Fran's New Zealand Trip

Sat 27th Dec
Stayed at: Plane!
Left home around midday, drove to Mum’s, then to Heathrow. Was 20 mins late for the plane, which fortunately was running an hour and a half late. As I’d checked in online I was allowed to board, but had to race to departure, didn’t get to say goodbye to Mum. Plane took off about 7:30pm, I was sat next to a really nice couple from Essex who were visiting their Daughter in Australia. No Turbulence (just a little bit when we were leaving the UK), Food awful, as ever, however free alcohol was provided, I thought this not a good idea as I think I’d had enough on boxing day. Lost prophets got me from London to Auckland, not sure what I would’ve done without them!

Sun 28th Dec
Stayed at: Plane!
Landed in Hong Kong airport at around 3pm, managed to fall asleep in the departure lounge, god knows how…. Caught plane flu, achy ears, sneezing, sore throat, headache, lovely!! Avoided the dodgy looking food and went straight for Burger King, thought best play it safe with another flight still to go and my dodgy gut!! Wrote postcards to Gran and Grandma (really must post them)! Managed to find a power point so plugged in laptop and got online, chatting about nothing for an hour or so really helped! Boarded plane to Auckland at 9pm, this one was a horrible flight. Really quiet people sat next to me (dear god…), The Blackout helped me survive this flight, not sure what I would’ve done without all that noise, and turbulence pretty much all the way. Got no sleep at all, ate the first meal (vile), but gave the 2nd one a miss as they decided to serve an hour before landing, no thank you very much, I like the contents of my stomach in my stomach!!

Mon 29th Dec
Stayed at: Svend’s parents (Whenuapai, Auckland)
Landed at 13:05, left the airport at 13:45. First thing I do when I get here?? Go to a supermarket and buy alcohol, we all got ID’d and they wouldn’t accept a UK driving licence, great, fortunately my passport was in the car and they agreed to serve the 3 of us based on that. Back to Svend’s (quick stop off to buy a beach towel) and that was about it really. Had dinner with his parents and crashed out about 9.

Tue 30th Dec
Stayed at: Mousetrap (Paihia): Rating 8/10
Weird people we met today: Strange angry deaf guy, really quite scary!!
Really early start today, left Auckland 6:30am to go to Paihia (Bay of Islands). I am of course buzzing, as I’m on UK time, Daz is half dead (him and Svend had been up late telling ghost stories), Svend was not too bad. Stopped at Whangarei for McD’s brekkie, much appreciated, as was the first coffee since I left Hong Kong airport!! Then stopped in Kawakawa to look at the toilets built out of broken tiles and coloured bottles and stuff, interesting, but not as interesting as the train line that runs up the middle of the main street. No barriers or anything, just a caution; beware of trains sign! (on the subject of signs, saw the best two ever on this journey “DRINK AND DRIVE - DIE IN A DITCH”, “DRINK + DRIVE = DEAD AHEAD”, awesome! Straight to the point!) Arrived in Paihia around lunchtime, checked in, then straight to the beach. Had a trek up to the supermarket to buy some food for breakfast. Had the most amazing fish and chips for tea and then went back to the hostel and had a couple of beers on the balcony, I was in bed by 10, still jetlagged, better be OK for NY eve!

Wed 31st Dec
Stayed at: Mousetrap (Paihia): Rating 8/10
Svend very hung-over today, courtesy of the bottle of wine he drank last night. Walked up to where we thought the Treaty of Waitangi had been signed, but later realised we were in completely the wrong place! We did all think there wasn’t much of a fuss about such a huge part of NZ history. Stopped in Supermarket on way back through and bought lunch. Went back to hostel, met Nico and Kate, then back to the beach for a bit I am now extremely sunburnt. I seem to miss a different bit with the sun cream everyday. Not quite sure how I manage it! Back to get ready to go out, then over to the Salty for dinner, I had a seafood pizza which was the subject of much ridicule; it would appear I do like weird food….. Anyway, back to the hostel, started on the drink, loads of other people about: Rhys from Wales, Paul (who lives there) from UK, Kate and Nico, Dara from Ireland, Vinnie and his mate from Derby, Steve and Ben, from somewhere down south of the North island and Kent (in Rhys’ words) the Canadian c**t. Pretty good night in all, went over to the beach house to get stamped so we could go back in after 12, then headed to the beach for the fireworks. Daz attacked a load of random French guys I stayed back out of the way with Svend. Went back to the beach house for a bit, but I was bored and tired so went back to the hostel and uploaded all my pics instead!

Thurs 1st Jan
Stayed at: Mousetrap (Paihia): Rating 8/10
Daz and Svend were both rough as today as 1 of them wandered in at 6, the other at 7; I however was wide awake by 10 and wanting to get on with the day. We spent most of the day lounging around on the beach with Kate and Nico; I finally dragged my ass into the sea and stopped wimping about it being too cold. Spent a little while hanging round the hostel, chatting to the hung-over people (ha-ha). Went for a drive up past Waitangi to Haruru Falls, absolutely stunning waterfall and you’re allowed to stand right on the edge (which of course we all had the irresistible urge to do!) Went back to Paihia and got dinner, I got a grilled fish burger with fried banana this time (see what I mean about the weirdness??) Sat around the hostel all evening, watching the Green Mile (well, I was reading my rough guide trying to decide where we should go after Auckland) and in bed by about 10:30pm.

Fri 2nd Jan
Stayed at: Mousetrap (Paihia): Rating 8/10
Today was another relatively early one. Went on the Cream Trip, which is a trip around the bay going from Island to Island, supposedly spotting dolphins and whales. We saw none, at all. We were meant to be swimming with the dolphins, but this got cancelled as the boat we were on wasn’t authorised to do Dolphin swims. We did however stop on a really nice Island, got to go in the sea and have (yet another) laze on the beach (I’m finally starting to get used to this idea of not having to be busy all the time, and it’s lovely having an empty head, no stress!). We went and saw the Hole in the Rock, which is in the edge of a tectonic plate (weird feeling), and then we came back to Paihia (me feeling quite seasick by this point). Went and bought insect repellent (maybe they’ll stop biting now!!) and went to the supermarket to buy food for tea. I have got to the point where I need to actually cook some food, fed up with takeaway now. Again, had a couple of beers on the balcony, followed by moving to Daz’s friend Mike’s hostel for a few beers. I went home to bed about 10:30, think I’ve got a cold and still can’t shake this jetlag.

