Heather and I had a French manicure this morning and the people at the shop were probably the most unfriendly people we have ever met in NZ. The owner is Chinese and he started Heather's and I had a Kiwi girl who did not speak unless I spoke to her. The Chinese man left Heather half way through and a young Maori girl took over but with no words spoken. The did a good job and at only £10 each it was cheap but the experience was not worth it but we had a laugh.
We then had a coffee and Heather bought a bag as the one she brought over looks like it won't make it back.
We came home for lunch and then in the afternoon we went out to Pak n Save a cheap supermarket that that Heather had seen advertised and I thought she might like to see - a bit like Netto in UK but not so bad.
I needed some plastic bags to put the fudge we made on Sunday in. The recipe said 60 pieces and it made a lot more than that so looks like my neighbours will be getting a treat - it is very nice but must be thousands of calories.
After that we went to visit another pet shop that Heather wanted to see. We fell in love with a caramel coloured toy poodle which was adorable. The manage is English and we had a long chat with him. They had three lizards like the ones we saw in Sydney and he wanted Heather to hold one but there was no way she would. We also saw another little dog there who was four and a half months old and although a pedigree it looked so scruffy and had been there so long and it was so sad to see it.
Tuesday. I took Totty out this morning while Heather was getting ready. I walked around the park and as we came out a little Peakiness, who lives in a house near the park and barks out of the window when we pass, was out in the street and before I knew it he was trying to jump on Totty and attacking her. Fortunately, for me, I had my umbrella up as it was raining and I brought it down on top of him and he ran off. I don't understand how people can let such miserable, aggressive dogs out in the street with nobody to check on them. I was more annoyed as when I hit the dog I chipped one of my nice manicured nails!!!
We went out souvenir shopping for Heather and then we came back for lunch with Jon.
Just as Jon was going back to work the delivery of firewood arrives and I nearly had a fit at the size of the lorry. I'm glad to say only one third was for us and that was more than enough to get into the garage and stack it. We should now have enough wood to last us for two winters - I hope!
I am going to meet a lady tomorrow who will look after dogs in her home and I hope that will be better for Totty than kennels - fingers crossed.
Heather cooked Mexican for us tonight and it was very good.
Tuesday, 30 June 2009
Sunday, 28 June 2009
A very wet Sunday
We have got a load of wood arriving on Tuesday so Jon thought he had better re arrange the garage so that we can store it.
I did some ironing and we thought about what we could do in the rain. And then the rain got heavier and we decided that other than going out for lunch it wasn't worth considering anything else.
We went over to Bay Fair and Jon and I had a salad with roast beef and roast pork which was very good and Heather had a McDonald's and would have been better with proper food. It is quite nice to eat there as all the bars are in one spot and you can get what you want and then all the tables are in the middle so it keeps everyone happy.
After that we came back and made some very rich chocolate fudge that will keep us going for months, just as well it freezes as I think I might be eating it at this time next year.
We had a good roast dinner tonight and then Heather planned what we should do next week. Time is running out and as the weather is upsetting our plans we have to have wet and dry days arranged. It is a shame the weather is wet at the weekends as that is when we can do the long trips as I don't like to drive too far in my little car. Still we will just have to make the most of it - it is winter!!
I did some ironing and we thought about what we could do in the rain. And then the rain got heavier and we decided that other than going out for lunch it wasn't worth considering anything else.
We went over to Bay Fair and Jon and I had a salad with roast beef and roast pork which was very good and Heather had a McDonald's and would have been better with proper food. It is quite nice to eat there as all the bars are in one spot and you can get what you want and then all the tables are in the middle so it keeps everyone happy.
After that we came back and made some very rich chocolate fudge that will keep us going for months, just as well it freezes as I think I might be eating it at this time next year.
We had a good roast dinner tonight and then Heather planned what we should do next week. Time is running out and as the weather is upsetting our plans we have to have wet and dry days arranged. It is a shame the weather is wet at the weekends as that is when we can do the long trips as I don't like to drive too far in my little car. Still we will just have to make the most of it - it is winter!!
Saturday, 27 June 2009
Waitomo Glow worm Caves
The weather looked very grey today so we decided to head over to the Waikato region and visit the glow worm caves.
On the way we stopped at our favorite coffee shop and visited the Wool Shed shop which sells lots of possum and merino wool clothing. Jon has been looking at a jacket there since we first visited the place in January and he finally bought it.
We then carried on to the caves a journey of nearly two hours. We had lunch before we were picked up by a van and taken to the caves. There were only five and the guide in our group us and an American woman and a girl from Australia so it was just right.
The caves were amazing with lots of stalactites and stalagmites and the limestone looked like marble and there was also cave coral which I have never seen before, really beautiful. We saw the threads from the glow worms which hang down like tinsel and the glow worms were amazing. The whole place was like a Christmas grotto. The glow worms are the larvae and are like that for about 9 months before the cocoon stage. When they hatch they only live for a few days, long enough to mate and lay eggs and then they fall to the floor of the cave and die. The roof of the cave looks like stars in the sky and were really beautiful and quite magical. The tour took us deep underground via a constructed drum like walkway, the lighting was amazing and you could hear a loud underground waterfall which is used for the dare devils that do the underwater tube rafting (wet suit, boots, hat with a light and you sit in a rubber tube and are pulled along by the current - not something I would do). I cannot begin to describe just how beautiful it is and the tour of nearly two hours flew by. One drop of water from the stalagmites takes 18 months to get there from the surface so it takes about 100 years for them to grow an inch - impressive!!!
Out next visit was to a smaller and much dryer cave but equally beautiful had it not been for the Korean people who talked the whole time the guide was talking - so rude. She told us they hold Christmas carol concerts there and they have had famous opera singers perform there, too. It is a huge cathedral like cave and the acoustics are said to be very good. We then got onto a boat and were lucky enough to board last and so got the front seat. We were pulled, by our old lady Maori guide, through the cave by ropes on the roof of the cave and there were thousands of glow worms, just magical.
It was a really lovely day and worth the drive over to that area. Jon and I will certainly go back that way when the weather gets better as there are so many things to do and see there.
Poor Totty was very hungry by the time we got home at 6.15. I think I will have to get my neighbour to come in and let her out if we go on such a long day again..
On the way we stopped at our favorite coffee shop and visited the Wool Shed shop which sells lots of possum and merino wool clothing. Jon has been looking at a jacket there since we first visited the place in January and he finally bought it.
We then carried on to the caves a journey of nearly two hours. We had lunch before we were picked up by a van and taken to the caves. There were only five and the guide in our group us and an American woman and a girl from Australia so it was just right.
The caves were amazing with lots of stalactites and stalagmites and the limestone looked like marble and there was also cave coral which I have never seen before, really beautiful. We saw the threads from the glow worms which hang down like tinsel and the glow worms were amazing. The whole place was like a Christmas grotto. The glow worms are the larvae and are like that for about 9 months before the cocoon stage. When they hatch they only live for a few days, long enough to mate and lay eggs and then they fall to the floor of the cave and die. The roof of the cave looks like stars in the sky and were really beautiful and quite magical. The tour took us deep underground via a constructed drum like walkway, the lighting was amazing and you could hear a loud underground waterfall which is used for the dare devils that do the underwater tube rafting (wet suit, boots, hat with a light and you sit in a rubber tube and are pulled along by the current - not something I would do). I cannot begin to describe just how beautiful it is and the tour of nearly two hours flew by. One drop of water from the stalagmites takes 18 months to get there from the surface so it takes about 100 years for them to grow an inch - impressive!!!
Out next visit was to a smaller and much dryer cave but equally beautiful had it not been for the Korean people who talked the whole time the guide was talking - so rude. She told us they hold Christmas carol concerts there and they have had famous opera singers perform there, too. It is a huge cathedral like cave and the acoustics are said to be very good. We then got onto a boat and were lucky enough to board last and so got the front seat. We were pulled, by our old lady Maori guide, through the cave by ropes on the roof of the cave and there were thousands of glow worms, just magical.
It was a really lovely day and worth the drive over to that area. Jon and I will certainly go back that way when the weather gets better as there are so many things to do and see there.
