Bens Big Adventure

Changing Times

2009-05-19T15:20:00.002+10:00

Things have changed quite dramatically for me here in Sydney. I managed to survive a redundnacy scare and a wild trip to tasmania and an attempted mugging. But the thing that was most important to me in my life has now gone. I am now single in Sydney.

So I am moving back into a shared house this weekend, the belongings are being split and then I will work towards the future. Who knows what it will bring and where it will take me.

It is perhaps the toughest time of my life - but I will get there.

I Forgot!!!!

2009-05-04T23:38:00.001+10:00

I am an uncle again. My sister had a little baby girl, Madeleine. I love being an uncle. If only they were a bit closer...

Update

2009-05-04T23:19:00.002+10:00

Right, it has been a while. A long while. And to be honest I can;t be bothered right now to do a full update. So I will do a brief run down of what has happened and then I guess the best way would be start it again. Hopefully keeping it up to date this time...

So what has been happening to me?

Well my parents came to visit. It was great. It was so good to see them. And they, like me, came to the conclusion that Australia is not New Zealand. Sounds obvious. But I feel there is something about this place that just isn't New Zealand. Its good here. Its great here. But it is not the place I feel totally at home. I think it is to big. Sydney is a fantastic city. And every time I see the opera house and the bridge I am in awe and I have a little wry smile on face. This is an amazing city, one of the best on the planet. Its iconic. But Auckland perhaps just offered me that little bit more....

So my parents enjoyed the trip (I hope). After all it was me (I hope) they really came to see.

What next...Christmas and New Year. For christmas Rach's mum came over. It was boozey, it was fun and I think the booze was a key factor in serving Christmas dinner at about midnight. Haha.

New Year was spent at Lunar Park. It was a dance party with a prime view of the fire works on the harbour. Super impressive. Truly amazing....

What next...The boat party. What better way to see the sights of the harbour city than from a boat. Colin, a colleague from work hired a boat for his birthday and we cruised the harbour, lapping up the sun and the sea, and numerous beverages. Then there was swimming off the boat and back for a few more bevvies to finish off the night. Primo.

Next was the GP in Melbourne - go Jenson. Very excited about this season. But then I am a bit nerdy about the Formula 1.

And then Tasmania....but that desrves its own entry.

Well, thats about it. Pretty much up to date.

Watch this space, I promise I will try to keep it more up to date.

Blue Mountains - October 2008

2008-10-21T17:08:00.002+11:00

After my folks had headed slightly further north and we had been back to Sydney, the following weekend it was time to meet up again. This time in the Blue Mountains.

The Blue Mountains are about an hour west of Sydney. It is essentially a large Sandstone plataeu, covered in native eucalypt bush. The eucalyptus trees, when the temperature rises give of vapour. This vapour causes the dispersion of the visible blue spectrum of the light more than the others so it gives the impression of a blue haze.

Anyway, my parents had rented a lovely little cottage in a village called Leura. The village is just down the road from the main civilisation of Katoomba.

The main attractions in the Blue Mountains is the scenery. And one of the most famous scenes of all is the Three Sisters. This is literally at the edge of Katommba. Three sandstone pillars, allegedly sisters in aboriginal folk lore, standing over looking the valley. I think the story continues along the lines of a wedding or something but I am not really sure. Personally I think the view from one of the other lookouts is much more impressive. I can;t remember the name of it right now, which is useful, but if I do I will update. Anyway, the view is just so much bigger. Wider expanse of the enourmous sandstone bush covered chasm. Amazing.

The Sunday was spent on the Zig Zag Railway. The Zig Zag Railway is an old section of track, in a zig-zag formation. It was once part of the main railway line out of Sydney heading West. The Blue Mountains were in the way, and seeing as they couldn't tunnel through them they had to up and down them. The zig-zag was built to lessen the gradient on the western side. On each leg of the trip down the zig-zag, the engine has to disconnect from the train, run round to the front (or back) and reconnect, pulling the train on the next downward leg. Make sense? It was quite a clever way of getting down a steep hill in a train. It is operated today by enthusiasts, and they mainly run old steam engines. I love the smell of the steam and coal and hot oil. Reminds me of days at Dorridge station when the special steam trains used to visit.

It was an interesting run, although a little short.

Then it was back to Sydney as my folks carried on down the coast to Kiama and the blowhole.

30

2008-10-21T17:06:00.002+11:00

I am now 30!!! Doesn't time fly when you are having fun!?! And to have made it here in one piece - amazing!!! Hehe.

Parental Visit - October 2008

2008-10-21T16:48:00.004+11:00

My parents are here to visit me!!! They landed on 4th October at Sydney airport after a stop over in Singapore. A little weary Rachel and myself met them at the airport (just - we got lost on the way) and whisked them off to our flat where they would stay for the first week.

I had the week off work so I could show them the sights of the city. We went to the Zoo and saw some antipodean wildlife (including a baby koala), Watsons Bay for the views of the city and the harbour and National Park for a spot of beach action and bush (countryside) viewing.

