One year on
Well, dear reader, you find me sitting in the kitchen of an old and treasured friend on the edge of the Cairngorms. I…
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Recent Posts
Auckland, Waiheke and the final fling
Landing back in Auckland after my South Seas sojourn, all is mayhem ! The city is awash with people of a certain vintage…
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Distant drums and wiggling bums
Sunday begins with a ‘special omelette breakfast’ involving a ziplock bag. (you had to be there !) Afterwards I walk to the local…
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South Pacific – ‘Raro’
Desperate for a sunny fix before returning to the UK, I hatch a plan. A couple of hour’s research has me booked on…
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Cape Reinga – the leaping-off place of spirits
I’m heading to Cape Reinga*, almost the northernmost tip of New Zealand. I’m on an iconic trip in a 4WD bus, through miles…
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Recommendations and rainbows
Matauri Bay is a find. An achingly pretty swathe of sand, it’s as sun-drenched as the turquoise sea in its’ bay. A…
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Islands in the Bay of Islands
Before leaving the Bay of Islands, I visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Back in 1840 peaceful Maoris petitioned the UK govt and Queen…
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Kororareka and the Bay of Islands
This morning the sun is shining and the rain only intermittent. It’s a short drive to Russell, but I detour plenty on the…
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‘Northland’ – North Island
Knowing not a soul in North Island, I feel a need to connect. Armed with a couple of contact numbers I find myself…
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New Zealand – Akaroa, oh, Akaroa !
Originally I fancied the TranzAlpine train* for this leg, instead we drive over Arthur’s Pass through thick mist and rain. No views then. …
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