Poor Totty was very hungry by the time we got home at 6.15. I think I will have to get my neighbour to come in and let her out if we go on such a long day again..
Thursday, 25 June 2009
Thursday and Friday Another cold sunny day
The weather is very sunny but very cold.
Heather and I don't sit around much but some days go by so fast and I don't know what we have done. That is what has happened over the last two days.
Thursday we went into Tauranga and the library and did a bit of clothes shopping.
I had seen what I thought was a factory shop so we went to check it out and it turned out to be the biggest charity shop/warehouse I have ever seen so we didn't stay long!
On Friday afternoon we went to the cinema as the weather had turned wet but warmer. We saw The Proposal and it was very, very funny.
It was fish and chip night and we have actually got Heather eating proper fish and she likes it!!
Heather and I don't sit around much but some days go by so fast and I don't know what we have done. That is what has happened over the last two days.
Thursday we went into Tauranga and the library and did a bit of clothes shopping.
I had seen what I thought was a factory shop so we went to check it out and it turned out to be the biggest charity shop/warehouse I have ever seen so we didn't stay long!
On Friday afternoon we went to the cinema as the weather had turned wet but warmer. We saw The Proposal and it was very, very funny.
It was fish and chip night and we have actually got Heather eating proper fish and she likes it!!
Wednesday, 24 June 2009
A nice lie in
I had a lie in this morning as it was so cold.
I took Totty out while Heather got ready and then we took Totty to the pet shop where you can do DIY dog wash. She smells so bad when she comes back from the kennels.
She was very good while I washed her and conditioned her and then I had to put her in another tub and dry her. She was a bit freaked out at the dryer but she did look and smell nice (the lady sprayed her with perfume) when she was finished.
Heather and I caught up with Neighbours today and then took Totty on a long walk along the beach as the tide was a long way out and would you believe Totty wanted to go into the water, typical as she had just had a nice bath!
I have caught up with the washing now but still have the ironing to do.
I took Totty out while Heather got ready and then we took Totty to the pet shop where you can do DIY dog wash. She smells so bad when she comes back from the kennels.
She was very good while I washed her and conditioned her and then I had to put her in another tub and dry her. She was a bit freaked out at the dryer but she did look and smell nice (the lady sprayed her with perfume) when she was finished.
Heather and I caught up with Neighbours today and then took Totty on a long walk along the beach as the tide was a long way out and would you believe Totty wanted to go into the water, typical as she had just had a nice bath!
I have caught up with the washing now but still have the ironing to do.
Tuesday, 23 June 2009
Tuesday, back to normal
It was sooo cold in the house last night and this morning was freezing but the sun was shinning.
The owner of the house came to collect some things from her cupboard, winter clothes and things and her slow cooker.
I went to get Totty who was very excited to see me with a very gruff bark.
I then did lots of washing and managed to get it all dried.
We went to the supermarket this afternoon and to buy some wood for the fire.
Heather started her scrapbook and we uploaded a lot of pictures onto Facebook.
Dinner was easy from the freezer now I just have to do the ironing but it is nice to be back even though it is cold.
The owner of the house came to collect some things from her cupboard, winter clothes and things and her slow cooker.
I went to get Totty who was very excited to see me with a very gruff bark.
I then did lots of washing and managed to get it all dried.
We went to the supermarket this afternoon and to buy some wood for the fire.
Heather started her scrapbook and we uploaded a lot of pictures onto Facebook.
Dinner was easy from the freezer now I just have to do the ironing but it is nice to be back even though it is cold.
Sydney, Monday
We had room service breakfast again today and I had a lovely bowl of fresh fruit salad with yogurt.
After packing and checking out we left our cases at the apartment and headed down to the tower again to see if Oz Trek was working but we had to wait until 10.30 for it so we took a walk around Hyde Park and went into the cathedral. We went back for the ride and it was OK but not Disney standards.
We then went back to our apartments to wait for the shuttle bus to the airport. When it came it took us all around Sydney picking people up and Jon and I were getting really stressed as it was getting late but we made it to the airport on time and went to check in.
The Qantas girl asked to see our tickets out of NZ and we told her we were living there and had to then show our visas. she then asked for Heather's ticket which of course we didn't have but she accepted Heather's visitor's visa in her passport and told us to go to Air New Zealand and get a printout of her ticket or they might not let her back in the country again. We got a copy of the ticket with no problem and it was just as well as we did need it at Auckland.
We had a quick bite to eat and then our flight was called. It was a lovely clear day so I thought we would have a good flight but how wrong was I. It was really, really bumpy and I did not like it at all. Jon and Heather had the meal on the flight, which was much better than the outward flight but I couldn't eat. It was so bumpy they would not serve tea or coffee.
We had a good landing and it felt really good to be back in N Z. After the hustle and noise and all the rushing about of Sydney Auckland was a lovely change and it smelt clean.
The drive home seemed very long in the dark as you can't see where you are but we made it safe and sound by about midnight.
The house was freezing cold when we got in and I was glad to get into bed.
Australia was very nice and I would like to visit again but I think NZ is much nicer and the people are so much friendlier here and have time for you but that could have just been Sydney.
After packing and checking out we left our cases at the apartment and headed down to the tower again to see if Oz Trek was working but we had to wait until 10.30 for it so we took a walk around Hyde Park and went into the cathedral. We went back for the ride and it was OK but not Disney standards.
We then went back to our apartments to wait for the shuttle bus to the airport. When it came it took us all around Sydney picking people up and Jon and I were getting really stressed as it was getting late but we made it to the airport on time and went to check in.
The Qantas girl asked to see our tickets out of NZ and we told her we were living there and had to then show our visas. she then asked for Heather's ticket which of course we didn't have but she accepted Heather's visitor's visa in her passport and told us to go to Air New Zealand and get a printout of her ticket or they might not let her back in the country again. We got a copy of the ticket with no problem and it was just as well as we did need it at Auckland.
We had a quick bite to eat and then our flight was called. It was a lovely clear day so I thought we would have a good flight but how wrong was I. It was really, really bumpy and I did not like it at all. Jon and Heather had the meal on the flight, which was much better than the outward flight but I couldn't eat. It was so bumpy they would not serve tea or coffee.
We had a good landing and it felt really good to be back in N Z. After the hustle and noise and all the rushing about of Sydney Auckland was a lovely change and it smelt clean.
The drive home seemed very long in the dark as you can't see where you are but we made it safe and sound by about midnight.
The house was freezing cold when we got in and I was glad to get into bed.
Australia was very nice and I would like to visit again but I think NZ is much nicer and the people are so much friendlier here and have time for you but that could have just been Sydney.
Sydney, Sunday
It looked much brighter today and I was now able to stand and look out of the window in the apartment without feeling too bad. The views were amazing. You could see the airport in the distance and see the planes taking off quite clearly and heading in our direction but getting very high before going over our block.
We had bought joint tickets for the Aquarium and the Sky Tower on Saturday so we were very relived it was a clear day or it would have been a waste of time going up. We had breakfast in the street again and arrived at the tower very early and were some of the first people up there.
I was very, very nervous about going up and don't think I have ever felt so frightened. The lift up was very small, only nine people, and it was quite fast but did not bother our ears like the apartment lift.
When I got to the top I stayed near the back wall and I felt very strange like I was floating. I managed to sit at the edge to have a couple of photos taken and i also manage a cup of coffee in the cafe on the floor below. The views were amazing and you can see for miles. The tower is 305 metres high which is twice the height of the harbour bridge. I felt really glad that I had done it although I could not look down only out to the distance. You can upgrade your ticket to a skywalk out on the roof and stand on a glass platform ugh. My tummy goes funny just thinking about it.
When we got down the photographer had taken a photo of us and it was ready for collection and included a DVD, some photos, a calendar and some postcards so we bought it.
The Oz Trek simulator ride was not working so they said we could come back on Monday to do it.
We then walked to the St Mary's Cathedral which is lovely and very like and English cathedral. We then went into the botanical gardens and saw some huge bats hanging around in trees. We then went back to the opera house and took some photos when it was dry before having a very nice pizza for lunch at Circular Quay.
