22/1/12 Sunday Simple really... chilling in the sun
Need I say more?
23/1/12 -27/1/12 Dog attack.
Well its that pesky thing again. Work Things of note well I got attacked by a mean dog- you know the type all teeth and neck muscle So anyway I went into a garden and a dog bounded over the fence barking at me. I distracted it with my file and this worked moderately well until it thought my legs was a much better prospect. It go my trouser leg but by this time I had edged close enough to the fence so I checked my file at the dog and vaulted over the fence. The result being that I was safe if not a bit sore from banging my legs and the dog had my file and papers in its garden. Luckily there was a contractor near by and with me watching the garden he jumped over the fence or retrieved my files. A quick call to animal control and the owner was visited and served with a dangerous dog noticed and fined. Not a nice time but never the less I am safe.
The rest of the week was family uneventful. We told people we were leaving which caused much surprise. We also popped to the ocean spa for an evening soak and entertained friends a few nights.
28/1/12-29/1/12 The weekend that never was
With the clock counting down on our time in New Zealand we decided to so some of the things we had been talking about. We booked to go hand gliding and duly turned up on the top of a very steep hill at the allotted time. Alas it was too windy so we opted for a walk followed by a movie back home.
With the clock counting down we again decided to try and do some of those things... guess what it was both too windy for hand gliding and the super fast go karts were all booked up. With our look we will keep away from hot air ballooning! That said a bungee jump has been suggested for next weekend.
Sunday, 29 January 2012
Monday, 23 January 2012
Our adventures continue...
17/01/12 Joyce and Dave
Our last day in the south island saw us have breakfast with Joyce and Dave. After a fantastic mainly organic feed we were on our way. Before long we had stopped at some boulders that were totally round. Of course this was followed by a walk along the beech. Mum having been so carful with her legs made a jump over a stream and alas this ended with a sore knee. Inevitable really
Post walk we stopped for a fantastic fish lunch served out of a campervan. Thinking we had an age before we were due at the airport we took a leisurely pace. Fortunately James looked at the tickets and we realised that we needed to get there sooner than we had anticipated. We arrive 40 minutes before the flight and due to internal flights being a bit like busses, as in you just get on, check you own luggage and don't bother with security, all was well.
The lovely roger collected us from the airport with the essentials for life: milk, cereal, sweets and a lemon for a G&T....
18/1/12 Oh god its time to pack
Our last day together in New Zealand saw another walk, some dreaded packing from mum and a visit to the outdoor pool. The evening was spent eating fantastic food with Roger and Ross in Mint before retiring to their house for some post dinner drinks.
19/1/12 Hilary is on her way
The bird has flown the New Zealand nest. Hilary is on her way home. How nice it has been to spend some time with Hilary. She talked about all the support she had received from Carol, Elspeth, Sarah, Hillary and many others. Well you have done a fantastic job and thanks for keeping an eye on her...
20/1/12 Back to reality
Work work work. Oh well it pays the bills. James is still on his days off and lounging around the house (that said he has cleaned) Its also not too bad as the sun is shining and I can walk to my visits. My favourite sight of the week has been three huge tattooed men drinking beer and talking lots whilst feeding a new born baby. Incoungurs but nice to see never the less.
Friday heralds the weekend and our find Tory is coming rung for dinner including a home baked banana cake. Yum Yum
21/1/12 The sun is out again
Well with mum gone the sun is out again so we headded to the beech to do not very much. Joining us was roger and Tory and an afternoon of reclining, soaking up the sun and swimming followed. See this is what the weather is normally like mum... Honest!
21/1/12 Bare back riding!
We have been butch... Very butch. We went to the rodio. Now silighlty detracting frok our buchness was roger in a shirt sporting topless cowboys. We thought we were going to get dun over but amazingly no one seam to notice. After a beer and a skeak sandwich we ventured over to the area that they let the cows, bulls and horses out of the traps with mad men sitting bare back on these bucking beasts!
At one point they had ran out of riders and the guy orgniseing these things looked at me and sugested I give it a go. Normally one likes a challange but the complate lack of helments, body armer or safty somewhat put me off. The only requirment appeared to be that you were willing to give it a go. Some where drunk, one man complated his ride with a fag in his mouth and amazingly noone appeared to die. The odd cracked rib, and sore everything else occoured but no death. It seams madness that the law sti[pulates tyou ware a helmet even of a cycle path but riding a wilde bucking bull requires no such protecton!
Our last day in the south island saw us have breakfast with Joyce and Dave. After a fantastic mainly organic feed we were on our way. Before long we had stopped at some boulders that were totally round. Of course this was followed by a walk along the beech. Mum having been so carful with her legs made a jump over a stream and alas this ended with a sore knee. Inevitable really
Post walk we stopped for a fantastic fish lunch served out of a campervan. Thinking we had an age before we were due at the airport we took a leisurely pace. Fortunately James looked at the tickets and we realised that we needed to get there sooner than we had anticipated. We arrive 40 minutes before the flight and due to internal flights being a bit like busses, as in you just get on, check you own luggage and don't bother with security, all was well.
The lovely roger collected us from the airport with the essentials for life: milk, cereal, sweets and a lemon for a G&T....
18/1/12 Oh god its time to pack
Our last day together in New Zealand saw another walk, some dreaded packing from mum and a visit to the outdoor pool. The evening was spent eating fantastic food with Roger and Ross in Mint before retiring to their house for some post dinner drinks.
19/1/12 Hilary is on her way
The bird has flown the New Zealand nest. Hilary is on her way home. How nice it has been to spend some time with Hilary. She talked about all the support she had received from Carol, Elspeth, Sarah, Hillary and many others. Well you have done a fantastic job and thanks for keeping an eye on her...
20/1/12 Back to reality
Work work work. Oh well it pays the bills. James is still on his days off and lounging around the house (that said he has cleaned) Its also not too bad as the sun is shining and I can walk to my visits. My favourite sight of the week has been three huge tattooed men drinking beer and talking lots whilst feeding a new born baby. Incoungurs but nice to see never the less.
Friday heralds the weekend and our find Tory is coming rung for dinner including a home baked banana cake. Yum Yum
21/1/12 The sun is out again
Well with mum gone the sun is out again so we headded to the beech to do not very much. Joining us was roger and Tory and an afternoon of reclining, soaking up the sun and swimming followed. See this is what the weather is normally like mum... Honest!
