Hamish departs and Janine arrives

Hamish had a busy first week but I think his highlight was Hobbiton, so he is now off to visit all the other Lord of the Rings and Hobbit scenery he can.

He started up in Rotorua then travelling by bus through the North Island and South to Queenstown. Good Luck.

Then a friend of Shona's from 30 years ago arrived from Brisbane - Janine, who we haven't seen for 15 years!
So a lot to catch up on over a few glasses of wine and many cups of tea!!

We had a lovely weekend in Taupo and found a superb hot spring to relax in - what a treat.

Janine and Shona also had a great spa and girlie pampering day, starting with a beautiful facial, shopping, lunch, hot pools swim, massage all finished off with a lovely meal on the balcony of the Harbourside Restaurant (Malcolm was invited for the meal!!)

 

Then all too soon it was back up to Auckland for Janine to catch her flight on Wednesday- we certainly won't leave it as long next time!!

 

Malcolm had fun as well on Wednesday, seeing Eddie Issard in Hamilton! He apparently compared the Welsh accent to the Indian accent - one speeded up one slowed down!! Malcolm said he cried laughing!

 



Wandering Minstrel Hamish arrives

Busy February coming up, lots of visitors.

First to arrive is Hamish the middle son of our great friends the Jeffcotts. He is travelling around NZ for 8 weeks and singing for his supper by busking as he goes. But before he set off he helped us move back into the apartment in Pacific Palms - so nice to be back. It has been very hot so it is lovely to have a pool to cool off in again.
He was a wee bit jetlagged when he first got here, but soon was drinking tea and planning his big trip!

 

He brought Malcolm his long awaited Welsh shirt, in time for the big match - Wales vs England in the 6 Nations. They were both glued to the screen but unfortunately got quieter and quieter as the second half progressed. Not to be Wales day!

Before he set off we showed him round the area and has a couple of evenings out with friends. The Emily Smith concert was great (thanks to David my brother in law for letting us know!)

 

 

We also had a lovely day canoeing and paddle boarding down the Waiparo river and enjoyed a beautiful swim and BBQ at John and Liz's.

 

Poor Hamish learnt the lesson that you need suncream on your feet!