We walked around the harbour and over to the bridge as Jon and Heather wanted to walk across it. There is an excursion you can go on which is a walk right across the top of the arch to the middle and back. There is no way I could do that. I walked with them until it got over the water and then I went back and they carried on to the other side. The photos are enough for me.
We then went to the area under the bridge which is called The Rocks and is the oldest part of Sydney and has been very nicely restored and has lots of little streets with tiny shops and cafes and also a very big street market. We bought chocolate coated strawberries on a skewer - yummy. After a cup of tea in the Bakers Oven cafe it was time to walk home again and our legs were once again feeling very tired.
We passed the Apple shop and Heather took us in and we managed to log on to Facebook and let the world know we were fine and Heather picked up her grades which were very good so she was really pleased.
By the time we got back we were VERY, VERY TIRED and it was hard to get ready to go out for dinner.
We had dinner in a Spanish restaurant which was OK but not brilliant.
I have finished my book so I had to go and buy a magazine to read as I need something for the plane, too.
Today was the shortest day.
When
We had bought joint tickets for the Aquarium and the Sky Tower on Saturday so we were very relived it was a clear day or it would have been a waste of time going up. We had breakfast in the street again and arrived at the tower very early and were some of the first people up there.
I was very, very nervous about going up and don't think I have ever felt so frightened. The lift up was very small, only nine people, and it was quite fast but did not bother our ears like the apartment lift.
When I got to the top I stayed near the back wall and I felt very strange like I was floating. I managed to sit at the edge to have a couple of photos taken and i also manage a cup of coffee in the cafe on the floor below. The views were amazing and you can see for miles. The tower is 305 metres high which is twice the height of the harbour bridge. I felt really glad that I had done it although I could not look down only out to the distance. You can upgrade your ticket to a skywalk out on the roof and stand on a glass platform ugh. My tummy goes funny just thinking about it.
When we got down the photographer had taken a photo of us and it was ready for collection and included a DVD, some photos, a calendar and some postcards so we bought it.
The Oz Trek simulator ride was not working so they said we could come back on Monday to do it.
We then walked to the St Mary's Cathedral which is lovely and very like and English cathedral. We then went into the botanical gardens and saw some huge bats hanging around in trees. We then went back to the opera house and took some photos when it was dry before having a very nice pizza for lunch at Circular Quay.
We walked around the harbour and over to the bridge as Jon and Heather wanted to walk across it. There is an excursion you can go on which is a walk right across the top of the arch to the middle and back. There is no way I could do that. I walked with them until it got over the water and then I went back and they carried on to the other side. The photos are enough for me.
We then went to the area under the bridge which is called The Rocks and is the oldest part of Sydney and has been very nicely restored and has lots of little streets with tiny shops and cafes and also a very big street market. We bought chocolate coated strawberries on a skewer - yummy. After a cup of tea in the Bakers Oven cafe it was time to walk home again and our legs were once again feeling very tired.
We passed the Apple shop and Heather took us in and we managed to log on to Facebook and let the world know we were fine and Heather picked up her grades which were very good so she was really pleased.
By the time we got back we were VERY, VERY TIRED and it was hard to get ready to go out for dinner.
We had dinner in a Spanish restaurant which was OK but not brilliant.
I have finished my book so I had to go and buy a magazine to read as I need something for the plane, too.
Today was the shortest day.
When
Sydney Saturday - My birthday
Has to be the wettest birthday I have ever had.
I took all my birthday cards with me to Sydney so it was lovely to open them. Heather had also brought me a present over from Kirsty which were some lovely earrings.
We went down to a street cafe near the apartments for breakfast and I had a "bowl" of coffee with a bacon roll.
We then had to face the weather and decided to get day passes for the monorail so we went all around once before getting off at the harbour to go to the Aquarium and the rain poured down.
The aquarium looks very small from the outside but is very big with some huge tanks inside and some very interesting fish and sharks.
After the aquarium we got on the monorail again and went to Paddy's Market. This is a huge old building which is full of market stalls on the ground floor selling everything you could imagine. Upstairs they have a food hall with so many noodle bars and sushi bars. Then there are two floors with lots of designer shops. We managed to find a small bar that made up sandwiches to your taste which was more than enough for lunch.
Heather did some souvenir shopping and then we braved the rain again and onto the monorail to head off down to the opera house. On our way walking through the centre we saw a poor young girl wrap her car around a street bollard. We could see what she was going to do but couldn't stop her and she had to make it worse to get out of it - the car was a bit of a mess!
It was very wet by the time we got to the opera house and after taking some photos we headed back and decided to catch a ferry from Circular Quay to Darling Harbour as our feet were killing us. Unfortunately, for Heather, it was bit rough and did not go directly to Darling Harbour but crossed to the other side of the harbour and made three other stops before we were able to get off.
She couldn't have felt too bad though as she managed to persuade us to buy Krispy Kreme doughnuts to have with a cup of tea when we got back!
We did one more round trip on the monorail to see the city by night before getting off at the harbour for dinner. The portions of food in Australia are very big and by this time we were feeling rather full so in the evening I just had a light meal of fish and Jon had duck and Heather had pasta again.
After a wet walk back to the flat we had coffee and an early night. All this walking is killing us.
I took all my birthday cards with me to Sydney so it was lovely to open them. Heather had also brought me a present over from Kirsty which were some lovely earrings.
We went down to a street cafe near the apartments for breakfast and I had a "bowl" of coffee with a bacon roll.
We then had to face the weather and decided to get day passes for the monorail so we went all around once before getting off at the harbour to go to the Aquarium and the rain poured down.
The aquarium looks very small from the outside but is very big with some huge tanks inside and some very interesting fish and sharks.
After the aquarium we got on the monorail again and went to Paddy's Market. This is a huge old building which is full of market stalls on the ground floor selling everything you could imagine. Upstairs they have a food hall with so many noodle bars and sushi bars. Then there are two floors with lots of designer shops. We managed to find a small bar that made up sandwiches to your taste which was more than enough for lunch.
Heather did some souvenir shopping and then we braved the rain again and onto the monorail to head off down to the opera house. On our way walking through the centre we saw a poor young girl wrap her car around a street bollard. We could see what she was going to do but couldn't stop her and she had to make it worse to get out of it - the car was a bit of a mess!
It was very wet by the time we got to the opera house and after taking some photos we headed back and decided to catch a ferry from Circular Quay to Darling Harbour as our feet were killing us. Unfortunately, for Heather, it was bit rough and did not go directly to Darling Harbour but crossed to the other side of the harbour and made three other stops before we were able to get off.
She couldn't have felt too bad though as she managed to persuade us to buy Krispy Kreme doughnuts to have with a cup of tea when we got back!
We did one more round trip on the monorail to see the city by night before getting off at the harbour for dinner. The portions of food in Australia are very big and by this time we were feeling rather full so in the evening I just had a light meal of fish and Jon had duck and Heather had pasta again.
After a wet walk back to the flat we had coffee and an early night. All this walking is killing us.
Sydney, Friday
After a good nights sleep, despite worrying about how I would get down 43 flights of stairs if there was a fire, we ordered breakfast from a cafe and they delivered it to our room which was very nice.
It was a lovely day and we found our way to the harbour and got on the first ferry to go to the zoo. My first impression of Sydney harbour, bridge and opera house will stay with me forever. It is such a lovely place and looks so much better than the photos. We had lots of photo opportunities and snapped away from every angle.
We arrived at the zoo and you have to go up in a chairlift which turned out to be quite a nice ride even though I hate heights. At the top of the park the first thing we saw were the koalas and they are so cute. We booked to have a photo taken with them. It is the law in NSW that you cannot hold or touch the koalas so you just have to stand by them and we got a nice souvenir photo and a DVD.
The zoo was really busy and there seemed to be hundreds of school parties there but we really enjoyed it and the views across to the city are amazing and we saw a Komodo dragon.
We were very tired when we got back to the apartments as we had been walking since 8.30 and it was now 4.30.