21/1/12 Bare back riding!
We have been butch... Very butch. We went to the rodio. Now silighlty detracting frok our buchness was roger in a shirt sporting topless cowboys. We thought we were going to get dun over but amazingly no one seam to notice. After a beer and a skeak sandwich we ventured over to the area that they let the cows, bulls and horses out of the traps with mad men sitting bare back on these bucking beasts!
At one point they had ran out of riders and the guy orgniseing these things looked at me and sugested I give it a go. Normally one likes a challange but the complate lack of helments, body armer or safty somewhat put me off. The only requirment appeared to be that you were willing to give it a go. Some where drunk, one man complated his ride with a fag in his mouth and amazingly noone appeared to die. The odd cracked rib, and sore everything else occoured but no death. It seams madness that the law sti[pulates tyou ware a helmet even of a cycle path but riding a wilde bucking bull requires no such protecton!
Sunday, 15 January 2012
The return of the Joyce
16/01/11
Its 5.30am and James is shaking me. There is not an earthquake but Hilary is snoring. Later we work out the deodorant spray affects her nasal passage causing the noise. After getting Hilary to sit up we return to sleep before waking once more to enjoy the day.
Leaving James to catch up on his beauty sleep Hilary and I head to Joyce and Dave’s house, the couple we met when walking. After a brew we had off for an invigorating walk around the stunning botanical gardens. Half way round Joyce spy’s a truck with old roses and bounds over to did around for some good cast offs. It’s now apparent that it’s not just my mum that is embarrassing but all mothers! Later her son regales us with tales of rescuing items from house clearance skips.
Post lunch Joyce heads off too work and Dave, James, Hilary and I head off on an adventure. With some getting lost we arrive at the coast and observe from a high point the workings of the port. Later its afternoon tea followed by a walk down to a stunning cliff overlooking the sea. As always the rain was ever present with Hilary being in the vicinity but obligingly it cleared up whenever we went outside.
Dinner, bath and newspapers followed back at the apartment before ferrying Hilary to Joyce’s B&B for her nights’ accommodation. Sharing a bedroom with the beds 80cm apart was not appealing for any of us!
In all another fantastic day in the south island!
Its 5.30am and James is shaking me. There is not an earthquake but Hilary is snoring. Later we work out the deodorant spray affects her nasal passage causing the noise. After getting Hilary to sit up we return to sleep before waking once more to enjoy the day.
Leaving James to catch up on his beauty sleep Hilary and I head to Joyce and Dave’s house, the couple we met when walking. After a brew we had off for an invigorating walk around the stunning botanical gardens. Half way round Joyce spy’s a truck with old roses and bounds over to did around for some good cast offs. It’s now apparent that it’s not just my mum that is embarrassing but all mothers! Later her son regales us with tales of rescuing items from house clearance skips.
Post lunch Joyce heads off too work and Dave, James, Hilary and I head off on an adventure. With some getting lost we arrive at the coast and observe from a high point the workings of the port. Later its afternoon tea followed by a walk down to a stunning cliff overlooking the sea. As always the rain was ever present with Hilary being in the vicinity but obligingly it cleared up whenever we went outside.
Dinner, bath and newspapers followed back at the apartment before ferrying Hilary to Joyce’s B&B for her nights’ accommodation. Sharing a bedroom with the beds 80cm apart was not appealing for any of us!
In all another fantastic day in the south island!
Saturday, 14 January 2012
Hilary the water diviner
Guest Editor: Hilary the wet weather hodge
13/01/12 –
Friday the 13th – it absolutely bucketed down all day – it was raining yesterday but nothing like today. The locals were thrilled – they hadn’t had any rain for a couple of months – they should consider calling on me when they need rain – as soon as I arrive the rains come. Never mind we had another much needed restful day and Luke and I managed to get a short walk in before the heavens opened on us on our way back to the apartment.
14 and 15/01/12 – Doubtful Sound – another rain soaked adventure
The New Zealand Fiords are called Sounds of which one is Doubtful Sound. To reach the Sound you travel across Lake Manapouri and then by coach to the beginning of the Sound – this takes 2hours with very beautiful scenery – even in the rain. You then board a boat which takes you through the Sound just out into the open sea to look at a seal colony, goes back into the Sound and moors overnight.
The first past of this trip was with low cloud and driving rain – and guess what - again the first they had had for sometime! However, there was a distinct advantage to this as we saw a plethora of dramatic waterfalls which would not have been there in dry weather. Half way through the afternoon our luck was in as the weather cleared for the planned activities to take place – kayaking and for the brave swimming.
I wanted to kayak but how would I manage to get into the kayak from the back of the boat – no problem says one of the crew – so with a certain amount of disbelief and Luke offering to tow me back if necessary I set off and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Next up was the swimming – with some fascination from the boat’s captain and crew and other fellow passengers who were looking on this elderly woman holds hands with Luke and James as we jump in together. Only about ten of us (out of 56) took the plunge. The young boys then started to jump off a platform on the boat about 10ft above the water and of course Luke and James joined in – come on Mum says Luke – no I don’t think so I reply – come on you can do it – so guess what I clambered up and with considerable encouragement from the assembled crowd jumped in and have lived to tell the tale(there are photos to prove it)!
After an excellent dinner there was a presentation about the geological history of New Zealand which basically comes down to a combination of a land mass breaking off from Australia moving across and combined with earthquakes and glaciers forming the country and we were looking at the evidence of this through Doubtful Sound. One of the striking things about the country is how unstable it is with earthquakes, glaciers, thermal mud pools etc. My lasting impression of Doubtful Sound is of a beautiful, majestic wilderness.
Sunday morning James was appalled to be told that breakfast was between 7 and 8am and he had to be up as the crew had to make the beds in the cabins at 8am. Anyway he managed it and we sailed back and reversed the journey to reach our car at midday. We then set off for the four hour journey to Dunedin which was uneventful. Luke decided he wanted to go to the theatre but there wasn’t anything on so we settled for going to see the film The Iron Lady.
13/01/12 –
Friday the 13th – it absolutely bucketed down all day – it was raining yesterday but nothing like today. The locals were thrilled – they hadn’t had any rain for a couple of months – they should consider calling on me when they need rain – as soon as I arrive the rains come. Never mind we had another much needed restful day and Luke and I managed to get a short walk in before the heavens opened on us on our way back to the apartment.