Sat 3rd Jan
Stayed at: Kiwi International (Auckland): Rating 2/10
Weird people we met today: Odd bald guy who stays in the kitchen all day, weird!!
Drove back down to Auckland today, got here around 12ish, found our hostel, finally and checked in went out for lunch then on the mission to find a car. Have found a nice one which we are going to view tomorrow. Daz realised half way round Auckland that I had a massive rip in the back of my shorts and my backside was hanging out (classy), so came back, got changed then went to an Internet café to look for cars online. Quite a few about, but going to view this one tomorrow first. Then back to hostel (nowhere near as nice as the last one) for Daz to have a power nap and for me to start my blog (which I have successfully managed)! Will now try to keep everyone posted using this! Have been to the communal area and got a load of leaflets on different hostels (backpackers) and campsites, whilst cooking tea (2 days in a row, wow!) and have filed them in my rough guide next to the places they relate to. Have walked down to the harbour and through Auckland, got some good pics of the sky tower lit up and had the most amazing Turkish Delight flavour ice cream. Opted against going out as we think we’ve done enough of that this week! Managed to post the postcards from Hong Kong today, at long last!!

Sun 4th Jan
Stayed at: Kiwi International (Auckland): Rating 2/10
Woke up really early, had a mission trying to find a spoon to eat breakfast, 1 spoon in a hostel with over 100 rooms….. Went to Takapuna to look at a Toyota Hiace van, got there to realise it could also be known as a shed! Fuel gauge didn’t work, which is not a good thing when there are some places with no petrol stations for 150km! I also noticed a distinct lack of tread on the 2 front tyres….. It drove nicely, but that was about it, and would be cool to have a campervan. Off to an internet café to check to see if I’d been e-mailed back by the couple with the Mitsubishi chariot, which I had and we could see it today. Arranged to see it, and loved it! 7 seater, so loads of space, automatic (I got to test drive this one as Daz has never driven an auto before), loads of gadgets (the seat moves forward electronically, and this is on a 1992 car!) All in all, lovely car, they’re going to get a new WOF put on it tomorrow, and then we’re going to meet them at the Post Office to sort change of ownership out. Done a ton of walking today, feet are killing me, and surprise surprise, more sunburn! Went in a few shops in the city centre, few things I like, but haven’t bought anything yet. Got to go sort out car insurance now, then going to the cinema tonight to watch Madagascar 2. Went to the cinema, Madagascar 2 was brilliant, funnier than the 1st one; however the best thing was it was playing in the IMAX screen (the only IMAX screen in NZ). Absolutely amazing, biggest screen ever, I was beginning to get motion sickness at the start; it felt like the whole cinema was moving!

Mon 5th Jan
Stayed at: Whangarei Falls holiday park and Backpackers: Rating 6/10
Weird people we met today: German bloke, who we think may actually be a woman!!
Checked out of the awful hostel in Auckland at 10. Got a text from Josh and Audrey to say the car was in for its WOF. Went into town, sorted out a bank account and my tax number, then went and bought a hat because I’m sick of getting a sunburnt forehead! Drew out the money, which was a nightmare as stupid UK card wouldn’t let us have more than $700 at once, grrr! Drew out the rest on my Barclaycard as we had to have the car! Left Auckland around 3ish, left the city at 4ish after about an hour of driving around in circles trying to get out! Drove up to Whangarei where we’re staying in a backpackers/campsite next to the falls. Got here around 6.30ish, so although the temptation was to get food and BBQ we got pizza from pizza hut instead, couldn’t hack the wait to cook food. Feet are still killing me, I’m a little concerned about how I’m going to walk around the falls tomorrow am!!

Tue 6th Jan
Stayed at Honeheke Backpackers (Kerikeri): Rating 6/10
Weird people we met today: Odd guy who doesn’t speak and skateboards 10 yards between his room and the kitchen?!?!?
Walked around the falls first thing, took 2 hours, feet are now very sore (had to move back to the flip flops though, trainers hurting far too much, must buy a new pair!), I have some amazing pictures again though, must get them uploaded….. Left Whangarei at around 11:30 and drove to Kerikeri. Drove through Kawakawa and to our delight there was actually a train in the middle of the road this time! Arrived at the backpackers to find no one there, so went into the town. Got Subway for lunch, then had a look around a few shops. Went out to the chocolate factory and fudge factory as there were free samples on offer! Drove back to the Backpackers again and checked in. We’re in a dorm, but there’s only the 2 of us here! Finally got the chance to do some washing, so I have clean underwear woohoo! Went back into town again as we refused to pay 2.5% on our cards, so we needed cash. I went back into the surf shop I visited earlier and spent an obscene amount of money on a black t-shirt and a pair of denim shorts (very short shorts, but oh so comfy!!) Went to the supermarket and bought sensible food for tea. BBQ steak and sausage with salad and potatoes, finally we’re beginning to eat sensibly. I also bought some fruit and fruit juice (white peaches, best thing ever!) Back to the Backpackers again (oh, it’s great having the car…) for tea, a few beers and then off to the TV room to watch Pirates of the Caribbean, (Tried to find work too, but no joy so far).

Wed 7th Jan
Stayed at Honeheke Backpackers (Kerikeri): Rating 6/10
Bit of a late start today and the attitude was sod it, let’s go to the beach! I rang Mum (who wasn’t there), then Gran, then Mum again. Cost me 60c for all 3 phone calls, it’s cheaper to phone them from here than it is from home! Then we drove to Matauri Bay, rather then back to Paihia, which was the original idea. Drove miles to get there and finally went around a corner to the most stunning view ever! Then drove a bit further down the hill and the view got even better. Absolutely amazing and we have the photographic evidence to prove it. Spent about 3 hours on the beach (this is the best bit, I discovered a flask in the back of the car, subsequently bought pot noodles to take to the beach and my god it worked, that saved some cash…) Left the beach at 2:30ish to go get an ice cream, I have found the most amazing range of ice cream called meltdown, they’re brilliant! Went and fuelled the C Bomb (that’s the cars name, there is a story to it, but it’s a long one) so we could do the tourist drive, and thank god we did. We ran out of words for wow, the scenery was absolutely amazing. Drove to Taupo Bay, Tauranga Bay and on to Whangaroa Harbour where the trees and sea just meet. We decided the only thing that would’ve improved the view would be if the next beach was full of surfers in Speedos! (Which, might I add, it wasn’t, sigh). Drove back down the no 10 Highway (like a motorway, except motorways here only have 1 lane, and the occasional passing place) and back to the backpackers, as by this point my sunburn had set in and I think my ass was actually on fire, for a cold shower and after sun. Went into town to the supermarket, decided on stir fry for tea tonight (I’m doing well at this cooking thing now) and then back to laze about at the backpackers. Decided it was a good idea to play Badminton for a bit, as other than my brief swim I’ve had no exercise today, but as usual haven’t stopped eating. I am now lying in bed in absolute agony with the worst sunburn I have ever had, I actually ache it’s so bad, starting to feel sick too, which is not a good sign as we’re travelling again tomorrow….. (Oh, another one of those signs today, poison land, dogs will be shot!) Also, I have decided I really do not like ******, they are rude and ignorant. You try to help them when then can’t figure out how to use a cooker (well, Daz did) and they pretend they can’t speak English although blatantly they can!