After a rest and a change we went out to Darling Harbourside for dinner and I had some very nice salmon. It started to rain and we managed to get back before we got too wet.
The apartment lift plays havoc with your ears both up and down.
It was a lovely day and we found our way to the harbour and got on the first ferry to go to the zoo. My first impression of Sydney harbour, bridge and opera house will stay with me forever. It is such a lovely place and looks so much better than the photos. We had lots of photo opportunities and snapped away from every angle.
We arrived at the zoo and you have to go up in a chairlift which turned out to be quite a nice ride even though I hate heights. At the top of the park the first thing we saw were the koalas and they are so cute. We booked to have a photo taken with them. It is the law in NSW that you cannot hold or touch the koalas so you just have to stand by them and we got a nice souvenir photo and a DVD.
The zoo was really busy and there seemed to be hundreds of school parties there but we really enjoyed it and the views across to the city are amazing and we saw a Komodo dragon.
We were very tired when we got back to the apartments as we had been walking since 8.30 and it was now 4.30.
After a rest and a change we went out to Darling Harbourside for dinner and I had some very nice salmon. It started to rain and we managed to get back before we got too wet.
The apartment lift plays havoc with your ears both up and down.
Sydney, Thursday
Jon and I took Totty to the kennels and usually the man takes her straight through but it was the lady and she was chatting to me and so Totty sat at my feet and did not want to move and the lady had to carry her off and I felt awful.
We set off to Auckland about 10.30 and stopped for coffee in Katikati. We arrived at the airport after a quiet drive and checked in and then went through immigration and security. Jon bought six bottles of red wine at $2 a bottle as they were clearing it. It is a good system as you collect your duty free on the way back so don't have to carry it.
We had a Burger King at the airport as there wasn't much choice. We boarded and took off on time and it was a very good flight apart from the food which was awful. S & S chicken and noodles which were all stuck together and the bread roll was frozen, just as well we weren't hungry. They came round with ice creams and Jon and Heather said that was the best part of the meal but I didn't have one. We landed at 5,00 Oz time and it was already dark so Heather had a good view of the harbour at night. It doesn't get dark so early in NZ.
Immigration and security are very, very strict in Oz and they ask all sorts of questions like "Do you have any bee keeping equipment with you?" Can you believe it!!!! We had to pass through body temperature equipment due to the swine flu problem and one man had written on his health form that he had a cough and they made him wear a mask and took him off for swabs.
It was raining when we arrived so we got a taxi to our apartments which were right in the centre near Darling Harbour and Chinatown. The traffic was amazing, just like London and at one point the driver took a right turn right across two cars at some lights, we were glad to get to our apartments. We checked in and Jon broke the bad news to me that we were on the 43rd floor. I nearly died. Up we went in the lift with ears popping more than on the plane. The apartment was lovely with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, a kitchen and lounge/dinner and a lovely kitchen with dishwasher. It also had a laundry area in the hall, everything you need and very clean and modern but I couldn't go near the window and was very glad that the patio door was locked and you were not allowed out there or Jon and Heather would have had to check it out and I would have felt worse than I did. Once we closed the curtains I was fine.
We got ready and went out to look for a place to eat and found an Italian. There were so many Chinese people in the area and lots of Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean restaurants. I had a club sandwich which was enormous and Jon had some lovely steak while Heather went for the safe option of spaghetti.
We were quite tired by this time as there is a two hour time difference and so we went back for coffee and watched TV which is every bit as bad as NZ.
One big thing though the apartment had heating and it was so nice to be warm again.
We set off to Auckland about 10.30 and stopped for coffee in Katikati. We arrived at the airport after a quiet drive and checked in and then went through immigration and security. Jon bought six bottles of red wine at $2 a bottle as they were clearing it. It is a good system as you collect your duty free on the way back so don't have to carry it.
We had a Burger King at the airport as there wasn't much choice. We boarded and took off on time and it was a very good flight apart from the food which was awful. S & S chicken and noodles which were all stuck together and the bread roll was frozen, just as well we weren't hungry. They came round with ice creams and Jon and Heather said that was the best part of the meal but I didn't have one. We landed at 5,00 Oz time and it was already dark so Heather had a good view of the harbour at night. It doesn't get dark so early in NZ.
Immigration and security are very, very strict in Oz and they ask all sorts of questions like "Do you have any bee keeping equipment with you?" Can you believe it!!!! We had to pass through body temperature equipment due to the swine flu problem and one man had written on his health form that he had a cough and they made him wear a mask and took him off for swabs.
It was raining when we arrived so we got a taxi to our apartments which were right in the centre near Darling Harbour and Chinatown. The traffic was amazing, just like London and at one point the driver took a right turn right across two cars at some lights, we were glad to get to our apartments. We checked in and Jon broke the bad news to me that we were on the 43rd floor. I nearly died. Up we went in the lift with ears popping more than on the plane. The apartment was lovely with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, a kitchen and lounge/dinner and a lovely kitchen with dishwasher. It also had a laundry area in the hall, everything you need and very clean and modern but I couldn't go near the window and was very glad that the patio door was locked and you were not allowed out there or Jon and Heather would have had to check it out and I would have felt worse than I did. Once we closed the curtains I was fine.
We got ready and went out to look for a place to eat and found an Italian. There were so many Chinese people in the area and lots of Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean restaurants. I had a club sandwich which was enormous and Jon had some lovely steak while Heather went for the safe option of spaghetti.
We were quite tired by this time as there is a two hour time difference and so we went back for coffee and watched TV which is every bit as bad as NZ.
One big thing though the apartment had heating and it was so nice to be warm again.
Wednesday, 17 June 2009
Our first frost
We were told they never have frost in this part but we did today. The weather people say it is because of the huge amount of snow that is falling on the central plateau and we are getting the cold blown up from there. Whatever, it was really bitter today.
I had a hair appointment this morning and then Heather and I went to the Mount for lunch and to have a look around the shops there. We then went on to Bay Fair and Heather bought a case for her new camera 80c - she was very pleased with her bargain.
When we got back we took Totty out and then it was down to packing and getting ready for Sydney - we are soo looking forward to it.
I probably won't get chance to update my blog in Oz so no more entries until we get back.
I had a hair appointment this morning and then Heather and I went to the Mount for lunch and to have a look around the shops there. We then went on to Bay Fair and Heather bought a case for her new camera 80c - she was very pleased with her bargain.
When we got back we took Totty out and then it was down to packing and getting ready for Sydney - we are soo looking forward to it.
I probably won't get chance to update my blog in Oz so no more entries until we get back.
Tuesday, 16 June 2009
Monday & Tuesday
We went into Tauranga to get Totty's new registration tag and also got soem books at the library and a quick look around the shops and it was time to get back for lunch.
In the afternoon we went to Fraser Cove as Heather had seen a scarf she liked and wanted to buy. We looked around the shops for presents for Jon's birthday finally settling on a jig saw, a book on NZ and some beer - he is very difficult to buy for.
Trying to getr washining and clothes ready for Sydney on Thursday
Took Totty out and met Linda with her dog in the park and we all had a chat.
It was early to bed on Monday as we have an early start on Tuesday. Jon has a meeting in Taupo and we are going with him.
We managed to set off at 8.30 and the wether looked fine but a bit cloudy.
When we got to Taupo it was very cold (it is only an hour away from the North Island ski resorts and a chill wind comes across the lake). Jon dropped us off and went to his meeting and we had a look for a little farm but a lady told us it had closed to we went for a walk along the lake and then had a drink before going to the museum which had some very pretty gardens. Jon met us there and we then went to Huka Falls which are really lovely. The water cascades through a narrow channel and is a lovely pale blue colour with lots of white water. You can go for speed boat rides on the falls but I don't think I will ever do that - I will leave it for Kirsty when she comes over with James.
After that we went to Puzzleworld and went into a maize which was fun as we had to get to all four corners. We then took ages to find a place for lunch and ended up back in Rotorua.
On the way we pass Okere Falls so we popped in to see them and although they are pretty after seeing Huka Falls on the same day they did not impress.
It was late when we got back so poor Totty missed out on her walk but does not seem too bothered.