It was a very relaxing week. And it was finished off by a weekend trip to the Hunter Valley. The Hunter Valley is, believe it or not a valley for the Hunter River. Who'd have thought. Anyway, the important thing is that due to the soils and the climate it is a very good area for growing grapes that make wine. Excellent.

After a couple of hours drive north we navigated our way through the wineries and vineyards and found our cabin for the weekend. We were staying in a little self catering place in amongst the wineries. BBQ cooking for tea every day - it was fab.

The Saturday was the wine day. Dad kindly offered to be the taxi and Rachel, mum and myself set about tasting the wines. It was good fun and interesting. One of the Vinyards exported 70% of the wine it made to Tesco in the UK. would you believe it. You come all this way and Tesco down the road could have sold you the same wine at probably half the price. Never mind. The tour of the winery was very interesting and insightful.

At the end of the day we had navigated round several vineyards, bought (Rach and I) 18 bottles of wine, tried many more and joined a wine club. Some of the wine was fantastic. Really fantastic.

The Sunday was spent at the Hunter Valley Gardens. Then it was back to the cabin for a BBQ before Rach and I headed back to Sydney. the parents stayed Sunday night then headed slightly further north to the coast for a relaxing few days and some dolphin watching.

A Night at the Opera

2008-09-30T16:01:00.002+10:00

Rach's Dad and his girlfriend (Carleena) came to stay for the weekend. We thought it would be a good opportunity to catch a show at the Opera House. We went and saw a show called VAMP! It was a one woman show, with Meow Meow playing Vamp, and supported by a jazz/rag band.

Now would be the bit where I tell you what it is all about. However, I have no idea. It was based on some of the works/thoughts/stories of Oscar Wilde. So it had a Femme Fatale character who swung from the ceiling and danced around in various states of undress, and that was about it really...

It was good, donlt get me wrong. Meow Meow (stupid name if you ask me) was certainly talented and good at what she did and the audience were certianly engaged. Although Rach's dad and Carleena did fall asleep part way through.

Would I go again? To the Opera House - yes. To see Meow Meow - probably not.

Cockatoo Island - August 08

2008-09-12T12:49:00.004+10:00

Cockatoo Island is the largest island within Sydney Harbour. It is located on the inland side of the bridge, a short ferry ride from Circular Quay in the centre of town. It was formerly a prison and most recently it was the site of one of Australia's biggest shipyards but that closed down in 1992. Now it is a derelict mass of dock yard buildings and cranes. The ideal place for an art exhibition then, obviously.

So on a stunning Sydney winters day (wall to wall blue sky, not a cloud in site) we hopped on a ferry and cruised across to the island to have a look at the wonderful art.

The sign says it all really...

Hmmmm, most of it I have to say was a big pile of crap. Maybe I am just not quite as in touch with my arty side as I think, but I seemed to get bored very quickly indeed. The exhibits were spread out in different rooms across the island. The favoured medium seemed to be film. OK so there were some things that were quite good but on the whole it was pretty rubbish.

It was good however to have a picnic, and some wine, in the sun, in the middle of the harbour. And the island itself, with the remnants of the ship building days was pretty impressive.

All in all a nice day out.

Zoo

2008-07-11T16:09:00.003+10:00

My work has a free pass to Taronga Zoo in Sydney. Amazing place of real estate on the North Shore giving the animals a view of one of the best city scapes in the world.

But i wasn't there for the view. I was there to see possibly THE coolest animal in the world - a Koala!!!

Not So Summer Bay

2008-06-17T16:55:00.005+10:00

It was the long weekend to celebrate the Queens birthday (ironic??? - i wonder will happen if Australia leaves the Commonwealth. There is already an Australia Day and i can hardly see them removing a public holiday from the masses) so we made use of the new motor to head north to 'Summer Bay'.

Actually the place we were headed was Palm Beach in the north of the northern suburbs of Sydney at the mouth of the Hawkesbury River. Its the setting for the fictional town of Summer Bay in Home and Away. Unfortunately, with rain and a slight chill in the air, Summer Bay was far from summery. Ah well. Fun was still to be had.

The 'Bay' is actually a spit of land with a Pacific Ocean beach on one side and a sheltered inlet/harbour beach on the other. It is actually a beautiful place. the sheltered waters of the Hawkesbury River are just stunning.

Even though the weather was not ideal we did manage to climb 'Stewart Point' to the lighthouse. From there we could see Palm Beach in all its glory. It didn't last long however as the rain soon came in.

After a quick stop at the surf club (and really lame touristy photos - but i guess it has to be done) it was back to the warmth of the accommodation to dry out and sort dinner.

Sadly we didn't bump into Alf, or any flamin galahs for that matter. There were a few hoons though.

Foo Fighters - 3rd May 2008

2008-05-06T20:30:00.004+10:00

Amazing. Best gig I have ever been too. The Foo Fighters came to town on the world tour for their new album Echos, Silence, Patient, Grace. After missing out on tickets a quick scout of eBay got me some general admission tickets for the saturday night.

