Hi everyone Well we have just had a relaxing few days here in Auckland. Today we got the train into town and caught the ferry to Devonport where we took a guided bus trip to find out about the island, then relaxed down at the beach after having lunch. Deveonport is the naval base in Auckland and very english - art deco style. Lovely building full of character and very interesting history. Yesterday 28th we got a taxi down to the harbour and had a walk around to get our bearings, lots going on and the atmosphere was great. Hotter than we've experienced so far so much so that I got burnt - hope the panda eyes don't show up in the photos!! Took the ferry round the harbour for 1 1/2 hours and joined the Seven Seas voyager back to port. Beautiful views. Decided to make up an itinery for the next week or so. we have booked a room in the Sky Tower hotel for monday night so we are in the city itself - i will be able to shop on my own!! Tuesday we have an early start - heading south on an organised trip taking in Lake Taupo, Rotura, Waitomo Glow-worm caves Rainbow springs and Te Puia Thermal Reserve and Maori Institute. We are going to the Agrodome Farm Show then up to the volcano Wairakei Geothermal Valley, Huka Falls and Taupo township. It all seems very interesting. Back to auckland on Friday and we have booked another night in the City. Saturday is undecided but on Sunday we are heading for Napier by coach where we will pick up a hire car and spend a couple of nights in homestays. Thinking about getting the ferry to the south island maybe wednesday 7th. Who knows, its great just having some breathing space, and getting used to another time zone. Had a trip up the sky tower - missed the one in Sydney - Bob and sue recommended it but we just never got round to it. Really tempted to do the jump from the top for my birthday - Davey says there is always a first time for the rope to break - always negitive about things isn't he!! Well he's delighted Dave and Caroline phoned us tonight - he was very emotional after speaking to them, its almost nine years to the day since we were in Zimbabwe seeing them - how time flies. May not be able to update you for a few days. Love to all Lynne & David