14 and 15/01/12 – Doubtful Sound – another rain soaked adventure
The New Zealand Fiords are called Sounds of which one is Doubtful Sound. To reach the Sound you travel across Lake Manapouri and then by coach to the beginning of the Sound – this takes 2hours with very beautiful scenery – even in the rain. You then board a boat which takes you through the Sound just out into the open sea to look at a seal colony, goes back into the Sound and moors overnight.
The first past of this trip was with low cloud and driving rain – and guess what - again the first they had had for sometime! However, there was a distinct advantage to this as we saw a plethora of dramatic waterfalls which would not have been there in dry weather. Half way through the afternoon our luck was in as the weather cleared for the planned activities to take place – kayaking and for the brave swimming.
I wanted to kayak but how would I manage to get into the kayak from the back of the boat – no problem says one of the crew – so with a certain amount of disbelief and Luke offering to tow me back if necessary I set off and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Next up was the swimming – with some fascination from the boat’s captain and crew and other fellow passengers who were looking on this elderly woman holds hands with Luke and James as we jump in together. Only about ten of us (out of 56) took the plunge. The young boys then started to jump off a platform on the boat about 10ft above the water and of course Luke and James joined in – come on Mum says Luke – no I don’t think so I reply – come on you can do it – so guess what I clambered up and with considerable encouragement from the assembled crowd jumped in and have lived to tell the tale(there are photos to prove it)!
After an excellent dinner there was a presentation about the geological history of New Zealand which basically comes down to a combination of a land mass breaking off from Australia moving across and combined with earthquakes and glaciers forming the country and we were looking at the evidence of this through Doubtful Sound. One of the striking things about the country is how unstable it is with earthquakes, glaciers, thermal mud pools etc. My lasting impression of Doubtful Sound is of a beautiful, majestic wilderness.
Sunday morning James was appalled to be told that breakfast was between 7 and 8am and he had to be up as the crew had to make the beds in the cabins at 8am. Anyway he managed it and we sailed back and reversed the journey to reach our car at midday. We then set off for the four hour journey to Dunedin which was uneventful. Luke decided he wanted to go to the theatre but there wasn’t anything on so we settled for going to see the film The Iron Lady.
Wednesday, 11 January 2012
Hilly adventures continue
Guest Editor: Hilary Hodge
08/01/12
Hilary triumphs
The last day of our 4 day treck – 10Km. Joyce who had done the walk before warned that the last part involved a steep walk down on a gravel path – not good for the Hilly knees. In consultation with the owner of the property we were staying in it was decided that if I did the majority of the walk James and I could wait while Luke went on down and fetched the car. When we reached the said location the weather had turned and there was a cold wind so James and I took refuge in a trekkers lodge. Now although the route down and back had all been explained finding the road back up was not exactly straight forward but Luke eventually managed to find us again and we were happily reunited.
Next was to find the motel in Akorora which James had booked and to check out the restaurant which Luke and I did while James had a swim in the motel pool. Dinner was really good – it was French – and the rose wine was the best I have ever tasted.
So I had managed the 20 mile treck – up and down cliffs through forests and over rocks – I am impressed!
09/01/12 – 11/01/12
Off to Mount Cook and our adventures there
Mount Cook is about a 5 hour drive from Akorora so Monday was spent travelling. Now New Zealand only has one motorway around Auckland so we were travelling on route 1 renamed the M1 by us. Although only an ordinary road with occasional dual passing places due to the lack of traffic it is almost like travelling on a motorway. What we can’t understand is there don’t seem to be any delivery type lorries so how do they get goods from one place to another – we shall have to investigate later.
Akaroa which is the settlement where Mount Cook is does not consist of a lot. We were booked into the Youth Hostel which apart from having paper thin walls and depriving James of his sleep was very nice! James decanted to sleep in the car both nights due to the noise levels. The Old Mountaineers café was where we ate and drank had a great atmosphere. The owners had legal battles with the up market hotel to get established as the hotel had not wanted any competition.
Tuesday morning we awoke to a disaster – the clouds were covering the mountain tops and we got a call to say although we had booked to go up in a plane to fly over Mount Cook and to land on a glacier the plane could not fly in the prevailing conditions. However, the helicopter might be able to fly later in the day if the weather improved.
The problem was that we had booked to go glacial sea kayaking in the afternoon. Let’s see if we can change it to this morning we cried – yes was the answer - if you can get here in half an hour. A very quick breakfast (Hilly can’t survive without her breakfast) and we were off – only 10 minutes late with profuse apologies to the other couple and the guide for being late. A short lesson in kayaking, a drive to near the lake and a scramble across the rocks to get to the lake then ensued. The guide, a delightful young woman, was great at helping me as I hadn’t anticipated this part of the activity and hadn’t brought my sticks – a necessity for any uneven walking.
The lake was milky grey in colour from the glaciers bringing rocks and sediment down from the mountains as they break off and tumble down to the lake. We noticed what appeared to be a small piece of ice in the water but which turned out to be iceberg with a considerable mass beneath the surface. The guide explained the history and activity of the glacier as we were paddling along – or more accurately as Luke was paddling as we were in a double kayak!
After lunch Luke rang the airport (a relative term) to ask whether our trip could go ahead – an excited Luke shouted to us – get ready we need to get there in the next 20 minutes. We were given a few safety instructions and then escorted out to meet Mark the pilot who turned out to be great and very reassuring – none of us had been in a helicopter before and James is not too keen on flying at the best of times.
We donned our sun glasses, head phones and microphone for the intercom and off we flew. Wow what an experience. We flew up to the summit of Mount Cook, circled around it, looked down crevasses, landed on a glacier, got out and walked on the glacier and had the most fantastic views of the snow, ice and surrounding scenery. Quotes from Luke and James – It was like a scene from a Bond movie – the three of us rose shakily in a helicopter with a collective gasp and headed to the great expanse of the glacier – James felt like he was ‘challenge Anika” ‘closest experience yet to truly flying’.
When we landed we were all almost overcome by the awe of what we had seen – I had never understood why people wanted to climb mountains but this gave me some insight into why they do it.
11/01/12
Off to Lake Te Annau
Another long journey to our next location. James had very thoughtfully decided that by now we would be a little jaded from all our activity and so had booked us in for three nights to what turned out to be a fantastic apartment overlooking Lake Te Annau – oh what bliss. Thursday was spent pottering around, buying the weekly editions of the Guardian and Telegraph, sitting on the balcony overlooking the lake reading, Luke and I having a little stroll by the lake and not much else.