To say I was excited was an understatement. And a little bit of research found us the best place to stand. Off we went to the Acer Arena in Sydney Olympic Park.

It was awesome. It absolutely rocked. Kicking off with Let It Die and going straight into The Pretender. Amazing. It was a mix of old school with new school. It was crazy to think that some of the songs they played like Alone + Easy Target and Big Me are 13 years old!!! Some of the crowd were young, very young when these songs came out. Not sure whether to feel amazed or gutted at the realisation of how old I am! Anyway, after a rockin start it was brought back many levels to an acoustic set on the secondary stage. Thats where we were. It was amazing. And finished off with, in my opinion, the best song ever written. Everlong rocked. Totally rocked. But with Dave Grohl saying 'I'm not done yet!' you know its gonna be big! Monkey Wrench and All My Life followed before the break. Epic!!!

After a comedy interlude with a video of Dave and Taylor 'discussing' how many encore songs would be performed, back they came. And it rocked. Finishing on the Best Of You it was just amazing. The highlights? Well all of it. But the stand outs were Everlong, with Dave doing a solo effort until the last verse, Taylors drum solo on Stacked Actors, it was simply insane, and then there was the old school Alone + Easy Target, but the highlight I think was Hey! Jonny Park in the encore. Never expected that. Amazing!

Best gig i have ever been to.

The Foo Fighters rock!!! Fact!

Blue Mountains - Work not Play

2008-04-15T10:53:00.003+10:00

Just had a week in the Blue Mountains with work. Its a toughy but someone has to do it I guess...haha.

Those Wonderful Men In Their Flying Machines...Red Bull Flugtag

2008-04-15T10:47:00.007+10:00

Crazy madness gripped Sydney as the Red Bull flugtag came to town. Man made, man powered flying machines of all shapes and sizes (seriously, when I say all shapes I mean all shapes - from hot dogs, to hang gliders, flip-flops to rockets) flung themselves of a 6m high ramp into the waters of Sydney Harbour.

Its a simple concept really. You design a flying machine and then drag it to the top of the ramp. do a little performance to please the crowd and the judges then see how far you can fly.

The Dragon from the Neverending Story (whatever his name is) did quite well.

Plans are already in the works for taking it on next year!!!

Road Runner on his famous ACME rocket was a complete failure.

Mr Bean also failed spectacularly!!! Minis can't fly - who'd have thought...

The Melbourne Grand Prix

2008-03-19T15:36:00.007+11:00

This weekend it was the start of the 2008 Formula 1 Season. Rachel and myself headed down to meet up with Stu and catch some of the action.

We flew into Avalon airport which is basically in Geelong not Melbourne, but Stu came to pick us up in his mean machine and we were soon having a guided tour of the streets of Melbourne in the dark. Then it was off out to grab a few beers and plan our day at Albert Park.

Melbourne was hot. Very hot. The mercury had been pushing 40 degrees C for a few days down here and today was fairly similar. We had tickets for the qualifying day. It also had V8 super car racing, and some other racing and shows including stunt motorbikes, classic car racing and aerial displays. We found a suitable spot and kicked back to watch the action. The noise of racing cars zooming round the track is pretty loud. The noise of an F1 car gunning round at full pelt is something else. High pitched, ear shattering noise. Ear plugs were definitely required.

There was actually very little drama. I thought the lack of traction control would throw in a few fun and games. Kimi suffered a fuel problem which put him down the grid and Lewis was pressured by the BMW's but all went to plan and Lewis got his pole.

Mark Webber being chased by some crappy driver called Lewis...

The F1 cars were very very cool. But i have to say, perhaps the coolest thing was the display put on by the F18 Hornets of the RAAF. Truly, truly phenomenal machines. Saying that though, seeing the F1 cars heading into the corners at breakneck speed is awesome. It really is lost on TV. To fully appreciate it, and I guess to see why the drivers earn the big bucks, you have to see it live and in the flesh. It's just incredible.

Anyway, after a day in the sun it was off to find a bar and to sip some cold beers. They actually serve pints in Melbourne which is nice. Schooners are the order of the day in Sydney, grrrr. The bar we went to was on the river opposite Flinders Street Station (the old orange building you see lots of photos of). They had a pretty cool folky acoustic band playing so it was nice to chill out and relax. Then it was back to Stu's house, grab a shower and head out for some food.

Rachel wasn't feeling to good (too much beer in the sun I think) so she headed home early and me and Stu headed into town to meet up with his housemates for a few more beers. We ended up in a very random bar on a roof top. It was decked out like a quaint little cottage garden with AstroTurf grass throughout and garden chairs. Very odd. But cool. Then it was back towards Stu's house, stopping at a bar or two en route.

Sunday we headed into town and got the free tourist tram round the CBD. A quick stop at the markets, which were dead, and we headed to St Kilda for a beer and to watch the race. It was hot. Very hot. The most noticeable thing was the fact that the wind was also hot. Pretty gross. But it was at least a dry heat, not the mugginess you get in Sydney.

