I am in my second week of my help exchange placement. I am staying on a farm just outside Auckland in place called Whenaupai. They have 5 horses Babe, Mare who is in foal Tikka who is 2yr old filly, Pidge - 2yr old gelding (just had his tackle removed last week) Magic 4yr old gelding and Henry 4yr old Stallion, a goat, calf, chickens, cat and a dog called Spike. I work for 4hours per day to get meals and accommodation. I help with the horses which is great, they can be abit of handful at times as they are so young but it is fun. Judith is a coach, trainer, sports therapist and breeder so I have learnt alot here as well. The family are really nice and make you feel very welcome. It is great to be in one place for more than 1 or 2 nights. I have been out to see some of the local area which is beautiful but the weather hasn't been great. It is the start of spring but should be warmer than it is. I will start to move around New Zealand from this weekend so I will start to update my blog again and keep you all updated on where I am going. A little concerned that they are still experiencing quite strong after shocks in the south but they haven't advised me not to go. From the little I have seen already New Zealand is a stunning place, I am so looking forward to seeing much more. I am based opposite the airforce base, I have suggested a trip to the local pub but nobody took me on.lol Hopefully the weather will improve as I don't have many clothes for the cold wet weather, typical English traveller, only take clothes for sunshine, we live in hope. Hope you are all well. xx