So far Jon has enjoyed his birthday and liked his presents. I am cooking him some nice lamb chops tonight so that should finish his day off very well.
In the afternoon we went to Fraser Cove as Heather had seen a scarf she liked and wanted to buy. We looked around the shops for presents for Jon's birthday finally settling on a jig saw, a book on NZ and some beer - he is very difficult to buy for.
Trying to getr washining and clothes ready for Sydney on Thursday
Took Totty out and met Linda with her dog in the park and we all had a chat.
It was early to bed on Monday as we have an early start on Tuesday. Jon has a meeting in Taupo and we are going with him.
We managed to set off at 8.30 and the wether looked fine but a bit cloudy.
When we got to Taupo it was very cold (it is only an hour away from the North Island ski resorts and a chill wind comes across the lake). Jon dropped us off and went to his meeting and we had a look for a little farm but a lady told us it had closed to we went for a walk along the lake and then had a drink before going to the museum which had some very pretty gardens. Jon met us there and we then went to Huka Falls which are really lovely. The water cascades through a narrow channel and is a lovely pale blue colour with lots of white water. You can go for speed boat rides on the falls but I don't think I will ever do that - I will leave it for Kirsty when she comes over with James.
After that we went to Puzzleworld and went into a maize which was fun as we had to get to all four corners. We then took ages to find a place for lunch and ended up back in Rotorua.
On the way we pass Okere Falls so we popped in to see them and although they are pretty after seeing Huka Falls on the same day they did not impress.
It was late when we got back so poor Totty missed out on her walk but does not seem too bothered.
So far Jon has enjoyed his birthday and liked his presents. I am cooking him some nice lamb chops tonight so that should finish his day off very well.
Sunday, 14 June 2009
Sunday
Well Jon and I thought Blood Brothers was very good for a school play but Heather wasn't impressed. She now realises how good we were to sit through so many school plays and to say we enjoyed them. It all comes down to knowing people who are in them I think!
We had a quiet day today and just went down to the Mount for lunch and then a walk out to the island to see the blow hole while eating a very good ice cream. We were standing at the end on the rocks and a rat popped its head out and Heather nearly died on the spot.
We then went to Memorial Gardens and played mini golf. I won but Jon scored a hole in one on the 18th and so we won a free game for when we go again.
We took Totty out and gave her a good run and a play with her ball. The weather is a bit warmer today.
We had a quiet day today and just went down to the Mount for lunch and then a walk out to the island to see the blow hole while eating a very good ice cream. We were standing at the end on the rocks and a rat popped its head out and Heather nearly died on the spot.
We then went to Memorial Gardens and played mini golf. I won but Jon scored a hole in one on the 18th and so we won a free game for when we go again.
We took Totty out and gave her a good run and a play with her ball. The weather is a bit warmer today.
Saturday, 13 June 2009
Heather's second Weekend
After dinner last night we told Heather that we had booked to go to Sydney for my birthday and would be leaving on Thursday till Monday. To say she was surprised would be an understatement. I don't know how we have managed to keep it a secret as she has been asking what we are going to do and trying to plan her weekends. She is now so excited as I am.
The weather was a bit brighter and Jon and I managed to get Totty out for a walk this morning before heading off to McLaren Falls. The last time we were at the falls was back in the summer when you could swim in the falls and walk across the rocks. Today was very different. The water was thundering down and the little rock pools were completely covered. They looked completely different. We then went up into the park and walked along the lake and fed the ducks and then took a walk into the bush along glow worm track but we didn't see any glow worms just a pretty little waterfall but it was all very muddy and we should have had our wellies on again.
We had lunch at the park cafe and then went to look at some miniature horses which were a bit of a waste of time but it passed and hour.
We then went out to Waimarino Adventure Park where they do kayak trips. They say no experience necessary but I don't think I fancy being in one of those little kayaks in case it flips over - the water must be very cold at this time of year!
A thunderstorm came over and it poured with rain again.
We are going to see Blood Brothers tonight at the Boys College and I hope it will be good.
The weather was a bit brighter and Jon and I managed to get Totty out for a walk this morning before heading off to McLaren Falls. The last time we were at the falls was back in the summer when you could swim in the falls and walk across the rocks. Today was very different. The water was thundering down and the little rock pools were completely covered. They looked completely different. We then went up into the park and walked along the lake and fed the ducks and then took a walk into the bush along glow worm track but we didn't see any glow worms just a pretty little waterfall but it was all very muddy and we should have had our wellies on again.
We had lunch at the park cafe and then went to look at some miniature horses which were a bit of a waste of time but it passed and hour.
We then went out to Waimarino Adventure Park where they do kayak trips. They say no experience necessary but I don't think I fancy being in one of those little kayaks in case it flips over - the water must be very cold at this time of year!
A thunderstorm came over and it poured with rain again.
We are going to see Blood Brothers tonight at the Boys College and I hope it will be good.
Friday, 12 June 2009
Fieldays, Hamilton 2009
We could not have picked a wetter day to go to an agricultural show!!!!! We were so glad we had bought our wellies.
We drove through the most dreadful rain on the way over to the show which is between Cambridge and Hamilton and is a cross between the Suffolk/Norfolk show and the Ideal Home exhibition and is on a huge site.
When we got there Jon went off with one of his colleagues to look at sprayers, chemical cabinets and generators so Heather and I went off on our own. First stop was for coffee, hot chocolate and a muffin. We then braved the rain and looked around for two hours or more. I am sure, had it not been for the rain, it was very good. We spent quite some time in the food marquee and sampled some interesting things including fried brussel sprouts with garlic and almonds, very good. Heather tried some very nice ice cream and we tried chilli chocolate and raspberry truffles.
The out door displays were, amongst other things, chainsaw demonstrations and tractor races all very good if you are into that sort of thing. One tent was selling hot roast beef sandwiches and had a big cow in the tent - mean!
The rain certainly did not stop the Kiwis attending and the place was very busy. With all the lovely food about we probably chose the worst place to eat but we were past caring at the time. We met up with Jon after lunch and had a quick look around with him as he had spent the whole time talking.
The rain had really started to fall heavily and so we decided enough was enough and headed to a very boggy car park but we managed to get onto the hard road without any problems even though they had quad bikes to pull cars out I was glad we did not need to.
The drive back was just as bad and over the Kaima Mountains, where the view is breathtaking on a good day, you couldn't see a thing. I was very glad to get home.
We had fish and chips for dinner and Jon lit the fire and it was good to feel warm and cosy.
Heather is getting the wrong impression of New Zealand which is a pity.
We drove through the most dreadful rain on the way over to the show which is between Cambridge and Hamilton and is a cross between the Suffolk/Norfolk show and the Ideal Home exhibition and is on a huge site.
When we got there Jon went off with one of his colleagues to look at sprayers, chemical cabinets and generators so Heather and I went off on our own. First stop was for coffee, hot chocolate and a muffin. We then braved the rain and looked around for two hours or more. I am sure, had it not been for the rain, it was very good. We spent quite some time in the food marquee and sampled some interesting things including fried brussel sprouts with garlic and almonds, very good. Heather tried some very nice ice cream and we tried chilli chocolate and raspberry truffles.
The out door displays were, amongst other things, chainsaw demonstrations and tractor races all very good if you are into that sort of thing. One tent was selling hot roast beef sandwiches and had a big cow in the tent - mean!
The rain certainly did not stop the Kiwis attending and the place was very busy. With all the lovely food about we probably chose the worst place to eat but we were past caring at the time. We met up with Jon after lunch and had a quick look around with him as he had spent the whole time talking.
The rain had really started to fall heavily and so we decided enough was enough and headed to a very boggy car park but we managed to get onto the hard road without any problems even though they had quad bikes to pull cars out I was glad we did not need to.
The drive back was just as bad and over the Kaima Mountains, where the view is breathtaking on a good day, you couldn't see a thing. I was very glad to get home.
We had fish and chips for dinner and Jon lit the fire and it was good to feel warm and cosy.
Heather is getting the wrong impression of New Zealand which is a pity.