Weeeeeeeeeell Done!!! Rach and Stu looking, errrr, hot???

It was a fab weekend. Melbourne is an amazing city. And although we were only there briefly, it was a brilliant time. Definitely having a return trip sometime and DEFINITELY going back to see the F1. Awesome. Truly awesome.

The House

2008-03-10T15:07:00.005+11:00

So we have moved into the new house last Monday. Its a 2 bedroom, second floor flat in Edgecliff. Wooden floors throughout, a tasteful (???) bathroom and a bling kitchen with stainless steel gas appliances. Heaven. It also has a super sunny balcony out the front with glimpses of the city skyline.

After a couple of trips to Ikea and other furniture outlets, as well as begging and scrounging furniture of friends and work mates we are well on the way to getting back to something of a normal life.

There have been a couple of dramas though. Being locked out TWICE, and the electrics being a little dodgy. Oh and there is also the ongoing battle with the former landlord. Hopefully this will all be resolved soon enough and the idiot will get his just deserves I am sure.

New House

2008-02-27T15:42:00.001+11:00

A new house has been found. A funky little two bed flat in Edgecliff!!! Such a relief the hunt is over. Now the drama is to furnish it!!!

Move in Monday....Photos to follow!!!

Eviction

2008-02-13T19:06:00.002+11:00

Rachel and I have been asked ot move out of our current house. We live in Bondi, on Ocean Street in a shared property. One chap holds the lease and we sub-let off him. It is a nice place. Situated halfway between the beach and the main transport hub. Ideal.

Trouble is the guy we rent from, Nick, is a complete and utter dickhead!!! Racist, aggressive, untrustworthy to name but a few of his outstanding qualities. He has given us 2 weeks notice. We were looking to move anyway, but now the pressure is on. There is a rental crisis in Sydney, well the desirable eastern suburbs anyway. We are struggling to find a place. Its a bit of a bugger. But at least we will be away from the most idiotic man i have ever met.

Wheteher we get out bond back will be a totally different matter. We shall see. So, if anyone knows of a room to rent or a house to rent in Sydney let me know. Oh and also, if anyone knows what a 'life coach' is i would be interested to hear. Thats what said dickhead does for a 'living'. Hmmmmm.....

New Year - Sydney 07/08!!!

2008-01-10T14:48:00.000+11:00

After the Christmas shenanigans Kate joined the party from over in Auckland. Grand plans were afoot to see all kinds of wonderful things in and around Sydney. However it seemed that the drinking got in the way a little and most of the time was spent in a hungover haze.

We did however manage to go to the beach, swim in the surf (me and Stu anyway as Rach and Kate were too scared) and get stung by jellyfish (Rach and Kate did but me and Stu escaped - probably because we were swimming, not fannying around in the shallows), and visit the city centre for views of the opera house and the bridge. Both still absolutely amaze me. I don't think I would ever get bored of seeing them. The bridge is huge and the opera house is just stunning.

The plans for new year were to go to Mrs Macquaries Park and watch the fireworks over the harbour. Lots of people had recommended it. And we were advised to go early. Also there was a minor draw back in that no alcohol was allowed to be taken into the park site. However after an ingenious suggestion from Stu, we managed to sneak a couple of bottles of 'water' into the site with our picnic along with a vodka fuelled water melon.

All the best laid plans go to waste, and true to form the early start somehow evaded us once again. Nothing to do with the night before of course!!!! Anyway, we reached the park and were dismayed by the ENORMOUS queue of people that were waiting to go in. Hundreds of them. And thoughts of missing out completely were running through our minds. However there was no need to panic. We joined the back of the line and set about entertaining ourselves as we waited. An hour later and after several lame eye spy games we successfully negotiated the bag searches for booze and we were in. We just had to find a spot in the park now. There were about 9,000 people in the park when we got in, with a total reported capacity of 22,000. Not sure where they would all go as it was already pretty busy with the best viewing spots gone.

We set up camp (on the third attempt having changed our minds previous - grrrr) beneath a big tree to give us some shade. Much needed shade. It was a blazing sunny day.

We unpacked the food, ate a little, played a few games and drank. The bars opened at 3pm and wine and beer was the order of the day, along with our 'water' we smuggled in that tasted remarkably like gin. Hmmmmm, weird. Anyway, we ate, drank and became merry.

There was a 9pm family firework show. Then the main event at midnight. We needed to find a good spot so we could see the bridge which was to be the focal point of the fireworks display. We loaded up with rations (wine) and set out to commandeer a position much to the disgust of a few other people who had apparently come to Australia just for the fireworks and were not going to have us ruin it for them. Claiming complete ignorance and ignoring them seemed to do the trick and as the count down to midnight began all seemed forgotten. A big illuminated egg timer on the bridge let the masses know 2008 was upon us.

And WOW!!! What a show!!! I have never seen fireworks quite like it. This is how to spend 1 million dollars in 12 minutes in perhaps the most spectacular way possible. It was truly, truly amazing. And the white water fall from the bridge was just incredible.