Thu 8th Jan
Stayed at: Endless Summer Lodge (Ahipara) : Rating 9/10
Left Kerikeri and went on the hunt firstly for food for me (far too long since I’ve had a McD’s Breakfast!!) and then for an FM transmitter so we could get some tunes in the car! Also decided we needed a chilly bin (cool box) and a plastic box as we seem to be acquiring groceries all over the car and the desperately need tidying up! Stopped in the next town to get these. Finally music in the car, so I picked, matchbox 20, followed by My Chemical (far too long without them) then an old skater rock album, much better than the rubbish we’d been listening to! Started the drive to Ahipara, stopped in a couple of places on the way to take some pics as we took the coastal route. Got to the Backpackers around lunchtime, hotdogs on the beach, so lunch was obvious! Drove back to Kaitaia (14k) as they were charging 2.5% for Credit Card payments, so went to draw cash, and this was the nearest cash point. Did a bit of shopping too, got enough stuff for tea both days, far too organised! Got back to Ahipara and Daz went for a swim, I stayed reading my book, under a tree in the shade, I still hurt far too much to be in the sun, blisters on my back are definitely not a good sign….. Back at the Backpackers for a bit, then decided we needed to have a walk up and down the beach. Not much going on and suddenly realised it was food o’clock, so had to go back to eat! (There are 3 times over here, food o’clock, vodka o’clock and sleep o’clock, as there is nothing else that matters). Met a load of people at the hostel, really nice couple from Germany who are biking around the Northland for 3 months, also 2 people from Sweden and a guy from Denmark, who we stayed up chatting to until 11.30. Stayed in a dorm tonight, which is not so good, meant I had to be quiet when I went to bed and I have to be quiet in the am, not an easy task for me, especially as I have all my stuff rammed in my backpack and god knows where my wash bag is!!

Fri 9th Jan
Stayed at: Endless Summer Lodge (Ahipara): Rating 9/10
Weird people we met today: Obsessive American lady who took literally thousands of pictures, really, really annoying….
The ***** disliking continues, they really are rude…… Went on a trip to 90 mile beach today. Managed to get up relatively quietly, before my alarm went off, and don’t think I woke the others. However, I then had to spend ages in the shower room as I couldn’t do anything in my room! Had breakfast with some of the guys we were chatting to last night as they were doing the same trip today, so were up early also. Left the backpackers at 8:45 (by the way, this backpackers is stunning, lovely outside decked area, hammocks, herb garden, gorgeous bathrooms, wooden floors, oh, and across the road from an absolutely stunning beach). Drove up the Highway stopped at the Gum diggers place and had a tour, learnt about Kauri trees and the gum they give off, then the bus broke down and we had to get on a different one, which was kind enough to stop. Seems to be a bit of a pattern emerging, first the boat then the bus….. Then we went up to Cape Reinga, most northern point in NZ. Got a nice picture of me with my eyes shut and Daz’s hair looking mental under the sign that says how far away from London we are, just to prove the point! Took lots of pictures, because it’s also the place where the Tasman Ocean meets the Pacific, which is really weird to look at. Then we went to the sand dunes and boarded down them, I went once, Daz did it 3 times! No way was I going to climb up again! Really good fun though, would’ve done it again if it wasn’t for the climb. Both absolutely covered in sand! Then we went onto the drive along 90 mile beach, had a beach stop and caught pipi’s in the sea (shellfish) I ate one, couldn’t resist as I do like my weird food! I fell asleep on the bus, the driver talked continuously all the way…… Although he was very good and did know his stuff. Stopped at the Kauri museum and bought yet more postcards (I still haven’t written the ones from Auckland yet, really need to get a move on). Finally found a present for Julie as well, so need to get to a Post Office to get that sent home! Back to the backpackers and showered, straight away! Couldn’t cope with the sand (oh, or the burning as it still hasn’t gone). Then tea, book a backpackers for tomorrow and catch up on the blog (oh and now to write the postcards……) Also met a mental kid today. Milo, 9 years old (although telling everyone he’s 10), so hyper and really chatty. His Mum and Dad are from the UK and emigrated about 3 years ago, his Mum did warn us that he was extremely chatty, oh and he was. Very funny though, made an interesting remark that the Queen should be assassinated because she’s too old at 600!!

Sat 10th Jan
Stayed at: Sunkist International Backpackers (Thames): Rating 7/10
Weird people we saw today: Really odd Maori lady, dressed all in black at the bus stop at 8:30am, we thought we’d seen death, not a good omen before a 10 hour car drive!!
Left our Backpackers at 8:30 ready for the massive drive to Thames. Got fuel in Kaitaia before doing anything else. I’ve developed yet another cold sore, no; hang in its sodding impetigo! Great, that means a hefty bill as I’ll have to go to the Dr!! Sun burn finally fading, thank god! Not much happened today, lots of driving went to the Kauri tree in a forest on the west coast, stopped at Hokianga harbour (after crossing on the ferry) and took a few pics and that was about it really. Got stuck in Auckland as there was a big accident and the main highway was closed (this one had 2 lanes too!!) Stopped in Dargaville on the hunt for a pharmacy, no luck, however we did find a sabotaged Blockbuster (much to my amusement, what a photo opportunity!) Managed to post the postcards from a petrol station. Let’s see how long it takes them to get to the UK. Found a pharmacy eventually and got zovirax, better than nothing, but something tells me it’s not going to work! Anyway, got to Thames at about 6:30pm, checked in then KFC. Why they serve bread rolls and mash with gravy with the chicken is beyond me, but it was cheap and there were 3 pieces of chicken! Decided to go to the town centre in hunt of a bar as it is Saturday night, cue the tumbleweed!! Quiet? I can think of other words for it, dead being one of them. Had 1 drink then headed back to the hostel, which we walked in completely the wrong direction and ended up at the wrong end of the road, oh well, burnt off the KFC I suppose.

Sun 11th Jan
Stayed at: Coromandel Town Backpackers: Rating 7/10 (no bloody spoons, again!)
Arrived at our destination relatively early, after a McD’s breakfast (no egg, think I need to take it easy on them for a few days, it would appear I have overdosed!) and a whole load more windy roads! I’m going to have muscles of steel in my arms after all these corners; they’re starting to make me dizzy! Had a look around the town as we couldn’t check in until 2. Not much here, but busier than Thames! Checked in and asked the Manager about Drs (to sort out my sodding impetigo), she works at the Drs and had ½ a tube on antibiotic cream, that saved me $50! I went for a walk into town, whilst Daz did some stuff online, took my MP3 with me and ended up at the coast, was out for about an hour. Was only meant to be out to buy vodka! Drove up the west coast a bit, not much to see, so we drove straight back again. Went into town to get takeaway fro tea as we couldn’t be bothered to do anything at the backpackers (was more of a campsite really). Got snapper and chips, fish and chips are different here, but better. You can tell the fish hasn’t been frozen. Oh, I had a battered mussel as well, absolutely gorgeous! Went for a walk along the Kauri trail (more hills and steps, for a change!) and that was about it really, ventured back into town at around 10:30 to see if there was anything going on at the bars, and there wasn’t, everywhere was shut!