08/01/12
Hilary triumphs
The last day of our 4 day treck – 10Km. Joyce who had done the walk before warned that the last part involved a steep walk down on a gravel path – not good for the Hilly knees. In consultation with the owner of the property we were staying in it was decided that if I did the majority of the walk James and I could wait while Luke went on down and fetched the car. When we reached the said location the weather had turned and there was a cold wind so James and I took refuge in a trekkers lodge. Now although the route down and back had all been explained finding the road back up was not exactly straight forward but Luke eventually managed to find us again and we were happily reunited.
Next was to find the motel in Akorora which James had booked and to check out the restaurant which Luke and I did while James had a swim in the motel pool. Dinner was really good – it was French – and the rose wine was the best I have ever tasted.
So I had managed the 20 mile treck – up and down cliffs through forests and over rocks – I am impressed!
09/01/12 – 11/01/12
Off to Mount Cook and our adventures there
Mount Cook is about a 5 hour drive from Akorora so Monday was spent travelling. Now New Zealand only has one motorway around Auckland so we were travelling on route 1 renamed the M1 by us. Although only an ordinary road with occasional dual passing places due to the lack of traffic it is almost like travelling on a motorway. What we can’t understand is there don’t seem to be any delivery type lorries so how do they get goods from one place to another – we shall have to investigate later.
Akaroa which is the settlement where Mount Cook is does not consist of a lot. We were booked into the Youth Hostel which apart from having paper thin walls and depriving James of his sleep was very nice! James decanted to sleep in the car both nights due to the noise levels. The Old Mountaineers café was where we ate and drank had a great atmosphere. The owners had legal battles with the up market hotel to get established as the hotel had not wanted any competition.
Tuesday morning we awoke to a disaster – the clouds were covering the mountain tops and we got a call to say although we had booked to go up in a plane to fly over Mount Cook and to land on a glacier the plane could not fly in the prevailing conditions. However, the helicopter might be able to fly later in the day if the weather improved.
The problem was that we had booked to go glacial sea kayaking in the afternoon. Let’s see if we can change it to this morning we cried – yes was the answer - if you can get here in half an hour. A very quick breakfast (Hilly can’t survive without her breakfast) and we were off – only 10 minutes late with profuse apologies to the other couple and the guide for being late. A short lesson in kayaking, a drive to near the lake and a scramble across the rocks to get to the lake then ensued. The guide, a delightful young woman, was great at helping me as I hadn’t anticipated this part of the activity and hadn’t brought my sticks – a necessity for any uneven walking.
The lake was milky grey in colour from the glaciers bringing rocks and sediment down from the mountains as they break off and tumble down to the lake. We noticed what appeared to be a small piece of ice in the water but which turned out to be iceberg with a considerable mass beneath the surface. The guide explained the history and activity of the glacier as we were paddling along – or more accurately as Luke was paddling as we were in a double kayak!
After lunch Luke rang the airport (a relative term) to ask whether our trip could go ahead – an excited Luke shouted to us – get ready we need to get there in the next 20 minutes. We were given a few safety instructions and then escorted out to meet Mark the pilot who turned out to be great and very reassuring – none of us had been in a helicopter before and James is not too keen on flying at the best of times.
We donned our sun glasses, head phones and microphone for the intercom and off we flew. Wow what an experience. We flew up to the summit of Mount Cook, circled around it, looked down crevasses, landed on a glacier, got out and walked on the glacier and had the most fantastic views of the snow, ice and surrounding scenery. Quotes from Luke and James – It was like a scene from a Bond movie – the three of us rose shakily in a helicopter with a collective gasp and headed to the great expanse of the glacier – James felt like he was ‘challenge Anika” ‘closest experience yet to truly flying’.
When we landed we were all almost overcome by the awe of what we had seen – I had never understood why people wanted to climb mountains but this gave me some insight into why they do it.
11/01/12
Off to Lake Te Annau
Another long journey to our next location. James had very thoughtfully decided that by now we would be a little jaded from all our activity and so had booked us in for three nights to what turned out to be a fantastic apartment overlooking Lake Te Annau – oh what bliss. Thursday was spent pottering around, buying the weekly editions of the Guardian and Telegraph, sitting on the balcony overlooking the lake reading, Luke and I having a little stroll by the lake and not much else.
Sunday, 8 January 2012
Hilly the intrepidus
04/01/11 Hilly the intrepidus
We are off on our adventure and after loading up the car hit the roads. After a small stop in the quake damaged town of lyttleton we arrived at the She café. A restaurant specialising in chocolate. Delicious! Next up was an adventure down an unsealed road which Hilly was not happy about. We survived but it did not improve the collective mood of the group. That said it was adventurous!
Arriving in Akaroa moods calmed and we hit the shops to stock up for our four day track. After packing the bags we congregated at the allotted spot outside the tourist information centre before being picked up to being what became known as the hilly intrepidus adventure!
Our first nights’ accommodation was a short drive and walk up a hill overlooking a fantastic visa. With hilly purse we opted to go out for dinner as opposed to eating in. The booking was at the bush café which we knew would be basic and a little remote but noting prepared us for the 20 minute walk through the bush, dogging cows and over a stream. The final scrabble up a bank was the last straw with Hilary and James returning to the accommodation and me tuning dinner into a takeaway experience.
The patron was less than impressed and monosyllabic in his responses but eventually agreed to put the food into a few Tupperware pots. My journey back though a different set of fields saw me dodging a playfully young bull that was intrigued to see me and wanted to try out his mating technique with me. Alas he was 1 tone and I declined his advances.
Post dinner (which was lovely) we settled in to watch the sunset. Hillary and I slept on the mezzanine with James in an oversized rabbit hutch in the garden. Now this is not cruelty to chimps but in fact an opportunity to sleep in a star gazer hut which was a rabbit hutch with a plastic roof giving viewing access to the sky.