It was then back to our picnic spot to attempt to drunkenly text everyone in my phone book happy new year from Sydney. Most apparently didn't work, thankfully for the sake of my phone bill, but i did end up ringing a few folk. Well done me!!!!

Then it was time to pack up and make our way back home to bed. What a fab new year it was.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!

Christmas in Sydney

2008-01-08T21:53:00.001+11:00

Being on this side of the world it was to be another orphan christmas. My third now. This time I was joined by Rachel and Stu (who was up from Melbourne).

Stu's arrival marked the start of the christmas holiday proper. Fun and frolics were the name of the game and all the best laid plans seemed to end up in a bar drinking either beer or gin. NO biggy really. Haha. We had trips the Manly, the Powerhouse museum (rubbish don't bother going), Bondi, Coogee, the coastal walk and also several trips to the bottle shop (yikes thats very Oz of me, I mean the offie) and which ever pub was nearest.

It was a fab time. And most days included a beach trip or two. And on more than one occasion the surf was, errrrr, big. Still within my comfort zone but I sure would not have liked to be a life guard.

Anyway, on with christmas. After a mammoth trip to get booze and food we were set. It was to be a roast chicken (turkeys were somewhat rare in this neck of the woods) with all the trimmings. Rachel wanted yorkshire puddings (random) and we tried to convince her it was a beef thing but she was having none of it. But then what would she know being a kiwi and all.

So it kicked off with christmas eve. Drinks and then a few more and a few more. Bed by sometime or other in the early hours. Drunk. For a change. Because (this bit is for my mum) i never get drunk see.

Slightly worse for wear christmas morning was upon us. Present present every where. But first things first. Champagne was opened and bacon buttied were cooked on the BBQ. Then it was present time. Woohoo!!!! Thanks to everyone for the cards and prezzies by the way.

Then, sporting a fab Fat Willies vest from my parents it was on with the drinking. Nick and Nikki (house mates) went off for food at a mates house and Stu and myself set about prepping our food while Rach set about pickling her liver with gin. It was food all the way, intermingled with highly intelligent games of scrabble and draughts and card and drink your drink and all manner of silly games. Sadly the weather deserted us on christmas day. It was cloudly. Grrrrr. We decided to pass on the beach, and chilled in the back garden.

Dinner time. Drink time. Food was fab, even if I do say so myself. But sadly the yorkies were rubbish. I blame the oven. Anyway. It was a fab day. Totally fab.

Boxing day gave us the sun that had deserted us the day before. It was off to watch the start of the Sydeny to Hobart boat race at the Gap, a look out that is notorious for suicides as the shear cliffs make a great jump spot, and then onto the pub at Watsons Bay for a sunset view over the city before a dip in the surf at Bondi. Fab day.

Things were however going to get even more messy.... Kate was arriving from NZ to see in the New Year Sydeny style. Bring it on!!!!

The Final MO!!!

2007-12-11T19:37:00.000+11:00

I did it. I grew a Mo for the month of November. All for charity. I raised over $300 in the process, so thanks to all who sponsored me. The event was celebrated by a free Movember Gala at Luna Park on the harbour. Its a sort of fun fair I guess. Good fun night, but very very odd noticing every bloke, and even some girls had moustaches!!!!

Anyway, here is my effort....

More from Sydney

2007-11-20T11:46:00.000+11:00

Not a lot has been going on really since I got here. The major concern was the lack of a house to live in. It seems there is a bit of a rental crisis in Sydney at the moment. Well that's not strictly true. There is plenty of accommodation, its just that a lot of it is in somewhat undesirable areas. Anyway, Bondi and the surrounding area was the main focus of the search. And the fact that every bugger and his dog pretty much wants to live in Bondi doesn't help. And a lot are damned backpacker types who rent the places for 3 months, sleeping 10 to a bed to save funds and then cruise off to their next destination. Some of the viewings were not even worth bothering with after you see the queue of 20-30 people outside the house looking for one room.

So after a mix of motels and weird hippy new age writer woman, there is now a roof over my head. Well, not quite yet, but on the weekend there will be. Its a 4 bed place, 2 bath, and home brewery, nice back garden and a wicked BBQ. Oh and its 10 minutes from Bondi Beach!!! AWESOME!!! TOTALLY AWESOME!!! Pictures will follow.

Aside from that I have been unbelievably busy at work. Which is good. But it hasn't really left much time for anything else. But that will change having got a house now. The stress has cleared.

Mo - 10 days to go

2007-11-20T11:35:00.000+11:00

Mo Update

2007-11-13T12:07:00.000+11:00

Its been nearly 2 weeks now......

Movember

2007-11-02T10:14:00.000+11:00

This month is Movember. Yes thats right. It is not a typo. MOvember. I have become a 'Mo Bro' for the month, and starting from clean shaven, will be growing a mo for 1 month. I shall be asking for sponsorship for this, and all monies go to charities that deal with male health issues. MOstly (hahah that was actually a typo but I will leave it in the spirit of the month) prostate cancer and depression.

