G'day all

Were back again, Just uploaded the white water rafting pictures and lateste general ones so have a look.

We've had a hectic time since last entry and the rafting as we realised we were dragging our feet a bit and needed to up the pace to get North Island done and get back down south for xmas. We've stayed pretty much on the coast all the way, up round the Coromandal Peninsula, through Waihi beach which we absolutely fell in love with, if we ever dissapear that's where you need to look to find us it's our NZ Gold Award at the moment. The Coromandel was really beautifull, with mountainous little island all off the coast and crystal blue and green waters everywhere. We've had patchy weather with overcast rainy days so some places have not looked as great as they could have. Last few days we've been blessed with sunshine and our nice golden skin is getting darker in shade by the hour.

We had a small incident where the numpty aka Zoe decided to lock our keys in the van on Friday night, the AA were called and they had to break in (very embarrasing). Not happy with this she (numpty) decided to do it again on Sunday morning. Luckily one of the campground workers was used to such stupidity and broke in for us. Numpty is now not allowed to touch the keys and has to be supervised at all times!!! Steve how did you cope the last 23 years?

We headed through Auckland to our location now in Northland. Auckland was cool, with all the coast and greenland we're used to, being in a big city was quite a shocker. It was amazing though and we loved wondering the streets and taking it all in. We went up the sky tower to see the 360 degree view of the city and surroundings and wow it was high! Paul nearly poo'd his pants bless him and could not get to the edge, but was very brave. We watched a couple of mad people doing the sky jump and throw themselves of the top, it was madness. One day was enough in the hussle and bussle so we swiftly moved on.

Yesterday we booked a two hour horse trek in Waipu, Paul having only sat on a horse once before done so well. The place was really good, the horses were lovely and the two hours were great. We were the only people on the trek with the two guides. We rode through bush, rivers and the most stunning scenery it was magic. Paul mastered a trot and a canter but is suffering today. Pauls horse was called Victor and he was such a character, spent most of the time trying to eat (Victor that is) and mine was called Aussie, he was a bit more lively and fun to ride. We'll definately be doing more riding.

Right i think that's it for now. We're headed round Northland in the next couple of days. Then down the west coast, aiming to cross over to South Island around the 20th December to get settled for xmas. can't believe it's only like three weeks away. It's so weird seeing xmas trees and decorations in this heat, it's gonna be an experience. We will be decorating toby, unfortunately there is not room for a tree though.

Don't all get too stressed out with the preperations, just chill out!

Big big hugs and lots of love

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