Mon 12th Jan
Stayed at Coromandel Town Backpackers: Rating 7/10
No early start today, yay! Went online and was chatting to Bev, Darren and Rich for about an hour) till the battery ran out on the laptop), called Mum this am as well. Managed to find a post office that was open and posted the presents we bought for people. Went to Driving Creek Railway (which is a must do thing in Coromandel), bottle walls, preservation and stunning views about sums it up. Think I should start a bottle wall, Daz reckons if I get Tom and Barney on board it’ll go up in no time at all between the 3 of us! Went to a beach, briefly. I stayed in the shade for most of it as I don’t want the sunburn getting any worse. Daz went to the Drs to try to sort out his ear infection and I had a trip to the organic shop and bought a load of salad for tea. I also bought yogurt, this is how we found out there was a world spoon shortage, again!! Daz was not happy; the Dr prescribed Sudafed and charged him $50 for the privilege. Thank god I didn’t go for the impetigo, probably would’ve ended up with Zovirax. I got myself on Plenty Of Fish New Zealand yesterday, see if we can find some men in Tauranga before we get there as it is becoming more and more apparent there is a countrywide shortage of ‘hotties’ also! Again nothing going on in the evening in town, really can’t believe how quiet this country is in the middle of the summer!!

Tue 13th Jan
Stayed at The Cats Pyjamas (Whitianga): Rating 7/10
Left Coromandel quite early (around 10) and went to New Chums Bay on the way to Whitianga. Massive walk along the beach, which involved a whole load of rocks. I managed to get there Ok after a whole load of moaning, didn’t go in the water as didn’t want to travel with wet shorts all the way to Whitianga (and hadn’t thought to pack underwear…) Absolutely stunning beach, spent an hour or so laying about on the beach, just for a change… Started the trek back to the car as we were both starting to get hungry (despite the fact I’d eaten 2 packets of crisps buy this point, I’ve really got to stop eating so much, I don’t ever seem to stop!) Everything was going fine until we got to the damn rocks. I was doing really well, at least halfway, then stood on one that moved, stepped over it and managed to fall over backwards, landing in what I thought was a rock pool. Noticed I’d cut my wrist, wouldn’t look at my ankle because I knew it was bleeding. Worst part of this was… hardly any people about, all the way there, or back, at the point I decide to go ass over tit, 4 people watching, brilliant! Daz is gutted he didn’t get in on camera, he was more concerned that I’d hurt myself. I now have a lovely bruise coming out on my back and a graze on my ankle, there was no rock pool though, so no wet ass at least! Especially after not going in the sea cos I didn't want to be wet! Had our sandwiches at the car (getting far better at making food in the morning now), then drove to Whitianga. Got there before 2.30, so went into the town and had a look round the surf shops. Found a pair of pink converse, but managed to resist, I do need a new pair of shoes though, and flip flops, and a bag, and sunglasses, and a pair of boardies as well…… Checked in around 2:30ish then went to Hot Water Beach. This was amazing. Daz dug a hole in the sand, while I found somewhere to put our stuff and attached the car key to my bikini (very inventive!) It was really weird; we were sat in a boiling hot pool of water, in cloudy weather. The water was between 60 and 64 degrees, so hot I managed to burn my feet (2nd incident today…) and it took my nail varnish off my toes! Had to go in the sea to get rid of the sand and to cool down (god, it’s such a hard life, imagine it, having to be on the beach and in the sea, I almost feel sorry for myself…) Then managed to sneakily get changed in the middle of a crowded beach! Sunburn has started to go now, I have a tan, for the first time ever, it’s not a very dark tan, but it is there! Went back to Whitianga and went to a pub for tea, steak, eggs and chips for $10, brilliant! Also had a Tui beer, really good, think I could get used to it, although I am missing Coors light, fosters, pear cider and VK (god, I really do have issues don’t I?) Went back to the hostel but got bored, so went for a walk around the harbour. Went back to the hostel, watched the 2nd Pirates of the Caribbean then went to bed early.

Wed 14th Jan
Stayed at Whangamata Backpackers Hostel: Rating 5/10
Before I start about today, I need to write a bit about last night. Firstly, we were in a 6 bed dorm, me being the only girl. That was fine, Daz tells me there was a lot of noise, and I didn’t hear any of it. However, there was an incident. I woke up in the middle of the night and thought what on earth is that in my bed? It was a bloody cat! I tried to turf it out, not wanting my allergy to kick off and got scratched, so thought I seem to be Ok, let’s leave it where it is. Woke up a bit later on and it had cuddled up to me and I was boiling hot, so it had to go. I woke it up and fortunately this time it jumped out the window (ground floor, I wouldn’t let it jump otherwise). A bit later on I woke up again; this time because the rain was hammering down, this happened about 3 times in the night. I don’t think I’ve ever heard rain so heavy. Left Whitianga and drove to Hahei, from here we got the park and ride to Cathedral Cove. This involved another coastal walk, about 45 minutes from the car park. Lots of hills and steps, however, no rocks this time! I got so hot on the way down I thought I was going to pass out. Got to the Cove and it was worth it, absolutely stunning. Didn’t take swim gear or a towel, which was a shame because the water was lovely. Walked back up to the car park and then drove to Whangamata. Loads of surf shops again, don’t think it’ll be long before I have to get something else…. Checked in to the backpackers, and then went to the beach. Tried to go to the sea, but nearly lost my bikini bottoms, so gave up. Spent a few hours in the sun but left the beach as a massive black cloud was looming. No sunburn as yet, which is good. Massive black cloud turned into a thunderstorm that went on for about 3 hours, really heavy rain and spent ages watching the lightening out of the patio doors at the hostel.

Thurs 15th Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Drove from Whangamata to Tauranga today, boiling hot again. Got here around 11ish. Checked in then went into the city on the hunt for work. No joy. Walked around all day (and it’s a lot further than we thought it was too, should’ve taken the car). Didn’t find any of the agencies we’d been told about. Came back to the hostel to get the car to go and do a shop at the supermarket. That was about it today, sat around with some of the other guys that are staying here (2 Scottish, 2 Irish and 2 British), walked half way around the estuary and that was about it. Oh, one more thing, about 8.30ish this evening we got offered jobs pruning kiwi trees, so all is good and has turned out OK (after the massive trek around town…….)