A good cause I think you will all agree. So show me the moneeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeey!!!! Please.

Sydney - Oct 2007

2007-10-29T21:08:00.000+11:00

I'm in Sydney. It Rocks. I love it. First impressions.... it is spectacular. The only other place that has grabbed me right off was San Fran. And Sydney is right up there. Seeing the bridge and opera house just made it all real. The bridge is HOOOOOOOGE!!! And the opera house is spectacular. I think i am going to enjoy living here. Haha, I live here. I LIVE here. Awesome!!!

Just need to find a house now. Anyway.... a few pics to start things off.

Awesome!!!

Rugby - The World Cup Final

2007-10-25T12:36:00.001+10:00

One word - Gutted!!!

But fair play to the boys. Against all odds they made it to the final. And for fear of sounding like an All Black supporter (or team member for that matter), IT SO WAS A TRY!!!

Anyway, early morning drinking is always a laugh. And the whole thing was done in very good spirit. And having started at 7am with just a single piece of toast in me, I apparently left the pub at lunch time. I blame the sambuca shots at 10am. Hmmmmmm.

Just don't tell my mum...

Pissed - well done me!

Rangitoto

2007-10-25T11:43:00.000+10:00

So as I am leaving NZ I thought I had better get around to ticking a few of the things I always meant to do off the list. One of them was to climb Rangitoto.

Rangitoto is the most recent volcono to have erupted in the Auckland Volcanic Field. It sits out in the Hauraki Gulf watching over the city, and can be viewed from most places. To keep the nerd level down to a minimum I shall only give you a few facts. It is between 600 - 700 years old. It was formed over a series of eruptions over anywhere between a 10 yr and a 100 yr period. It is not going to erupt again (like all the volcanoes in the area) and the name means 'Blood Sky' in Maori. But thats enough of the boring stuff.

With Becky up in Auckland en-route to Seattle it was an ideal time to visit. And the weather was spot on too. So after a lie in and recovery from the night before Becky, Rachel and myself headed for the ferry.

After the dissapointment of Becky not being sea sick on the the way we headed off to catch the tractor to the top. Yes, yes, i know I said I wanted to climb it, but time was against us and to be frank, I really couldn't be arsed doing it under my own steam!!! And besides, it was a guided tour. the driver did a very good job if keeping us not very well informed. Ah well, it allowed time for a power nap to cure the hangover.

The tractor doesn't actually go all the way to the top. There is a 15 minute board walk right to the summit. But the views from the top are superb. Over to Waiheke and the Coramandel beyond, the North Shore, and of course the city itself.

Rotorua - 21st-23rd September

2007-10-01T11:21:00.000+10:00

A few mates were down in Rotorua for work purposes so it was a good opportunity to catch up for a weekend of fun and frolics. Bailing from work early on friday, Tracey and myself made a dash for the vegas and made it in time for dinner. Curry. And a superb curry at that - very rare for New Zealand. It was to set a theme for the weekend though. Not an indian theme - that would be odd, but one of excesses I think. Waaaaaaay to much food, drink and heaps and heaps of fun. Time was limited so my aim was to reduce faff to a minimum. Hmmmm easier said than done.

Saturday was an early start. Nursing a slight hangover we grabbed breakfast and planned the day. Zorbing was on the menu but we decided that we should perhaps let the breakfast go down, and let the hangover clear first!!! First port of call was gokarts, mini golf and segways. Segways are those weird two wheel things that always stay upright. They are perhaps the coolest thing ever!!!! I want one. Surprisingly easy to master (although I made a good job of crashing one). I think they are the future of inner city commuting.

Next stop was the luge. Three wheeled tea trays zooming down a concrete track. Superb. Such good fun although Darren employed some Schumacher dirty tactics to gain a so called victory by running me off the road. Shorts and t-shirt, concrete and travelling at speeds of 40kph don't mix especially well. Great fun though. Then it was off to the Zorb!!!

For those that don't know, a Zorb is a large inflatable ball, which you then climb inside of and get rolled down a hill. A sport born a bred in New Zealand. After a brief safety chat (hahaha as if I was paying attention) we caught the shuttle to the top. I was in a duel Zorb with Becky. And a wet one at that. The most worrying part for me was getting in the thing. The hole is tiny. And you literally have to dive head first through it to land in the Zorb. I had visions of me missing and landing in a heap!!! Haha. Thankfully my aim was spot on and I landed in a nice pool of warm water. Becky followed and we were zipped up and were ready to go. Three taps on the side and we and we had to walk forward. What happened next was all a bit of a blur of somersaults, limbs, water and shrieks of fun. Brilliant. Your orientation becomes completely shot and tumble down the hill trying to gain some form of control. Keeping upright is impossible.

Soon it was over - I think we were only in there for 30 odd seconds, but it seemed like ages. And it was SO much fun. From the outside it does look like not much. I was a little dubious. But inside the thing it is just chaos and hilarity. I would totally TOTALLY recommend it to anyone.

