Category Archives: Uncategorized

Patricia and I had managed to book for massage and hot pools for 1045 when the group Whatsapp alerted us to a change of plan. We were off to the glacier at 1030 to take advantage of the break in the weather! We just managed to change our booking and catch the coach. We wentContinue reading “Franz Joseph Monday 3rd February”

We set off from Christchurch at 0830 for the long “scenic drive” to Franz Josef. It didn’t really work out that way: the rain, clouds and mist made it a gloomy trip with few opportunities for photographs. Back in the gloom and rain we drove down the coast through Ross, where some gold is stillContinue reading “Franz Josef Sunday 2nd February”

An early start and 3 hour drive back to Auckland Airport for the short flight to Christchurch in South Island. We found a big drop in temperature and were unprepared in sleeveless tops. The breeze added a bit of windchill. Today was only around 18° here. Apparently it will be 32° tomorrow. Unfortunately we willContinue reading “Christchurch 1st February”

An 8.30am start on a gloriously sunny day after the best breakfast we have had so far. The Government Gardens Whangapipiro the Rachel Pool Next on to Te Puia to experience Maori culture, see geothermal wonders and a Kiwi. (I’ll try to complete this post tomorrow; I’m far too tired tonight. We have breakfast atContinue reading “Rotorua Friday 31st January”

Much of the day was spent on the coach to Rotorua. We passed through pretty Hamilton, but no photos I’m afraid. The last Maori Queen was buried there in 2006. Her son now reigns, with no power. We drove past his residence Turongo House. Maori Evening We enjoyed a Maori buffet meal, then it wasContinue reading “Rotorua Thursday 30th January”

This is our only day in Auckland. It got a bit better, we crossed Auckland Bridge to North Auckland, turned round and came straight back without even a photo stop. We drove up Maritime Drive, the most expensive housing area. Local residents object to tourists admiring their homes so coaches are forbidden to stop. ParnellContinue reading “Auckland Wednesday 29th January”

We have spent Tuesday mostly in the air or airports. Planning an early night now in our comfortable apartment hotel after steak and a drink nearby. No photos I’m afraid: we are exhausted.

Happy birthday Reuben. Sorry I’m a bit late. We had an easy morning, took our time over breakfast then packed up ready to leave for our flights to Sydney and Auckland. In the afternoon we just had a pleasant walk along the Singapore River before going back to the hotel for a 4pm departure. We’veContinue reading “Singapore to Auckland. Monday 27th January”

A morning coach tour, Afternoon Tea at Raffles Hotel and eating out at the Fullerton Bay Hotel this evening. Thian Hock Kong Temple The Botanical Gardens Raffles AFTERNOON TEA Evening out with Philip and Wei Yu, our Liff ex next door neighbours. Instead of the Gin Slings, we have had a delightful evening at theContinue reading “Singapore Sunday 26th January”

We made it, well fed and not too tired. Chinese New Year Singapore is amazing. We’re very tired after 24 hours travelling and have very busy day tomorrow.