Well, dear reader, you find me sitting in the kitchen of an old and treasured friend on the edge of the Cairngorms.  I…

Landing back in Auckland after my South Seas sojourn, all is mayhem !  The city is awash with people of a certain vintage…

Sunday begins with a ‘special omelette breakfast’ involving a ziplock bag.  (you had to be there !)  Afterwards I walk to the local…

Desperate for a sunny fix before returning to the UK, I hatch a plan.  A couple of hour’s research has me booked on…

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…

Matauri Bay is a find.  An achingly pretty swathe of sand, it’s as sun-drenched as the turquoise sea in its’ bay.   A…

Before leaving the Bay of Islands, I visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.  Back in 1840 peaceful Maoris petitioned the UK govt and Queen…

This morning the sun is shining and the rain only intermittent.  It’s a short drive to Russell, but I detour plenty on the…

Knowing not a soul in North Island, I feel a need to connect.  Armed with a couple of contact numbers I find myself…

Originally I fancied the TranzAlpine train* for this leg, instead we drive over Arthur’s Pass through thick mist and rain.  No views then. …