16th June

At last I have made it to Havelock. After six and a half hours in Auckland Airport I finally board my flight for Napier. By the time I arrive its dark. I had no difficulty spotting my welcome party. Morgan and Ryan had spent all day making a huge sign saying we love you Aunty Pam. It was great to be here and all be together again.

I have been crook (kiwi for sick) for my first 2 weeks in NZ. After convincing the medical profession I had not got swin flu they agreed to see me. I had a build up of fluid in my inner ear. I then spent the next 2 weeks on antibiotcs. Am glad to say am feeling a lot better now.

My next 3 weeks are spent going to the beach, driving around some of the sights and catching up with friends.

I spent 3 days in Palmerston North where I stayed with a lovely lady who I had not meet before. She turned out to be a wonderful host, she gave me a bed, fed me and showed me the sights of Palmerston. One of the places we went to was the Rugby Museum I am amazed that I enjoyed it so much, they gave me the rules as they could see I didn,t know them. I am still trying to work out when its a goal penalty, a line-out, touch or a touch down.

I also went to dinner with 2 ladies from my Everest trip. We spent a lovely evening reminiscing about our trips.

On the 4th July I went to a mid winter Christmas party. They had a tree, xmas crackers, mulled wine the lot. Far too much to eat and drink.