Thursday, 11 June 2009
It is so nice to see the sun
After two days of no walks Totty really enjoyed her walk this morning.
Heather and I went to Kiwi 360 and had a look around the gift shop and had a coffee and an iced chocolate. We didn't do the tractor tour as there are no kiwifruit on the vines to see but she got the general idea.
We then went on to a little place called Maketu and had a little walk by the beach.
Our next stop was to a centre that has lots of bees and makes lots of products from honey and beeswax etc. It wasn't the most exciting place I have ever been to.
We then went to Papamoa and found a cafe and had lunch before a quick look around the shops and then back to the house and not a drop of rain!
We took Totty out for a walk in the park and then I did some much needed housework. It is amazing the difference one extra person in a house makes but I wouldn't have it any other way. The days are flying by so fast I can hardly believe it.
Jon's flight was on time and he got home about 5.30.
Heather and I went to Kiwi 360 and had a look around the gift shop and had a coffee and an iced chocolate. We didn't do the tractor tour as there are no kiwifruit on the vines to see but she got the general idea.
We then went on to a little place called Maketu and had a little walk by the beach.
Our next stop was to a centre that has lots of bees and makes lots of products from honey and beeswax etc. It wasn't the most exciting place I have ever been to.
We then went to Papamoa and found a cafe and had lunch before a quick look around the shops and then back to the house and not a drop of rain!
We took Totty out for a walk in the park and then I did some much needed housework. It is amazing the difference one extra person in a house makes but I wouldn't have it any other way. The days are flying by so fast I can hardly believe it.
Jon's flight was on time and he got home about 5.30.
Wednesday, 10 June 2009
It is still raining
Well it rained all through the night and got really heavy in the early hours of the morning.
The rain is dripping on Heather's window and making a lot of noise and she can't sleep so maybe she will have to try the other room unless it stops tonight.
Jon was flying to Wellington and then on to Blenham today and forgot to take his passport so I had to rush off to the airport in all the awful wind and rain to give it to him. I was not happy to be driving in such awful weather but I got there and back in one piece even though I did drive the wrong way into the rental car drop off area and then couldn't get out again. I had to keep pressing the button on the barrier until someone opened it for me - I got very wet with the window open as I was waiting!
We are going to an agricultural show in Hamilton on Friday and as we have had so much rain we thought wellies would be a good idea so after lunch we went to have a look for some. Heather got some black ones with blue flowers and I got some black ones with blue umbrellas. We also bought some scrapbook stuff for Heather to get on with her NZ scrapbook
Heather wanted Dominos pizza for dinner so she ordered that online and we went out to collect it. It was a bit foggy, not a good experience for my first night drive in N but we managed OK. Heather forgot to get cheese on her pizza so we had to put some on and put it in the grill for a few minutes and then she enjoyed it. I was not so impressed as I thought the base on mine was too thick but it wasn't bad for £8 for two big pizzas.
Jon got to Blenham OK and back to Wellington in the evening and will fly home tomorrow.
The rain has stopped so hopefully Heather will sleep OK tonight.
The rain is dripping on Heather's window and making a lot of noise and she can't sleep so maybe she will have to try the other room unless it stops tonight.
Jon was flying to Wellington and then on to Blenham today and forgot to take his passport so I had to rush off to the airport in all the awful wind and rain to give it to him. I was not happy to be driving in such awful weather but I got there and back in one piece even though I did drive the wrong way into the rental car drop off area and then couldn't get out again. I had to keep pressing the button on the barrier until someone opened it for me - I got very wet with the window open as I was waiting!
We are going to an agricultural show in Hamilton on Friday and as we have had so much rain we thought wellies would be a good idea so after lunch we went to have a look for some. Heather got some black ones with blue flowers and I got some black ones with blue umbrellas. We also bought some scrapbook stuff for Heather to get on with her NZ scrapbook
Heather wanted Dominos pizza for dinner so she ordered that online and we went out to collect it. It was a bit foggy, not a good experience for my first night drive in N but we managed OK. Heather forgot to get cheese on her pizza so we had to put some on and put it in the grill for a few minutes and then she enjoyed it. I was not so impressed as I thought the base on mine was too thick but it wasn't bad for £8 for two big pizzas.
Jon got to Blenham OK and back to Wellington in the evening and will fly home tomorrow.
The rain has stopped so hopefully Heather will sleep OK tonight.
Tuesday, 9 June 2009
A very, very wet day.
It started to rain in the middle of the night and we have had heavy rain all day.
We managed to get out for an hour this morning and go and have a look at trainers for me as mine are wearing out. After that we had to go to the theatre as I had bought tickets for Blood Brothers on Saturday and they had only charged me 0.75 cents instead of $75 and I had not noticed so we had to go and pay the difference.
We had a look around a gift shop and bought some birthday cards and then we came back for lunch.
The rest of the afternoon was spent sitting by the fire watching TV and cooking chilli.
I have a Lions business meeting to go to tonight but really don't feel like going out in all this rain and cold.
We managed to get out for an hour this morning and go and have a look at trainers for me as mine are wearing out. After that we had to go to the theatre as I had bought tickets for Blood Brothers on Saturday and they had only charged me 0.75 cents instead of $75 and I had not noticed so we had to go and pay the difference.
We had a look around a gift shop and bought some birthday cards and then we came back for lunch.
The rest of the afternoon was spent sitting by the fire watching TV and cooking chilli.
I have a Lions business meeting to go to tonight but really don't feel like going out in all this rain and cold.
Monday, 8 June 2009
Washing day come what may.......
The weather was reasonable and I managed to get my washing done and out on the line to dry before we went to Fraser Cove.
We had a look around the shops for a scrapbook for Heather but could not find what we wanted. Heather likes the wellies they have here and so took some photos of them to get an opinion from her friends - she is going to wear them to go home as they are too heavy to put in the case! After a quick trip to the supermarket it was back for lunch.
Heather and I went over to Bay Fair shopping in the afternoon and I had a white chocolate and raspberry ice cream and Heather had a hot chocolate pudding with cream.
Back home again and it was time to take Totty out and as the tide was out we were able to walk along the beach.
I did the ironing in the afternoon and Heather watched TV - I hope she is not going to get too bored, there is only so many places you can visit and we have to spread them over her seven weeks.
Jon took her out to the Warehouse (a big shop that sells everything) when he got home as she had seen a camera there and as hers is on the blink she needs a new one. She came back very happy with her purchase.
We had a look around the shops for a scrapbook for Heather but could not find what we wanted. Heather likes the wellies they have here and so took some photos of them to get an opinion from her friends - she is going to wear them to go home as they are too heavy to put in the case! After a quick trip to the supermarket it was back for lunch.
Heather and I went over to Bay Fair shopping in the afternoon and I had a white chocolate and raspberry ice cream and Heather had a hot chocolate pudding with cream.
Back home again and it was time to take Totty out and as the tide was out we were able to walk along the beach.
I did the ironing in the afternoon and Heather watched TV - I hope she is not going to get too bored, there is only so many places you can visit and we have to spread them over her seven weeks.
Jon took her out to the Warehouse (a big shop that sells everything) when he got home as she had seen a camera there and as hers is on the blink she needs a new one. She came back very happy with her purchase.
Sunday, 7 June 2009
Another busy day
We decided to go out for breakfast this morning as we were up a bit later than usual and we had planned to go to the D Day celebrations at the airport, something that Heather had seen in the paper and fancied doing.
We arrived at the airport and found a space to watch all the goings on which were OK but not my cup of tea with all that standing - it kills my back. The air display with the old planes was very good but the battle re enactment was a bit feeble.
At the break we went off to get some lunch but the queues were so long. I think the good weather had brought more people out than they could cope with. We finally managed to get a cup of soup for Jon and a sausage in a piece of bread with some onions for Heather and I - we got two of the last four sausages and there was still a huge queue behind us. We were starving and a sausage has never tasted so good.
The rest of the display was fine with two planes having a pretend dog fight and men jumping in by parachute and then the final battle, not a bad day for $10 (£4). Heather and Jon really enjoyed it.
