I’m sat at my sister’s house in Auckland at the end of day 11 of our big trip. This is the first chance I’ve had to sit & reflect on the trip so far. In summary, this trip has already exceeded my expectations.
Days 1 to 4: Sydney staying at Mrs Grouch’s sister’s place. Loved the city & surroundings. We did the classic tourist stuff by walking round the Opera House & under the bridge. Real pinch yourself moments taking in the iconic views. We took a ferry out to Manly, met up with mates from Northumberland for lunch and played a round of golf at St. Michael’s Golf Club. I also squeezed in a tour of the Sydney Cricket Ground which was a real treat as they were preparing for the new year test match.
Day 5: Quick flight to Auckland on NYE in time for drinks with my sister and family.
Day 6: Golf at Remuera Golf Club
Day 7: Walk round Auckland, party at my sisters’s, late night,
Days 8 to 11: Waiheke Island. 4 days of stunning walking, visiting wineries (Mudbrick, Cable Bay & Batch), and generally gazing in awe at the beauty of the place. We had a cute Airbnb in Oneroa which is a perfect base for exploring the island by bus & foot. Those of you who have been know how magic this island is. I was sat in Obee’s bar this afternoon sipping another beer struggling to think of a time when life was this good. Didn’t want to get on the ferry…. we will be back there in a couple of years, but for now a quiet night before heading off to Coromandel Town, Whangamata & Taupo. Updates to follow……