Fri 16th Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Started working today, was up at 6am to go to work, not sure I like that idea too much. If I wanted to be up at daybreak every day I would’ve stayed at home, got a lot more money for the privilege of getting up that early there!! Absolutely boring job, got to lunch time OK and started to fade after that, it was so uninteresting I just felt tired, and I’d had an early one last night, only 1 beer!! Left for work at about 6:50am, got home at 4:45pm, ridiculously long day. Have been asked if we want to work tomorrow, but have declined. If I wanted to work Saturday’s, I would’ve stayed in the UK! Had the rest of the beer tonight, 5 bottles and after not drinking for so long, felt quite merry on it. Went to bed at around 11ish as everyone was tired (even the Scottish girls, Jackie and Kathleen, who were originally planning to go out).

Sat 17th Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Got up relatively early considering we weren’t working. Had breakfast, mooched about for a bit then decided to head to the beach at Mount Maunganui. Had a look for the Bayfair shopping centre on the way but couldn’t find it so headed for the town. There was an international volleyball tournament on the beach, with lots of lovely guys in shorts and no tee shirts, so stayed here for a while… I made a comment along the lines of “if we’d done our research properly, we’d be staying here tonight.” We then headed to the beach at the quieter end. Quite possibly this is the hottest day so far, not sure of exact temperatures, but it was so hot we couldn’t walk on the beach. Burnt our feet and both ended up virtually throwing ourselves at the floor because we couldn’t bear to stand up. I managed an hour on the beach at which point I had to leave because the heat was making me feel sick. Headed into town and finally had a roast lamb subway for lunch (been wanting one of these ever since Svend told me they existed over here). Had a look around yet more surf shops, but managed not to spend any money. I’ve done really well on the spending thing this week, spent hardly anything at all, which is good. Drove back to the hostel and decided that Daz, Rob and I were going to have a BBQ for tea, burgers, sausages and prawns, brilliant. Decided we were going out tonight (first night properly on the piss since NY eve), so hit the vodka (I still have the bottle of wine, but didn’t fancy it, wanted beer, but I drank all of it yesterday). Vodka and L & P is an amazing drink, found another thing to miss when I come home, funny how it relates to alcohol, don’t you think?? Anyway, drank at the hostel until 10:30, and then waited for the Germans and Argentineans to get changed. I found it highly amusing how they kept calling us the English. Walked into town, despite mine and Tomas’ protest that we actually needed a taxi. I was chatting to Tomas most of the way to town, he managed to drink the best part of a litre of Whiskey on his way to the city centre (subsequently resulting in him getting thrown out of every pub we were in for being too pissed). Patro (pronounced ‘Pado’) and Pedro (the Argentineans) directed us to the pub. We tried to go into The Cornerstone, which we’d been told was quite good, but ended up in Coyote, which was like Rafters, just in another country!! I started on the beer in town, probably not my wisest idea, then went decided I needed to chat to every person (by person I mean male) in the pub. Amusing to watch I’m sure…. I attracted an Argentinean footballer, whose name I have no idea, and was dancing with him for a bit, but got bored very quickly. Far too short. I’ve now decided I’m off men and will go out, get drunk and have a bit of a boogie, that’s it. It’s far more fun! Short of it is, everyone else left early, (Rob ran out of money, Pado got thrown out for being too pissed and Tomas got thrown out for the same reason, which meant Reno and Pedro left with them) and Daz and I wandered in at 3:35am. All in all a good night out. I did get a bit pissed off with the whistling and shouting from cars whilst walking home though, you don’t get that in the UK and I really don’t like it.

Sun 18th Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Some how, god only knows how, I was up at 8:30am, hangover free as always. I don’t know what is wrong with me! I went straight online to try to sort out my UCAS application (I’ve decided it’s likely I’m going to go home in June and go back to studying in September, if I stay until December I won’t do it next year, I know what I’m like). However, I ended up on Facebook as always and replied to the 10 messages I had received via photo comments, wall, or e-mail. That took 3 hours; I then checked my e-mail (another 30 minutes responding to people) and then plenty of fish (again, 30 minutes responding to people). I now have 3 people who want to be my friend and live locally, yay!! Anyway, by this point Daz was up, so I decided to let him get some internet time and motivated myself to get showered and dressed (having developed a slight problem with dehydration, hangover perhaps…) Got some lunch then went out to find the shopping centre as I’d asked Jackie and Kathleen where it was. Loads of jobs available part time, so I’ve decided not to do the kiwi pruning and to try to get some part time work. I don’t need to work full time, especially if I’m going home in June and the more I think about it I’m not happy getting up that early 6 days a week. I would’ve stayed at home if I wanted that. Back to the hostel, powernap, tea and a relatively early night. Everyone was drinking; I opted against it, courtesy of my hangover… Daz got told quite late tonight that they don’t need him to work tomorrow or Tuesday. He’s a little bit annoyed because we’re not sure why. He’s been told it’s to do with training and that because we were the last 2 to start we had to wait as everyone else had to be trained first, bit weird we’re thinking.

Mon 19th Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
It’s just occurred to me we haven’t seen or met any weird people for absolutely ages. Oh well, I suppose that’s a good thing. We’ve found a place with a beach, work and nightlife and no weird people, well yet. Got up really late and went into the city to get my CV printed off so I could apply for the jobs I found at Bayfair yesterday. Went to the I-Site as well and booked white water rafting for Sunday, as it’s been over a week since we’ve done anything like that. Walked back to the car (we drove in this time) and back to the hostel for lunch. Jackson and Jill were about, so we had some company, they decided to come with us to Bayfair as despite the fact it was Jill’s birthday they needed to do grocery shopping. I dropped my CV into at least 6 shops that are currently looking for staff and have another 3 to apply online for, which I shall be doing on Wednesday, along with replying to more e-mail as by the looks of my yahoo inbox I’m popular at the moment (didn’t have time to do it today, was only there to get my CV sorted). Had another ice cream sundae from Wendy’s in Bayfair, and then headed back to the hostel. I’ve mapped our route to the bottom of the North Island, covering everywhere we want to go, may amend it in the week though, as I intend to read a bit more of my rough guide to see if there’s anything else we want to see. Had tea outside again, as the weather, although being sketchy this morning seems to have turned out OK. Went to Mount Maunganui this evening with Daz and Jules and climbed to the top. It near enough killed me, but was worth it for the view. Came back to the hostel, everyone’s drinking, but I abstained again as I don’t want to get back into that habit again. I’ve cut down so much since coming away and I want to keep it like that, I feel so much better for it. Oh, finally text the bloke that e-mailed me, no response yet though, so we’ll have to wait and see.