Our 'extreme' day was finished by some pub grub and a very chilled dip in the hot pools in town. Then it was out for drinks and more food. More food than you could possible imagine.

The Sunday was spent doing the geothermal stuff. This stuff totally fascinates me and I am sure I have been on about on here before so I won't waste much time now. To sum it up, it smells of rotten eggs, has loads of pretty colours and steams and gloops a lot.

Snow Patrol

2007-09-27T12:32:00.000+10:00

Snow Patrol came to Auckland and played at the Vector Arena. I went. It was AWESOME. One thing that struck me was the band seemed genuinely pleased to be performing their songs. Especially the sing along classics like Run and Chasing Cars. Awesome.

Sydney

2007-09-17T19:57:00.001+10:00

The big news is that I have decided to move to Sydney. Yes I am waving goodbye to the land of the long white cloud. It was a tough call, for a whole host of reasons, but career wise it is a must. To progress in anything like the direction I want I have to move. Watch this space as the next chapters of my antipodean adventure are written.

Around Auckland - West Coast Beaches

2007-09-17T19:17:00.000+10:00

It was a bright but chilly Sunday so we decided to hit the west coast for a bit of rugged beach action. The west is dominated by volcanic formations and black sand making the whole place seem pretty bleak and desolate. Its only 30 minutes from my house too. Its amazing how the country can change from east to west in such a small space.

Cassandra - my niece

2007-08-05T14:58:00.000+10:00

I had met her before when Bethan and Pete (and Cassandra) came to see me in New Zealand in March. But now Cassandra has grown quite considerably. And I have to say, she is fab.

Stu, Kate and Al's Leaving and a goodbye to the mighty 'diff- 21st July 2007

2007-07-30T13:50:00.000+10:00

Stu is off to Melbourne to do contaminy type stuff with Golders, Kate is coming to Akld to make people better and Al is off to Alaska to top up her tan. No wait thats wrong, get frost bite doing more contaminy type stuff.

The classic Miss Thomas pose

To celebrate the off a small gathering was had at O'Neills in Cardiff. I was fortunate enough to attend having extended my stay in UK. There was booze and boogying and the three couldn't possibly leave without the traditional dirty pint.... Nothing to do with me I promise!

It was touch and go as to whether I would get there though. Flood mayhem had gripped the south west of the UK. The M5 was flooded and I reckon I made it through with 20 minutes to spare before it was inpassable. And the M50, I could have actually paddled down it!!!! It took me just shy of 5 hours to get from my good friends Matt and Kates house in Brum to Cardiff. It is normally easily doable in 2 hours. Anyway...

Back to the dirty pint topic, it needs to be noted and put on record that Stu was beaten by his Mrs (Kate) - hahahaha, will he ever live it down I wonder? Saying that though Kate was passed out on the table at the end of the night and Stu was still standing!!! Following O'Neills we headed to Lloyds bar.

Stu and his magic flaming beard

It was to be my last big night in the UK for a while too. Although thankfully I had already had my goodbye filth two years previous. It was a fine way to see them off, especially Stu and Al who, over my Cardiff career I have shared houses with. An experience Al will forever have etched (burned) in her memory i'm sure - haha.

I think a good night was had by all, and for me it was almost perfect. I heard on the radio once that those that don't love Cardiff have never been. Too true innit butt. Fablass. It was with a lump in the throat and a tear in the eye that I drove through Cathays and onto the A48 and headed north.

In the words of Arnie - I'll be back. When though - thats the question...

Royal Engineers Regimental Summer Ball - 13th July 2007

2007-07-27T12:35:00.000+10:00

It was that time of year again for Cacketts summer ball. This time the event was to be held in Monmouth where James is based. The barracks are at Monmouth Castle. Each year the ball acts as a get sort of reunion of the old gang from earth sciences at uni. And more often than not they are somewhat of a drunkard affair.

Pi and Sian where up from London and Stu from Cardiff (via brum). We met at James' and Nats flat in downtown Monmouth, then headed to the barracks to get ready. Sadly the weather didn't make the ball feel particularly summery - it was a bit damp to say the least (probably the fact it was Friday 13th had something to do with it). It did hold off enough to enable a quick dash across the parade ground the dodgems though. After all what would an army ball be without the dodgems.

Stu is expecting the call from McClaren any day now...Lewis is bricking it.

Dinner was served followed by a ceili in the officers mess and a disco in the squaddies mess. Irish jigging didn't really appeal so to the bar it was. Then to the dodgems, then to the bar, then the the dodgems - you get the picture.

This man defends the Empire - worrying

Come 3am breakfast was served, so G&T in hand we headed off for a fry up before passing out.

Saturday dawnwed and hangovers were cleared with (another) fry up at Weatherspoons in Monmouth. Then it was off to the Gower via Cardiff for a nights camping at Llangennydd. There was a slight worry that people may not find the campsite due to none of us really being locals to the Gower. But it was ok because after superb directions form myself and Stu confidence was high amongst the troops that we would all make it.