After that we went looking for a new camera for Heather but she needs to do a bit of research before she decides which one to buy.
Then it was home for a well needed cup of tea before dragging ourselves out again to walk Totty.
We arrived at the airport and found a space to watch all the goings on which were OK but not my cup of tea with all that standing - it kills my back. The air display with the old planes was very good but the battle re enactment was a bit feeble.
At the break we went off to get some lunch but the queues were so long. I think the good weather had brought more people out than they could cope with. We finally managed to get a cup of soup for Jon and a sausage in a piece of bread with some onions for Heather and I - we got two of the last four sausages and there was still a huge queue behind us. We were starving and a sausage has never tasted so good.
The rest of the display was fine with two planes having a pretend dog fight and men jumping in by parachute and then the final battle, not a bad day for $10 (£4). Heather and Jon really enjoyed it.
After that we went looking for a new camera for Heather but she needs to do a bit of research before she decides which one to buy.
Then it was home for a well needed cup of tea before dragging ourselves out again to walk Totty.
Saturday, 6 June 2009
Waimangu & Rotorua
We managed to get on the road by 10.00 and were in Rotorua by 11.00.
We arrived at Waimangu which is a thermal park just a 20 minute drive south of Rotorua.
We bought our tickets which included a 45 minute boat ride on Lake Rotomahan and then had a coffee and bought a bar of chocolate for emergency rations as we would not get back for lunch until nearly 3.00.
The walk through the park, which is one of the most recent opened, - 1917 - was truly amazing with so much geothermal activity and lakes and streams with names like Emerald Pool which changes colour, depending on what plant life is growing there, from blue , brown and emerald. We saw Echo Crater and Frying Pan Lake and then went on to Inferno Crater which was bight blue before heading on down to Marble Terrace where the water cascades down and makes steps which look like marble.
We stopped at Hot Water Creek and springs and you can get very close to the water and it has lots of little areas of bubbling water and Jon just had to see how hot it was and really regretted it as it burnt his finger! Boys will be boys!
We continued on down the valley to Lake Rotomahana where we boarded our boat for a lovely trip around the lake and into Star Crater. The lake is 500 m at its deepest. We went round the lake and saw the geothermal activity in the rocks and the lovely colours. In parts it is so hot the ducks and other birds cannot go near the rocks. it was so lovely and so very hard to put into words not to mention the smell. By far the better of the two parks we have visited in Rotorua.
There is a bus to take you back up to the entrance and we needed it.
We went into Rotorua and had an amazing lunch in the Fat Dog. I had a delicious seafood chowder, Heather had a bacon and cheese panini and Jon had a roast beef sandwich which was huge with two slices of bread and lots of beef and gravy and a fascinating place with lots of animal jokes and stories written on the chairs, walls and plates.
We then went down to Lake Rotorua and checked out sea plane flights for Jon and Heather to do next time we visit.
We then went off to Kuirau Park to show Heather the thermal mud pools and lakes.
By the time we had driven home we were all very tired and by the time we had the fire lit we were fit for nothing and Totty did not get her afternoon walk as it was too dark.
We were so full from lunch we could only mange some chicken and salad for dinner.
There is a special D Day celebration on tomorrow which we are going to see, Heather's suggestion! I am looking forward to my bed tonight!
We arrived at Waimangu which is a thermal park just a 20 minute drive south of Rotorua.
We bought our tickets which included a 45 minute boat ride on Lake Rotomahan and then had a coffee and bought a bar of chocolate for emergency rations as we would not get back for lunch until nearly 3.00.
The walk through the park, which is one of the most recent opened, - 1917 - was truly amazing with so much geothermal activity and lakes and streams with names like Emerald Pool which changes colour, depending on what plant life is growing there, from blue , brown and emerald. We saw Echo Crater and Frying Pan Lake and then went on to Inferno Crater which was bight blue before heading on down to Marble Terrace where the water cascades down and makes steps which look like marble.
We stopped at Hot Water Creek and springs and you can get very close to the water and it has lots of little areas of bubbling water and Jon just had to see how hot it was and really regretted it as it burnt his finger! Boys will be boys!
We continued on down the valley to Lake Rotomahana where we boarded our boat for a lovely trip around the lake and into Star Crater. The lake is 500 m at its deepest. We went round the lake and saw the geothermal activity in the rocks and the lovely colours. In parts it is so hot the ducks and other birds cannot go near the rocks. it was so lovely and so very hard to put into words not to mention the smell. By far the better of the two parks we have visited in Rotorua.
There is a bus to take you back up to the entrance and we needed it.
We went into Rotorua and had an amazing lunch in the Fat Dog. I had a delicious seafood chowder, Heather had a bacon and cheese panini and Jon had a roast beef sandwich which was huge with two slices of bread and lots of beef and gravy and a fascinating place with lots of animal jokes and stories written on the chairs, walls and plates.
We then went down to Lake Rotorua and checked out sea plane flights for Jon and Heather to do next time we visit.
We then went off to Kuirau Park to show Heather the thermal mud pools and lakes.
By the time we had driven home we were all very tired and by the time we had the fire lit we were fit for nothing and Totty did not get her afternoon walk as it was too dark.
We were so full from lunch we could only mange some chicken and salad for dinner.
There is a special D Day celebration on tomorrow which we are going to see, Heather's suggestion! I am looking forward to my bed tonight!
Friday, 5 June 2009
Friday
Jon put fresh coal on the fire before we went to bed last night so it was nice and warm in the living room when we got up today and it made such a difference.
I met the corgi and his owner this morning and had a chat and a play, it is good that the dogs get on well now.
Heather and I went into Tauranga and she had a look around the shops to compare the fashions and the prices. We had a drink down by the harbour in the sun but there is a definite chill in the air now.
We went and booked seats to see Blood Brothers which the boy's and girl's colleges are putting on next week, it won't be London but I thought it might be worth seeing.
We went home for lunch as Jon was coming back and in the afternoon we went down to Fraser Cove and had a look around more shops before doing the weekly shop. My feet are killing me, I am not used to being this active!
I have managed to keep the fire going all day so the house is warm, well the living room is! Jon will be pleased he does not have to light the fire from scratch tonight.
And it is Friday so it is fish and chips!
I met the corgi and his owner this morning and had a chat and a play, it is good that the dogs get on well now.
Heather and I went into Tauranga and she had a look around the shops to compare the fashions and the prices. We had a drink down by the harbour in the sun but there is a definite chill in the air now.
We went and booked seats to see Blood Brothers which the boy's and girl's colleges are putting on next week, it won't be London but I thought it might be worth seeing.
We went home for lunch as Jon was coming back and in the afternoon we went down to Fraser Cove and had a look around more shops before doing the weekly shop. My feet are killing me, I am not used to being this active!
I have managed to keep the fire going all day so the house is warm, well the living room is! Jon will be pleased he does not have to light the fire from scratch tonight.
And it is Friday so it is fish and chips!
Thursday, 4 June 2009
Heather's first day.
Well she slept very well but was awake at 7.00. We had put an oil filled radiator in her room and she had two duvets and a hot water bottle so she was certainly not cold but I was as it was freezing this morning. I am not enjoying winter here even though people keep telling me it is not usually this cold. I long for central heating!
I took Totty out while she caught up with her friends in UK on Facebook etc she is finding it very confusing with the time.
We went out for coffee and hot chocolate and a muffin and then went to have a look around the shops at Fraser Cove. There is a lovely pet shop there and we spent far too long playing with the kittens and the Labradoodle puppies. We saw that they have DIY dog wash for $17.50 and they have a dryer there so I think I might take Totty up there as she smells quite bad when she comes out of kennels.
We went to the supermarket and bought shampoo etc as I had told her not to bring anything like that. By the time we got back Jon was home for lunch.
We watched neighbours and Heather was confused as we are ahead, about the only thing we are ahead with!
Totty is getting used to Heather being around now.
We went down to Rotary park this afternoon and met a little Jack Russell dog there and he played with Totty so well and they really had a good run around.
I took Totty out while she caught up with her friends in UK on Facebook etc she is finding it very confusing with the time.