Tues 20th January
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Have had loads of texts, full on conversation going on. Really weird receiving a text in Kiwi speak though, as in “cool as” and “ay” at the end of everything… had a call from one of the shops I dropped a CV into, they want me to go in for an interview tomorrow. Decided to drive to Whakatane today. There’s a live Volcano, we would have done the tour, but it was far too expensive, however, apparently you can see it from the shore. Maybe on a clear day, we couldn’t see it today at all. Had a massive walk to find a McDonalds as we haven’t eaten ‘dirty’ food for a while then a quick look around the town and back to Tauranga as there really wasn’t that much there. Got back to the hostel and got told about a cleaning job at a motel in the city so called up and found out about that. Called CS2 today about my car crash, apparently they left me a message on 29th (despite the fact I told them I left on 27th!) God knows what it said. Anyway, I’ve given them Mum’s details, as although she’s a nightmare to get hold of, it’s got to be easier than contacting me right now. I did call Mum to tell her as well, I think she was a bit shocked to hear from me when she was at work! Drank pretty much a whole bottle of wine tonight, whilst having a lovely girly chat with Jules, I’m going to feel rough tomorrow!!

Weds 21st Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Daz has gone to work, and I got up late. Had loads to do today though. Firstly, job interview at 12:30. Got to Bayfair really early, so digressed across the road to Dick Smith’s and bought a speaker for my MP3, as I left my dock at home, it’s wicked, about the size of a cream egg and is charged on USB! Noticed the Meat Market and Fruit and Veg Market were quite reasonable, so popped back over after my interview to buy tea (Sausage, Mash, Gravy and cabbage, we thought it was about time we had some proper British food, not pasta, or noodles!) Anyway, the interview, was more of a chat really, I have to go back tomorrow for a trial, where I’ll have a target and stuff, so we’ll see how that goes. Went into town next and took the car to the garage about the dodgy noise, and was soon regretting it. Brakes are f**ked. Nothing on the pads, so metal is rubbing against metal, not good. He’s told me they’ll reform the disks if they can, but it may need new ones, great! I was also advised not to drive the car, so had to leave there and walk to the motel about the cleaning job. Think I forgot to mention I called them last night and they called back this morning asking me to go for a chat (you can tell how interested I am, can’t you??) Anyway, traipsed across from the garage, with a load of crap from the car, as I was intending on going to the mount, found it eventually after walking past it despite the fact it’s a massive red building! They seemed like nice people, very particular about cleanliness and wanted someone to commit to 2 months, which for a cleaning job I don’t think I’m prepared to do. After this I started the trek back to the hostel, thank god I’d dropped the shopping back there earlier! Got back at 3:45 and felt really tired. Went swimming in the river when Daz, Jill and Jack got back from work, was really good. Discovered there is what Jackson terms as a “**** shop” at the top of our road, which is handy to know when I’m here and bored and don’t fancy driving about. Also discovered Goody Goody Gum Drops ice cream, bloody lovely! didn’t do a great deal tonight, sat around chatting with Rob, Jack and Jill, then bed, not sure where Jules was this evening, not seen her all day.

Thurs 22nd Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Well, today was all about my trial right from the start really. Called Claire and Darren this morning, when I could finally get to the phone. Was really nice to catch up with some people. Got a call from the motel, think they were going to offer me the cleaning job, but I turned it down. I decided I definitely don’t want to commit to 2 months doing that. Got myself sorted eventually and left here at about 11:30, got into town and bought myself a bag for the beach and carrying all the crap I seem to drag everywhere (drink, laptop, MP3, book, beach towel, you name it, it seems to come with me), then caught the bus to Bayfair. Got there at about 12:45, so went and bought the UK newspaper (that comes out on a Thurs), and went and read it whilst eating lunch at Burgerfuel. Burgerfuel is the most amazing takeaway burger, expensive, but worth it! Found out the car was ready and text Daz telling him to go get it after work. Started work at 2pm. Had my target set and thought there’s no way I’ll hit it, because it was so quiet. Anyway, I hit it, god knows how, but I did and got offered the job. I’ve got a whole load of forms to fill in and drop in tomorrow and I should be able to start next week, and I get paid for today! Daz picked me up just after 6, then home tea, quick chat with Jack, Jill, Rob and Jules then in to write my blog. (Oh, it was rent day today, so whilst paying my rent I also had a moan about the amount of people from other houses using our kitchen, it’s getting really annoying! Apparently my job tomorrow is to go steal our pots, pans and utensils back from the other house,…..)

Fri 23rd Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Got up relatively early and got my forms filled out. Went into town to use the net, chatting to Trev, Val, Neil and Darren online but had to stop because I needed to check e-mail and things too. Bought Jackson a new fly swat, because he broke the other one. Had a few texts from Jill today, she really can’t hack the kiwi work either, I’m kind of pleased it’s not just me. Went over to Bayfair and dropped in my forms, then managed to digress into a shoe shop and bought 2 pairs of sandals. That’s 4 pairs of shoes this week, I think I need to stop now! I also ventured into farmers and bought a black skirt for work, for $40, which I thought was quite reasonable. I also got some spiral things for my ears. I’m trying to make the holes bigger so I can buy the black diamante flesh tunnels I’ve seen that I like. Was going to head to the beach but by the time I got back it was a bit too late, so waited for everyone to get home. Daz and Jackson went for a swim, but I stayed back with Jill. Had Burgerfuel for tea (oh, had a McD’s for lunch too…) Then had to go to Pak n Save and do the shopping. Had a few drinks at the hostel tonight, I ended up going for a walk along the river to chat with Jill and didn’t get to bed until 2am. Daz has decided I'm getting messages from a serial killer. He got really funny with me on Thurs, saying I’d probably be too busy to meet him which I was, so I text today saying I was free all day, so when’s good for him. He replied with bad timing as he can’t go anywhere as he’s just sold his car. Think we’ll stop talking to this one then…..

Sat 24th Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Today was rather eventless. It involved a trip to the tattoo show, which didn’t start until 2pm (we got there at 12) and then off to the beach with Daz, Jules, Jill and Jackson. I spent a fair bit of time in the sea, may as well get used to it, as I am going to learn to surf next week. Burnt my legs, which is a first as they haven’t caught the sun at all since I’ve been here. Maybe they’ll tan now. We had a massive BBQ for tea, Me, Daz, Jill, Rob, Marcel, Juha, Evan, Maria, Jules, Jamie, Nick and Linzi. Patro, Pedro and Nico appeared from somewhere later on too. Jill and I finished our drinks and headed to town, the boys followed later, as did Jules and Jamie. We met up with them all in the end. Went to Cornerstone, Crown and Badger, Coyote De Biere Haus and then back to Crown and Badger. I met a guy in Crown and Badger, he was chatting to me for ages, bought us both a drink, and was waving his phone about manically, but I didn’t think to ask if he wanted my number d’oh! He was a really nice guy too. Jill and I got home at 3am.

