Well it was a nice early start.... But tbh I was glad to get up...I had been awake since 2am on and off..... So 6am was welcomed! Started the long tour through new Zealand on the magic bus.... First stop was in the village where the drink LP was made.... Had the classic tourist pictured standing by this huge bottle! But more remarkably they had toilets which spoke to you and played music to you whilst you did your business.... But there is a 10 minute time limit ...

This morning was harbour tour day!!! Got to the harbour pretty early to sit in the sun and watch the boats pre harbour cruise... We had the same breakfast dilemma needless to say.... After a beautiful cruise it was a quick run to the hostel to change/collect more layers for the evening...the change in temperature is huge between day and night/ when in the sun.... Layering is key! Then we met with Awen Daf and Izzat for a trip to devonport where we met friends of ...

Today got up bright and early to sort Things out pre day trip.... Wifi is a very scare commodity in this place and all is chargeable..upto $6 an hour (£3). And if it is free with any purchase (unlikely) there is a 60mb limit/1hour usage. Ok if you want to email.... Nightmare for Skype and FaceTime! And breakfast.... Nightmare to find anything suitable...only things to purchase in supermarket to cook are sushi related items (as with most places to eat) or a loaf...

So we arrived in auckland ahead of schedule at 8am wednesday 2nd may... Had a good flight and the most beautiful view of the north of Auckland on landing!!! It's such a beautiful place.... We landed and went through security and had to declare all food items....or face a $400 fine.... Needless to say I was not keen for the fine! And any fruit, nuts plants.... When asked what food I had I listed...."well umm, a brunch bar, chocolate, crisps, both kettle and golden...

Well since reflecting, Kat and I realised that there has been lots that we had forgotten about the trip and felt we were doing LA an injustice by not filling in the stories....in bullet form! - visited the Los Angeles marina - cycled along the pacific highway which is the longest - saw the very end of route 66 - pretended to be Forrest Gump on Santa Monica pier - didn't see any celebs... :( - met lots of la wannabes... That work in restaurants or as street ...