As we were going to sleep Hillary came out with the line of the day… ”I have never been camping before!” Camping I spluttered “this is luxury accommodation combined with a walk. Camping indeed! “
05/01/11 Hilly Olympics
The scheduled wake up time was 7am but at 615 Hilary decided to engage in some hilly Olympics. Somehow she managed to bag around on the floor and move every item we owned in search of ‘teeeee bags’ “where are the teeee bags.’ After successfully annoying me and disturbing me she headed down stairs to talk to the other guests and was again heard saying “I need a cup of tea. Do you have any tea bags?” Fortunately for me and the other guests a tea bag was proffered and the hilly clamed.
Hillary and I set off at 8am leaving James in his hutch. Again not cruelty to chimps but an agreed plan to enable us to walk slowly and for James to get his beauty sleep. First up for the day was an unrelenting hill climb. Hilary was of the view if she could crack this and the whole of the first day then she would be ok. The rational being that the next few days were shorter walks and the last day whilst long could always is opted out of.
We were rewarded with stunning views and fantastic weather. This was made even better by the fact that there was a bag transportation option for the first day. As such we could stroll along with just a day pack and our bags would be waiting for us at the next nights’ accommodation. Towards the end of the five hour walk Hilary was tired in in her typically matter of fact approach to life she demanded a lie down. Before you could count to ten she was on the floor with her hat pulled over her eyes. A mere 15 minutes later she was revived and we were soon at our accommodation.
This night was spent in an old house with stunning views across the sea. Hillary had got rather hot on the walk and decreed that we should go for a swim in the sea. Whilst Hillary may have been hot the rest of us were not and the local kiwi’s looked aghast (that said the other mad ones also decided to swim). As a good son I striped to my trunks and headed to the freezing sea. I watched Hilary wade in yelping as she went. I formed a mental pact that if she fully submerged then I would go in and dam it she did so before long we were both in the freezing sea.
Once back at the house the three of us got talking and before long we engaged in great discussions with Joyce and Dave. Wine was shared and over dinner it was agreed that I would cook for us all the following night and that we would also have dinner at Joyce’s B&B when we visited Dunedin.
Post dinner we headed off on a penguin spotting tour. He we were shown nesting little blue penguins, baby little blue penguins and observed penguins frolicking in the sea. Bloody fantastic and by the time of 9pm we were all tucked up in bed and sound asleep!
06/01/11 Sex and the over 50’s
Now that plan had been to get up at 7 but the activity of the day before had tired us out and we all slept for 11 hours waking at 8am. After packing and the obligatory cup of tea we set off. Unfortunately we missed the signs and headed down the wrong path. All was not good but none of us were sure we were on the wrong pact and no one wanted to turn around. As the path dropped into the sea we came to the collective decision that we had indeed gone the wrong way.
40 minutes later and we were heading in the right direction once more. Normally such a detour is not a problem but today we had full packs. James was lugging his stuff around an I carried a super pack containing both mine and Hilary’s items. One was less than impressed to find the mouth piece for her horn had slipped into the bag. Well at least if we were attached she would be able to practice and have the usual effect of sending everything within 50 meter radius running for cover with blood running from the ears.
After another fantastic days walking along the cost seeing stunning sea inlets, seals playing on the beach and numerous stops to admire the view we arrived at the next nights’ accommodation. This time we were in a converted ramshackle house with no electricity but an very eccentric owner who had an eye for details. There was an outside bath heated by fire wood, a tree swing with an arc of 25 meters, a pool table with tin cans to collect the pool balls, an indoor out door bbq area and more.
Of course the first thing James did was to light the bath and after a few hours, a sleep and a beer it was time for the hilly bathing adventure. We popped down a piece of wood on the base of the bath to prevent a burned bum and she hopped/ hobbled in. After an amazingly relaxing oh 8 minutes there came a call. “Luke, James it’s time for me to get out, come help.” We considered leaving her there to boil thus becoming dinner but in the end decided to help her out. Once out she was rather hot so purely for health reasons and not in any way because it amused me I doused her with a watering can of cold water.
Dinner was with Joyce and Dave and consisted of a visit to the onsite shop. Now this is like not ordinary camping shop but in fact sold steak, fresh veg and booze. Of course this mean we had to have BBQ steak, salad, and chips. All was going well until I went to the toilet and during the 2 minutes I was away James and Joyce helpfully poured out the “water” from the potatoes because they were cooked. Unfortunately I had already undertaken this procedure and they were in fact pouring away the oil I was frying the potatoes in. A scene of calamity therein followed with concerns that there was no more oil. Fortunately for my chips and those concerned the oil was sourced and the bruised and bashed potatoes began another frying.
In the end dinner was well received and we spent the evening talking to Joyce and Dave. Now this couple aged 50 and 60 are a new couple and very much in love. There is frequent hand holding, kissing, diapering into the woods and sexual innuendo. James has decided that the over 50’s do indeed have sex and it’s not disgusting as he previously thought. Even better for me he decreed that so long as I look like Dave at 60 he will not call time for our nocturnal adventures. Thank god for that!
07/01/11 They “MUST be spies”
Before heading out we had a full breakfast curtsey of the well-stocked shop. On the shop front this is actually a shed with a fridge in it and an honesty system for payment. Despite its humble nature it is an oasis of yummy things that transforms normally drab walking food into an almost gastronomic experience.
The third day of walking and mum did not appear to A) be dead B) have sun stroke C) be crippled or D) be grouchy as hell. All of these things we felt were a distinct possibility. In fact she was doing well and receiving many positive comments from the other walkers who were impressed that a lady of her age was taking on the challenge. The weather also played its part with the sea mist coming down and obliterating the sun meaning that the 4 hour walk without shade was not problem for hilly the intrepidus!
James led the advanced party and arrived as always at the accommodation before Hilary and I. Normally he was able to secure us a room for our exclusive use. Alas this was not possible on the forth night as there were only three rooms. Upon arriving he smiled sweetly (we as sweetly as he can) and suggested that I might like to sleep in the 6 bed dorm so that Hilary, he, Joyce and Dave could have the private room. In the end Joyce and Dave decided to sleep in a single bed as they were in sweet love and liked to spoon. We of course agreed subject to no hanky pinkie taking place. In the end Dave had headache so we were all safe!
Dinner again was a medley of food prepared by Joyce and I. Now this was really gourmet camping with bubbles to start a cheese platter, steak, salad, mash and veg. Not only did the shop provide food but also the garden offering up sorrel, day lily and rose pettles for the salad.