Sun 25th Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Today was white water rafting day. I had to be up at 8am, and was, with a raging hangover. I had my 2 bits of toast and a coffee and within an hour was fine, although slightly dehydrated. White water rafting was brilliant. I only had one issue. We were allowed to swim part of the course which was grade 2 rapids. I managed to hit my backside on a rock, inhale a load of water, choke on it every time I tried to breathe again and had to be pulled back into the boat, resulting in a massive bruise on my arm. Great. Other than that it was a really good morning, even though ever so slightly frightening, particularly when we saw the pictures…. Went to the beach with Marcel this afternoon. Went to papamoa which is the next town along from Mount Maunganui. Really lovely beach and far quieter than the mount. Spent part of the afternoon teaching Marcel new English words, which was fun. Had a trip to Warehouse as well and bought my first Cadbury’s cream egg of the year. They’re not the same, Jamie tells me it’s because they put something in them to stop them from melting. Went online for ages today. Caught up with everyone on Facebook, just for a change, few more e-mails on POF, so responded to these also, one guy without a photo, found out why, tattoos and piercing, oh well… Went to bed relatively early and that’s all really.

Mon 26th Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Got up quite late and had the intention of doing nothing today. Walked into the city with Jill in the end, with the intention of getting a drink in a pub, but ended up with subway! Managed not to buy anything else and walked back to the hostel. Had a quick trip to pak n save (which has become a standing joke, going to pak n save is the highlight of the day, particularly on a work day!) and then munched my way through a nice healthy dinner. Another quick look online, messaged back another couple of guys, Daz is losing track with what I’m doing with whom hehe! This evening was eventful, Marcel tried to teach me to play poker, very interesting. I got there in the end. I said I was going to learn new things whilst I was here and I now have, Yay! I got a call about the cleaning job again today, they’re prepared to offer it to me on a month contract rather than 2. I was meant to call them back by the end of today, but forgot.

Tues 27th Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Worked this morning. Only until 12. Got fuel for the car, which went up 6c a matter of hours after I did so, so I was rather impressed! Went into town this afternoon, tried again to sort out my tax return (rang them again yesterday, I’m getting nowhere with it). I’ve e-mailed them to find out what’s going on and to get a new access code, I just hope it gets here in time. I found a beached as bro t-shirt and just had to have it and also bought a baby grow for Mike and Beth’s little one and posted it, Let’s see how long this one takes! Then I met up with a guy I’ve been chatting to online, really nice guy and not at all what I expected, really young though…. We’ll see. He hasn’t text me as yet, but I did say I’d contact him as I’m not up to much this week. Didn’t get up to much this evening, just chilled out back at the hostel. Also I called back about the job again today, but because I didn’t call back yesterday they’d given it to someone else. I had started to change my mind about it as I’ve only got 10 hours at Tarocash this week and next week, which isn’t enough. I don’t want to work full time, but I do want to save some money!

Weds 28th Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Got up relatively early and called Gran, then Julie, then Mum. Bit sad to hear Julie isn’t seeing Peter anymore. I hope she’s OK, there’s not much I can do from over here though, I’ll have to send her a nice present when I finally start earning some proper money! Went into town this am to try to sort out my tax return (again, I’m getting really bored of it now). Booked to get my hair done next Thursday, can’t wait, it’s far too light and is growing out of control! Went to the UK shop and spent an obscene amount of money on a pack of revels, but then, a craving’s a craving! Walked back to Hostel and went to work at 3. I’m learning to close the store, as that’s what I’ll be doing predominantly. Hit my target today, which was good after yesterday’s useless attempt. Got a text this afternoon and then got a stroppy one later on because I’d ignored it. He was asking me to meet him in a pub and I didn’t reply, so I sent a cocky reply then! He kept texting all night, determined to meet up, but I was on the phone trying to sort out my tax return, with no joy. I told him I was free on Friday, but got no response, so we’ll see.

Thurs 29th Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
I rang Darren first thing this am to let him know about the tax return and oddly enough, Bev turned up at the house whilst I was on the phone, so had a chat with her too. Went into the city to the library to go online to re-register for my tax return (this is really starting to get boring now), got that done so did the usual. Tons of mail on plenty of fish, so responded. Am now getting texts from two and e-mails from three. At least it keeps me entertained during the week. Drove to Waihi, with the intention of going to the beach, but ended up going into the town as it was really cloudy. After doing pretty much everything in the town and getting lunch (absolutely lovely marshmallow cake, low in fat too!) we drove back to Tauranga and went over to the beach at the Mount as by this time the sun had come out. I got severely sunburnt on my face, neck and legs, hopefully my legs will finally tan…. Went for a walk along the river this evening, really nice view out towards the mount and some stunning houses. Got back and decided it was time I started playing Viva Piñata on my DS, I’m going to get right into it I think!

Fri 30th Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Got up quite late this morning and decided to go for a run along the river. Was out for about an hour. Got back and had a chat with Patrick about anything and everything for about an hour, at which point I thought I really need to get showered and dressed and get Rob’s battery for him! I went out and got the battery for Rob’s van (as promised last night) and then went and got some food for tea (we’re meant to do the food shop today, but can’t as I have to work 7-9). I spent most of the afternoon outside in the sun (although covered up courtesy of yesterdays sunburn), but had to go in as it was too hot, so went online and managed to chat to Rafe and Mcavity online, very odd. Sent a few more messages on plenty of Fish as well. Played on Viva Piñata for a bit then went to work after dinner. Picked up Evan and Maria on my way back through, as she was working until 9 and he’d gone down to use the internet. It would appear town is just as busy on a Friday night as a Saturday, the pubs were really busy.

Sat 31st Jan
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Got up this morning feeling rough as I don’t know what. I had a headache, was dizzy, felt sick and had stomach pains. Not in a good way. Had a chat with Jules and Jill and we decided to go into town for a glass of wine (despite the fact I have work later!) Jill and I went to the internet café, I sent a load more e-mails on Plenty of Fish, (I really think I need to start asking guys what they are looking for on there, as it’s all well and good sending e-mails, but I could really do with meeting some people). Had a quick look at jobs as well, but nothing stood out. We then ventured into town and I bought a really nice dress in Supre for $13. We met up with Jules again and went down to the strand for something to eat (and drink obviously), Rob managed to appear, which is odd as he does that at the hostel when food is around as well. Walked back to the car (I drove in as need to be back in time to go to work), found a job to apply for at a clothes shop at the top of town, full time, Tues to Sat, I spoke to the Manager and he told me to drop a CV in on Monday, so I think I shall, as those hours would be ideal. Still feeling ill at this point I spent 20 minutes lying about on the sofa until Jules came to find me to get a lift to the beach. I went to work, over achieved my target (lovely and busy for a change) then back to the hostel to pick up Daz and go do the shopping. Back to the hostel for a BBQ, during which I managed to get tomato sauce all over my work skirt, then the mad rush to get ready to go out. Managed it, wore my new dress, had to really, shows my tan off lovely. Problem was, it was 9:50pm by this time and hostel kick out time is 10:30pm, which meant me necking a bottle of wine in 40 minutes = hammered! Walked into town with Daz, Jules, Rob, Mark, David and Isa. I spent the walk into town chatting to David, who’s French. His English was OK, but I kept bursting into French when he couldn’t understand my English, which was odd, I was that hammered and could still manage to speak a little French… Anyway went to pubs, very uneventful. Left town about 1:30am and got in at 2, despite me whining again that I wanted to get a taxi (I blame Trev for my laziness and not wanting to walk home from the pub anymore!)

