!

31/2 agonising hours laying in the corridor of the hospital (they are as disorganised as hospitals in england!) a doctor finally came to check her out. Must've been a tough day for him as he mistook Nikki for mum and the rash on Leannas face for more burns! He did give her some much needed pain relief, bandaged the burns and blisters, and declared her fit for travel today. We were expecting a hefty bill at the end but were surprised to find it was free and we got a complimentary taxi to our new motel. So here we are again at the airport with plenty of time to spare, hoping that the next time you hear from us we'll be in chile....