Post dinner and Pictionary came out bring together all of the other walkers. The two younger Germans who had been quite separate from the group were strong armed into playing. Joyce had suspected they were spies (she suspects everyone of this and yes is quite mad) but there jobs of working at an embassy and working for criminal intelligence did nothing the reduce this suspicion!
08/01/12
We are off on our adventure and after loading up the car hit the roads. After a small stop in the quake damaged town of lyttleton we arrived at the She café. A restaurant specialising in chocolate. Delicious! Next up was an adventure down an unsealed road which Hilly was not happy about. We survived but it did not improve the collective mood of the group. That said it was adventurous!
Arriving in Akaroa moods calmed and we hit the shops to stock up for our four day track. After packing the bags we congregated at the allotted spot outside the tourist information centre before being picked up to being what became known as the hilly intrepidus adventure!
Our first nights’ accommodation was a short drive and walk up a hill overlooking a fantastic visa. With hilly purse we opted to go out for dinner as opposed to eating in. The booking was at the bush café which we knew would be basic and a little remote but noting prepared us for the 20 minute walk through the bush, dogging cows and over a stream. The final scrabble up a bank was the last straw with Hilary and James returning to the accommodation and me tuning dinner into a takeaway experience.
The patron was less than impressed and monosyllabic in his responses but eventually agreed to put the food into a few Tupperware pots. My journey back though a different set of fields saw me dodging a playfully young bull that was intrigued to see me and wanted to try out his mating technique with me. Alas he was 1 tone and I declined his advances.
Post dinner (which was lovely) we settled in to watch the sunset. Hillary and I slept on the mezzanine with James in an oversized rabbit hutch in the garden. Now this is not cruelty to chimps but in fact an opportunity to sleep in a star gazer hut which was a rabbit hutch with a plastic roof giving viewing access to the sky.
As we were going to sleep Hillary came out with the line of the day… ”I have never been camping before!” Camping I spluttered “this is luxury accommodation combined with a walk. Camping indeed! “
05/01/11 Hilly Olympics
The scheduled wake up time was 7am but at 615 Hilary decided to engage in some hilly Olympics. Somehow she managed to bag around on the floor and move every item we owned in search of ‘teeeee bags’ “where are the teeee bags.’ After successfully annoying me and disturbing me she headed down stairs to talk to the other guests and was again heard saying “I need a cup of tea. Do you have any tea bags?” Fortunately for me and the other guests a tea bag was proffered and the hilly clamed.
Hillary and I set off at 8am leaving James in his hutch. Again not cruelty to chimps but an agreed plan to enable us to walk slowly and for James to get his beauty sleep. First up for the day was an unrelenting hill climb. Hilary was of the view if she could crack this and the whole of the first day then she would be ok. The rational being that the next few days were shorter walks and the last day whilst long could always is opted out of.
We were rewarded with stunning views and fantastic weather. This was made even better by the fact that there was a bag transportation option for the first day. As such we could stroll along with just a day pack and our bags would be waiting for us at the next nights’ accommodation. Towards the end of the five hour walk Hilary was tired in in her typically matter of fact approach to life she demanded a lie down. Before you could count to ten she was on the floor with her hat pulled over her eyes. A mere 15 minutes later she was revived and we were soon at our accommodation.
This night was spent in an old house with stunning views across the sea. Hillary had got rather hot on the walk and decreed that we should go for a swim in the sea. Whilst Hillary may have been hot the rest of us were not and the local kiwi’s looked aghast (that said the other mad ones also decided to swim). As a good son I striped to my trunks and headed to the freezing sea. I watched Hilary wade in yelping as she went. I formed a mental pact that if she fully submerged then I would go in and dam it she did so before long we were both in the freezing sea.
Once back at the house the three of us got talking and before long we engaged in great discussions with Joyce and Dave. Wine was shared and over dinner it was agreed that I would cook for us all the following night and that we would also have dinner at Joyce’s B&B when we visited Dunedin.
Post dinner we headed off on a penguin spotting tour. He we were shown nesting little blue penguins, baby little blue penguins and observed penguins frolicking in the sea. Bloody fantastic and by the time of 9pm we were all tucked up in bed and sound asleep!
06/01/11 Sex and the over 50’s
Now that plan had been to get up at 7 but the activity of the day before had tired us out and we all slept for 11 hours waking at 8am. After packing and the obligatory cup of tea we set off. Unfortunately we missed the signs and headed down the wrong path. All was not good but none of us were sure we were on the wrong pact and no one wanted to turn around. As the path dropped into the sea we came to the collective decision that we had indeed gone the wrong way.
40 minutes later and we were heading in the right direction once more. Normally such a detour is not a problem but today we had full packs. James was lugging his stuff around an I carried a super pack containing both mine and Hilary’s items. One was less than impressed to find the mouth piece for her horn had slipped into the bag. Well at least if we were attached she would be able to practice and have the usual effect of sending everything within 50 meter radius running for cover with blood running from the ears.
After another fantastic days walking along the cost seeing stunning sea inlets, seals playing on the beach and numerous stops to admire the view we arrived at the next nights’ accommodation. This time we were in a converted ramshackle house with no electricity but an very eccentric owner who had an eye for details. There was an outside bath heated by fire wood, a tree swing with an arc of 25 meters, a pool table with tin cans to collect the pool balls, an indoor out door bbq area and more.
Of course the first thing James did was to light the bath and after a few hours, a sleep and a beer it was time for the hilly bathing adventure. We popped down a piece of wood on the base of the bath to prevent a burned bum and she hopped/ hobbled in. After an amazingly relaxing oh 8 minutes there came a call. “Luke, James it’s time for me to get out, come help.” We considered leaving her there to boil thus becoming dinner but in the end decided to help her out. Once out she was rather hot so purely for health reasons and not in any way because it amused me I doused her with a watering can of cold water.
Dinner was with Joyce and Dave and consisted of a visit to the onsite shop. Now this is like not ordinary camping shop but in fact sold steak, fresh veg and booze. Of course this mean we had to have BBQ steak, salad, and chips. All was going well until I went to the toilet and during the 2 minutes I was away James and Joyce helpfully poured out the “water” from the potatoes because they were cooked. Unfortunately I had already undertaken this procedure and they were in fact pouring away the oil I was frying the potatoes in. A scene of calamity therein followed with concerns that there was no more oil. Fortunately for my chips and those concerned the oil was sourced and the bruised and bashed potatoes began another frying.