Sun 1st Feb
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Absolutely manic day today. Daz’s alarm went off at 8am, no hang over as I’d been sensible and started drinking water when I went out, far too drunk to be having any more alcohol! Got ready and left the hostel just after 9, would’ve been earlier, but we were waiting for Jill and Jackson’s washing to finish. Drove to Rotorua today, first stop was at the hot pools. They are really odd. Bubbling mud holes in the ground, some areas are like ponds with steam pouring from them. Horrible smell in the area, sulphur, really bad. Walked into the city and got some lunch. Took some fairly amusing pictures, one particular one of a Maori carving…. Went to the I-site to decide what to do in the area and Jackson and I both found the same leaflet about paradise springs, which is a wildlife reserve, where they have farm animals and lions. Lion feeding was at 2:30pm, so we decided we needed to be there for that. Walked around the park, it was a really nice place, got loads of pics, then went off to do luging. I’d never done this before and was wearing a skirt so wasn’t too sure. We had to get Gondolas up to the track, Jackson doesn’t like them at all, but got in and got on with it, I decided I was going on, so did. Did the scenic track first, really hurt my hands controlling the damn thing (it’s kind of like a toboggan on concrete, if you’re not sure what I mean), then thought I may as well try the intermediate, but there’s no way I’m doing the advanced, so guess what I did on the 3rd one, advanced, and it was absolutely awesome. There were chairlifts to get us back to the luge tracks, I really wasn’t sure about these at first, but was fine after the first ride back up. Daz made a comment that he likes the way I’ll give anything a try once, even if I’m really not sure about it. We left the track at about 5pm and headed to the lakes, Daz and Jackson wanted to swim and told me even though I was tired, I’d be fine because it would wake me up, however coming from a seaside town I know you don’t go in the water when you’re tired. Took lots more pictures though as it was absolutely stunning. Got back, ate and went to bed, absolutely exhausted after the last 2 days. Forgot to mention, when I got up this morning, I noticed I have an infestation of cold sores, my face and neck is covered, really red and swollen, may have to visit the Dr tomorrow as I’m not convinced it’s not Impetigo, again!

Mon 2nd Feb
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
I’ve written another 3 postcards to G and G and to Gran and Grandfer today. I’m really beginning to wonder when the others will get there. They have obviously gone by pack horse, via outer Mongolia!! Got up about 8 and rang Mum, as promised last night, wasn’t on the phone too long as Mum was about to have roast chicken for tea, (oh, how good a proper cooked meal would be…) Then got my backside fed and showered and went to the Dr’s to try to sort out the mess on my face and neck. Lets face it won’t be meeting any guys looking like this! Dr prescribed me with anti-viral tablets and told me to put Zovirax on all of it until they get weepy, then I need to use antibiotic cream. If the swelling doesn’t go down on them I need to go get antibiotics in 2 days time as well. This privilege cost me $56 plus the cost of the prescription, best check the bank account again! Got back and walked into town with Jill. Took the laptop and went online for free in Chaos, uploaded nearly 100 photos from Saturday night and Sunday day, (really must get some of Tauranga, been here for 2 weeks and not taken any yet), applied for a job and checked Plenty of Fish, nothing new over the weekend, well an e-mail from the Aussie guy, will respond tomorrow. Went up to Demo and handed in my CV after my chat with the Manager on Saturday, so hoping that I at least get an interview. Walked home, got back about 3 and realised there’d been no lunch yet! Updated my new map and that was about it. Had another walk down by the river tonight, doing lots of walking, I’m determined to shift this extra weight!!

Tue 3rd Feb
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
Got up really late today. Went to bed early last night and caught up on this (well a bit, am finishing it today), but ended up getting back up and chatting to Maria until 12:45am. Not working has really started to grate today, I am really bored, particularly in the evenings as I’m not tired. I got a call from Tarocash today to tell me I’m working Friday 6-9 and Sunday 9-5 and that’s it, although on other weeks I’ll work Monday 2-6 as well. I don’t think that’s enough hours for me so tomorrow I am going to look into full time work, not kiwi orchards though, no way! Swelling on my face has gone down which is really good, but they haven’t disappeared yet. Anyway, got up late and went to Bayfair, swapped Daz’s shirt and had Sushi for lunch. Went over to the mount to look in the shops over there and had a walk and a massive ice cream sundae (bang goes the idea of a healthy lunch!) Came back and read for a bit, had a bit of a doze as well, don’t know why as I wasn’t slightly tired, very odd. Had Snapper and chips for tea, as Daz is going out to eat, then went for a walk with Rob as I was bored. Marcel’s quote of the day today was “when the cat is out of the house the mice are dancing on the tables” as he learnt when the cat’s away the mice will play today. Apparently they’re having chainsaws tomorrow, I’m really not sure I trust that one with a chainsaw. Had a quick chat with Jules and that was about it today. May play DS a bit now, not sure…. Need a man, that would keep me occupied for a couple of evenings a week surely! Oh, the CD of the rafting pictures came today, I will have to get it uploaded tomorrow! It’s 10:20pm and I think I’m going to ring G and G. Documenting it in case I forget when I last called them!! Called CS2 again as well, still no update!!

Wed 4th Feb
Stayed at Just the Ducks Nuts (Tauranga): Rating 8/10
If I remember rightly, not much happened today. I wanted to go to the beach, as my tan has started to fade a bit, but it was really cloudy again. All I did was go into town, go online to look for work, also Darren said my code had come (it hadn’t, the id number had come) so I looked at doing my tax return. No luck with work, I think I’m going to have to stop being too picky and work every evening if that’s what I have to do. Came back to the hostel and did the only bit of housework I have to do (washing) then read a whole load. I have started reading Dog the Bounty Hunter’s autobiography, it’s really good.

Friday, February 13, 2009

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Fran's New Zealand Trip

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