We went out for coffee and hot chocolate and a muffin and then went to have a look around the shops at Fraser Cove. There is a lovely pet shop there and we spent far too long playing with the kittens and the Labradoodle puppies. We saw that they have DIY dog wash for $17.50 and they have a dryer there so I think I might take Totty up there as she smells quite bad when she comes out of kennels.
We went to the supermarket and bought shampoo etc as I had told her not to bring anything like that. By the time we got back Jon was home for lunch.
We watched neighbours and Heather was confused as we are ahead, about the only thing we are ahead with!
Totty is getting used to Heather being around now.
We went down to Rotary park this afternoon and met a little Jack Russell dog there and he played with Totty so well and they really had a good run around.
Wednesday, 3 June 2009
Wednesday
The hotel room was really cold as we had turned the heating off as it was so noisy. Glad to get up and have a hot shower.
The car was completely frozen in the car park and we had to de ice it - I am glad we don't live in Auckland!
Fortunately, we decided to have breakfast at the airport and it was just as well as we arrived at 8.30 and Heather's plane landed at 8.40 - 20 minute early. We had a quick Subway breakfast roll and a cup of coffee and Heather came through at 9.10. We thought that was pretty impressive, half an hour total to get off the plane and clear immigration and customs! I was so happy to see her and yes I had a cry!
She was very tired and had not slept but had enjoyed the journey, she watched seven films and listened to two albums. She really enjoyed the stopover in Hong Kong and says she would like to visit there properly one day as it looked amazing.
We set off from the airport and drove into quite thick fog so we were really glad we had stayed the night at the airport as it would not have been a good drive up in the dark and the fog with such and early start as we would have had to have. The fog cleared around about Thames and it was then lovely clear blue sky and sunshine for the rest of the way.
Heather had not enjoyed the food on the plane and was very hungry so we stopped at Paeroa, where they used to make the very famous Lemon and Paeroa drink. She tucked into bacon toast and hash browns while we had a coffee.
We arrived at the house and dropped off her things and she had a quick shower and then we went out for lunch to the Mount. She was very tired but we had to keep her awake so had a bit of a walk on the beach and then went off to the supermarket. We bought her some very smart flannelette pyjamas as the only ones she had brought had little strappy tops and I just knew she would be cold, we also bought her some fluffy bed socks. (This house is really cold at night)
We went over to the kennels to get Totty and Heather was quite upset that Totty did not know her and I was very surprised as I thought she would have.
Back at the house Heather was fading fast so we let her have a little sleep but then made her stay up till 9.00 or she would have been waking up in the early hours and not be able to get back to sleep.
It is so nice to have her here not that she can believe she is here at the moment as it is all so strange and she is spaced out but she will be better tomorrow.
The car was completely frozen in the car park and we had to de ice it - I am glad we don't live in Auckland!
Fortunately, we decided to have breakfast at the airport and it was just as well as we arrived at 8.30 and Heather's plane landed at 8.40 - 20 minute early. We had a quick Subway breakfast roll and a cup of coffee and Heather came through at 9.10. We thought that was pretty impressive, half an hour total to get off the plane and clear immigration and customs! I was so happy to see her and yes I had a cry!
She was very tired and had not slept but had enjoyed the journey, she watched seven films and listened to two albums. She really enjoyed the stopover in Hong Kong and says she would like to visit there properly one day as it looked amazing.
We set off from the airport and drove into quite thick fog so we were really glad we had stayed the night at the airport as it would not have been a good drive up in the dark and the fog with such and early start as we would have had to have. The fog cleared around about Thames and it was then lovely clear blue sky and sunshine for the rest of the way.
Heather had not enjoyed the food on the plane and was very hungry so we stopped at Paeroa, where they used to make the very famous Lemon and Paeroa drink. She tucked into bacon toast and hash browns while we had a coffee.
We arrived at the house and dropped off her things and she had a quick shower and then we went out for lunch to the Mount. She was very tired but we had to keep her awake so had a bit of a walk on the beach and then went off to the supermarket. We bought her some very smart flannelette pyjamas as the only ones she had brought had little strappy tops and I just knew she would be cold, we also bought her some fluffy bed socks. (This house is really cold at night)
We went over to the kennels to get Totty and Heather was quite upset that Totty did not know her and I was very surprised as I thought she would have.
Back at the house Heather was fading fast so we let her have a little sleep but then made her stay up till 9.00 or she would have been waking up in the early hours and not be able to get back to sleep.
It is so nice to have her here not that she can believe she is here at the moment as it is all so strange and she is spaced out but she will be better tomorrow.
Tuesday and up to Auckland
After taking Totty out for her walk I took her over to the kennels. I hope she will be warm enough tonight as she is used to being covered up at bedtime!
We finally left at 11.30 and had a good drive up through Matamata which is a longer route but a better road. We stopped off at a little cafe for lunch and arrived in Auckland at 2.00.
Jon had to meet a man in 'Newmarket' but the man had not called him to say where exactly. We found Newmarket without too much bother, it is a suburb of Auckland, but then could not contact the man to find out where to go, it was by this time 3.00 when the meeting should start. To cut a very long story short we decided to head back to the airport and out hotel and the man finally contacted us at 4.00. Needless to say the meeting did not take place - so laid back these people!
The hotel was fine and we had a very good meal there.
We finally left at 11.30 and had a good drive up through Matamata which is a longer route but a better road. We stopped off at a little cafe for lunch and arrived in Auckland at 2.00.
Jon had to meet a man in 'Newmarket' but the man had not called him to say where exactly. We found Newmarket without too much bother, it is a suburb of Auckland, but then could not contact the man to find out where to go, it was by this time 3.00 when the meeting should start. To cut a very long story short we decided to head back to the airport and out hotel and the man finally contacted us at 4.00. Needless to say the meeting did not take place - so laid back these people!
The hotel was fine and we had a very good meal there.
Monday, 1 June 2009
Bank Holiday Monday with a nip in the air
Yesterday the weather man said the wind chill factor would make it very cold and it didn't but today it did.
As the tide was out this morning we were able to walk right along the beach and as it is sheltered by the hill it was good.
We went up to Fraser Cove for coffee and to buy some wood and coal for the fire. Jon is missing, and needing the exercise, his walks in the evenings and so we looked at exercise bikes. I bought some weights that I need for my Body & Soul class, very light ones!
I took my ham bag and label back to the supermarket and they were very apologetic and refunded the total cost to me.
On our way back we popped in to have a look around the Memorial Park. It is very nice in there and has a mini golf, a miniature railway and an outdoor swimming pool, obviously not open right now but looks good for the summer. When the tide is out it would also be a good doggy walking place.
Out kiwifruit are finally ripening and I had one today and it was very good.
After checking out exercise bikes on the internet Jon decided the one in Fraser Cove was a good buy and so after taking Totty on a lovely walk through Yatton Park and all the crunchy leaves we went to buy it. He has no excuses now!
Dinner was good and Dr Who Easter special was even better.
I am soo nervous about Heather coming. I will be happy once I know she has checked in and is on her way!!!!!
As the tide was out this morning we were able to walk right along the beach and as it is sheltered by the hill it was good.
We went up to Fraser Cove for coffee and to buy some wood and coal for the fire. Jon is missing, and needing the exercise, his walks in the evenings and so we looked at exercise bikes. I bought some weights that I need for my Body & Soul class, very light ones!
I took my ham bag and label back to the supermarket and they were very apologetic and refunded the total cost to me.
On our way back we popped in to have a look around the Memorial Park. It is very nice in there and has a mini golf, a miniature railway and an outdoor swimming pool, obviously not open right now but looks good for the summer. When the tide is out it would also be a good doggy walking place.
Out kiwifruit are finally ripening and I had one today and it was very good.
After checking out exercise bikes on the internet Jon decided the one in Fraser Cove was a good buy and so after taking Totty on a lovely walk through Yatton Park and all the crunchy leaves we went to buy it. He has no excuses now!
Dinner was good and Dr Who Easter special was even better.
I am soo nervous about Heather coming. I will be happy once I know she has checked in and is on her way!!!!!
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