In the end dinner was well received and we spent the evening talking to Joyce and Dave. Now this couple aged 50 and 60 are a new couple and very much in love. There is frequent hand holding, kissing, diapering into the woods and sexual innuendo. James has decided that the over 50’s do indeed have sex and it’s not disgusting as he previously thought. Even better for me he decreed that so long as I look like Dave at 60 he will not call time for our nocturnal adventures. Thank god for that!
07/01/11 They “MUST be spies”
Before heading out we had a full breakfast curtsey of the well-stocked shop. On the shop front this is actually a shed with a fridge in it and an honesty system for payment. Despite its humble nature it is an oasis of yummy things that transforms normally drab walking food into an almost gastronomic experience.
The third day of walking and mum did not appear to A) be dead B) have sun stroke C) be crippled or D) be grouchy as hell. All of these things we felt were a distinct possibility. In fact she was doing well and receiving many positive comments from the other walkers who were impressed that a lady of her age was taking on the challenge. The weather also played its part with the sea mist coming down and obliterating the sun meaning that the 4 hour walk without shade was not problem for hilly the intrepidus!
James led the advanced party and arrived as always at the accommodation before Hilary and I. Normally he was able to secure us a room for our exclusive use. Alas this was not possible on the forth night as there were only three rooms. Upon arriving he smiled sweetly (we as sweetly as he can) and suggested that I might like to sleep in the 6 bed dorm so that Hilary, he, Joyce and Dave could have the private room. In the end Joyce and Dave decided to sleep in a single bed as they were in sweet love and liked to spoon. We of course agreed subject to no hanky pinkie taking place. In the end Dave had headache so we were all safe!
Dinner again was a medley of food prepared by Joyce and I. Now this was really gourmet camping with bubbles to start a cheese platter, steak, salad, mash and veg. Not only did the shop provide food but also the garden offering up sorrel, day lily and rose pettles for the salad.
Post dinner and Pictionary came out bring together all of the other walkers. The two younger Germans who had been quite separate from the group were strong armed into playing. Joyce had suspected they were spies (she suspects everyone of this and yes is quite mad) but there jobs of working at an embassy and working for criminal intelligence did nothing the reduce this suspicion!
08/01/12
Hilly blogs again!
Guest editor: Hilary Hodge
2nd /3rd January 2012 – Trip to Rotorua and flight to Christchurch
Rotorua
Roger and Ross called for us at 9.30am to drive us to Rotorua - about 3 hours journey through delightful countryside – well it would have been if we had been able to see it all – still overcast and drizzly in Napier. However, after about an hours driving the weather brightened up and the sunshine so long promised materialised. Roger acted as tour guide and stopped to show me the geothermal bubbling mud pools – an amazing sight. We were then dropped off to experience the spa waters – several pools with water at different degrees of warmth which you can relax in – very pleasant.
On the return journey we stopped to admire stunning waterfalls and Lake Tapau. By this point the effect of the sun had achieved what it always does – prickly heat causing my skin to become red, inflamed and swollen. I was desperate to cool down so said I wanted to swim in the lake – a suggestion met with utter horror by Roger and Ross but with longsuffering tolerance by Luke. It will be freezing I was warned but coolness was what I longed for. Poor Luke felt he couldn’t let his old Mum go in alone so he valiantly plunged in with me – it was utter bliss! (just in case you are wondering we did change into our swimming costumes first). A gin and tonic was my next requirement on our return despite Luke reminding me that we had said it was to be an evening without alcohol. We gave in (reluctantly of course) and added some local red wine to the event, sat on the veranda after dinner and put the world to rights – very enjoyable.
Christchurch
The time had come to set off for our trip to the South Island. Luke and I went into Napier to get a few last items we needed but it turned into yet another shopping trip for me (Sarah and Elspeth don’t faint). My swimming costume had split yesterday so I had to get a new one - but it finished up with me also buying the swimming shorts and top that is worn here to give some protection from the sun – so I will have to have another trip somewhere hot to make this purchase worthwhile! Roger picked us up at 1pm and took us to Napier airport where we caught a flight to Christchurch – which was also overcast when we arrived with everyone saying it has been lovely and sunny until now! Against my better judgement we are spending 24 hours in Christchurch despite the fact that they have had earthquakes on each of the previous two nights – ah well I suppose you have to live dangerously sometimes – James says he wants to experience one – not a view I share having done so many years ago in Italy. Anyway we are now off to an Italian restaurant for dinner.
2nd /3rd January 2012 – Trip to Rotorua and flight to Christchurch
Rotorua
Roger and Ross called for us at 9.30am to drive us to Rotorua - about 3 hours journey through delightful countryside – well it would have been if we had been able to see it all – still overcast and drizzly in Napier. However, after about an hours driving the weather brightened up and the sunshine so long promised materialised. Roger acted as tour guide and stopped to show me the geothermal bubbling mud pools – an amazing sight. We were then dropped off to experience the spa waters – several pools with water at different degrees of warmth which you can relax in – very pleasant.
On the return journey we stopped to admire stunning waterfalls and Lake Tapau. By this point the effect of the sun had achieved what it always does – prickly heat causing my skin to become red, inflamed and swollen. I was desperate to cool down so said I wanted to swim in the lake – a suggestion met with utter horror by Roger and Ross but with longsuffering tolerance by Luke. It will be freezing I was warned but coolness was what I longed for. Poor Luke felt he couldn’t let his old Mum go in alone so he valiantly plunged in with me – it was utter bliss! (just in case you are wondering we did change into our swimming costumes first). A gin and tonic was my next requirement on our return despite Luke reminding me that we had said it was to be an evening without alcohol. We gave in (reluctantly of course) and added some local red wine to the event, sat on the veranda after dinner and put the world to rights – very enjoyable.
Christchurch
The time had come to set off for our trip to the South Island. Luke and I went into Napier to get a few last items we needed but it turned into yet another shopping trip for me (Sarah and Elspeth don’t faint). My swimming costume had split yesterday so I had to get a new one - but it finished up with me also buying the swimming shorts and top that is worn here to give some protection from the sun – so I will have to have another trip somewhere hot to make this purchase worthwhile! Roger picked us up at 1pm and took us to Napier airport where we caught a flight to Christchurch – which was also overcast when we arrived with everyone saying it has been lovely and sunny until now! Against my better judgement we are spending 24 hours in Christchurch despite the fact that they have had earthquakes on each of the previous two nights – ah well I suppose you have to live dangerously sometimes – James says he wants to experience one – not a view I share having done so many years ago in Italy. Anyway we are now off to an Italian restaurant for dinner.
Monday, 2 January 2012
NEW YEAR
Guest editor: Hilary Hodge
Friday 30th,Saturday 31stDec and Sunday 1st Jan 2012
Yesterday was the end of the dry weather – for the next two days it was to pour down – oh we never have weather like this for New Year everyone kept saying and Christmas was so nice and sunny. Well my Xmas and New Year were both to be under low cloud, mist and at times sheeting rain. So even travelling right across the world doesn’t guarantee you the sunshine! Ah and its New Years day and the rain has just started again – ugh – the only positive feature is that it delays me getting an outbreak of prickly heat which will inevitably happen once the sun comes out - we British have to remain positive don’t we?
Anyway to return to the activities of the last couple of days. Friday we were taken on a wine tour by Luke and James friend Ross. The gist of this is that we visited five different wineries where they let you taste a number of different wines in the hope that you will buy some bottles which of course we duly obliged and did so. Ross has constructed a delightful hill top venue where you can sit and admire the view and have a picnic accompanied by a glass of wine all of which he provides. Our group of six were all British and so despite the rain and mist said we would still like to go up to the top of the hill. As he has to drive up a track and you have to walk the last bit to the summit he was a bit anxious about going but we braved it. Fortunately he had taken the precaution of having a locked trunk up there where he provided warm coats for us. Undeterred we sat there and ‘enjoyed’ our picnic as the mist suddenly came down!
After that adventure we returned home to enjoy a well deserved siesta or slept to get over our hangover – which ever you wish to believe. I struggled to wake up in time to go out for a very nice meal at a restaurant Luke was anxious to try out but was glad I managed it. Oh the trials of enjoying oneself.
Luke and I spent Saturday morning wandering around Napier and indulging in a little clothes shopping for me – an infrequent event for me as those of you who know me well would verify. After lunch at home with James we reluctantly ventured back down to town to join a walking tour of Napier that we had booked. However, the heavens opened just as it was about to set off so we decided to postpone it until tomorrow in the hopes that the weather might have improved.
For New Years eve we were invited to Ross and Roger’s house for a meal before going to some other of their friends to see the New Year in and to watch the firework display over the bay. The party was populated by British ex pats mainly medics and other health workers with those from New Zealand much in the minority. The news as we arrived was that the firework display had been cancelled because of the heavy rain but in the end the rain stopped around midnight and the display did go ahead to welcome in 2012.
Sunday 1st January 2012
HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone.
Well it wasn’t actually raining when Luke and I woke up – James does not emerge usually until midday anyway. We had left the car at Roger and Rosses last night so there was the little task of retrieving it. Whooppee it was fine so Luke and I set off and enjoy the walk – Napier has very steep hills everywhere so it turned out to be quite a healthy trek ie up lots of steep inclines – getting me in training for the forthcoming trek James has organised for us.
As the rain held off we were able to do the Art Deco tour in the afternoon which was fascinating. Volunteers from the Art Deco Trust showed us films, explained the history of the rebuilding of Napier following the 1931 earthquake and took us on a walking tour round the buildings explaining the various features of Art Deco. Just as we finished down came the rain again and was set in for the whole evening!
Friday 30th,Saturday 31stDec and Sunday 1st Jan 2012
Yesterday was the end of the dry weather – for the next two days it was to pour down – oh we never have weather like this for New Year everyone kept saying and Christmas was so nice and sunny. Well my Xmas and New Year were both to be under low cloud, mist and at times sheeting rain. So even travelling right across the world doesn’t guarantee you the sunshine! Ah and its New Years day and the rain has just started again – ugh – the only positive feature is that it delays me getting an outbreak of prickly heat which will inevitably happen once the sun comes out - we British have to remain positive don’t we?
Anyway to return to the activities of the last couple of days. Friday we were taken on a wine tour by Luke and James friend Ross. The gist of this is that we visited five different wineries where they let you taste a number of different wines in the hope that you will buy some bottles which of course we duly obliged and did so. Ross has constructed a delightful hill top venue where you can sit and admire the view and have a picnic accompanied by a glass of wine all of which he provides. Our group of six were all British and so despite the rain and mist said we would still like to go up to the top of the hill. As he has to drive up a track and you have to walk the last bit to the summit he was a bit anxious about going but we braved it. Fortunately he had taken the precaution of having a locked trunk up there where he provided warm coats for us. Undeterred we sat there and ‘enjoyed’ our picnic as the mist suddenly came down!
After that adventure we returned home to enjoy a well deserved siesta or slept to get over our hangover – which ever you wish to believe. I struggled to wake up in time to go out for a very nice meal at a restaurant Luke was anxious to try out but was glad I managed it. Oh the trials of enjoying oneself.
Luke and I spent Saturday morning wandering around Napier and indulging in a little clothes shopping for me – an infrequent event for me as those of you who know me well would verify. After lunch at home with James we reluctantly ventured back down to town to join a walking tour of Napier that we had booked. However, the heavens opened just as it was about to set off so we decided to postpone it until tomorrow in the hopes that the weather might have improved.
For New Years eve we were invited to Ross and Roger’s house for a meal before going to some other of their friends to see the New Year in and to watch the firework display over the bay. The party was populated by British ex pats mainly medics and other health workers with those from New Zealand much in the minority. The news as we arrived was that the firework display had been cancelled because of the heavy rain but in the end the rain stopped around midnight and the display did go ahead to welcome in 2012.
Sunday 1st January 2012
HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone.
Well it wasn’t actually raining when Luke and I woke up – James does not emerge usually until midday anyway. We had left the car at Roger and Rosses last night so there was the little task of retrieving it. Whooppee it was fine so Luke and I set off and enjoy the walk – Napier has very steep hills everywhere so it turned out to be quite a healthy trek ie up lots of steep inclines – getting me in training for the forthcoming trek James has organised for us.
As the rain held off we were able to do the Art Deco tour in the afternoon which was fascinating. Volunteers from the Art Deco Trust showed us films, explained the history of the rebuilding of Napier following the 1931 earthquake and took us on a walking tour round the buildings explaining the various features of Art Deco. Just as we finished down came the rain again and was set in for the whole evening!
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