Well everyone else made it apart from Stu and I. One missed turn, and a lot of 'I don't remember this bit' we arrived a couple of hours after everyone else who made it first time! Ah well.

Whilst the others in the party (some of James' other mates) sat round drinking tea and eating scones, Stu and myself set to work in getting trollied. Out came the beer. Then it was off to the beach to play frisbee and fly a kite. The wind was too light for the kite and after we lost the frisbee in the water we headed back to camp and on to the pub for food and beer. At closing it was back to the dunes, beer coat on to put the world to rights.

In a bold time saving iniciative Stu and myself had decided to for go the tent pitching when we arrived in the day light to allow maximum beer and beach time (and to make the most of the sun - which was rare this summer). It was now 2.30am and we were drunk, with no torch trying to pitch our tent in the dark. Classic. Midly entertaining. Thankfully being camping (and drinking pros) we managed it and collapsed into a coma. Then it rained. And rained some more. And that was it for the rest of the weekend really - wet.

All things considered I had a good weekend. It was what I needed at the time. Thanks to James for the invite, and to Sian, Pi and Stu for making it another classic.

Claires Wedding - 6th July Knowle Church

2007-07-17T01:37:00.000+10:00

It was time for another wedding. This time it was Claires tuen. She was marrying Ian. They have been together since Uni so guess it was about bloody time they tied the knot!!! The ceremony was in in Knowle Church with the reception just up the road at Hogarths.

Claire and Ian

Everyone was a bit nervous about the weather seeing as it had been shocking for the past few days (read weeks). But when the time was right it came good with just the occasional shower to dampen things.

After a warm up pint in the Red Lion we went to the church. The ceremony was nice. Then it was back to the pub for another warm up pint. Then we hit the reception. We were greeted by Champagne. Nice. Then some more champagne, then a free bar. Well it would be rude not to really....

Rumours were circulating that the bar was only free until dinner at 5pm. So we had to make the most of it. However in the beery haze we made a slight error of judgement. Rather than stacking the pints on our table it seemed double parking was not allowed - so down the hatch it went. I for one was pretty battered by dinner!!! Nice.

The drinking was combined with a game of croquet on the lawn. Fabulous. Such fun - although I did shockingly badly. Although I am sure there was some dodgy tactics going on and it had nothing to do with the beer and champagne!!! I came last!!!

The croquet battle

They had a quiz on each dinner table to get the cogs whirring. Mentally Challenged as we were known (back to the old pub quiz days) played a blinder and won!!! Ok so we had a little help from Jenna and my folks on the end of a few txts but hey - we just saw it as using all available resources!!! The prize - more champagne!!! Just what we (didn't) need!!!

The gang

Food came, and went, then it was disco time!!! Cheese-o-rama into the small hours. Fire works at night fall too. Fantastic day topped off with a late night curry on the way home!!! Hehe. Oh and there seemed to be some discussion amongst the 'older' members of the group about approaching the big three-O. Something epic has to be done to celebrate. Well Daves suggestion of the 30 highest mountains in the world before we are 30 is errr, an interesting one - we'll put it down to the booze I think. But we settled on Kilimanjaro. The highest peak in Africa. There we go - its on record!!! I'm game.

errr, yes.. ROCK AND ROLL!!!

Granny

2007-07-10T00:36:00.000+10:00

My Gran passed away just before Christmas. I couldn't make it to the funeral because I was in New Zealand. We decided to delay the spreading of the ashes until i was back in the UK. My Gran wanted her ashes spread by the rocks at the summit of Caer Caradoc near the Shropshire/Welsh borders.

The view was stunning. It was a nice day and a nice way to say goodbye...

Hannahs Wedding - 16th June 2007

2007-07-05T23:54:00.000+10:00

It was Hannahs wedding to her man Steve, so the venture lot all got together to attend. Cracking day in Bishops Tachbrook for the ceremony - the weather came good just at the right time. Then it was on to the Glebe Hotel in Barford to celebrate into the wee small hours.

Hannah and Steve - the happy couple

The venture lot

Steve Clews clearly happy at the vast mount of single girls Hannah had invited to the wedding

Claire - all class this girl

Back to the UK - part 1

2007-06-25T00:31:00.000+10:00

It had been 2 years to almost the day since I had been back to the UK. And seeing as its such a flippin' long way awa, the fact I had a couple of weddings to cram in, as well as spreading m Grans ashes and various mates to catch up with I decided to make it a 6 week marathon!!!

The flight was long - and thats about all i have to say about that. Apart from somehow I managed to bring 30kg of stuff with me - in one bag!!! AND not get charged excess baggage!!! Wow!!! Anyway...

I arrived on a muggy hot afternoon in London and made for the Pi and Sians house, who kindly put me up for the night amongst the boxes and packaging following their recent move. Tufnell Park - nice area. And it wasn't long before we were off to the pub to sample some real beer. Then it was off to dinner and for me bed - I was shattered after the journey.

Sunday dawned and we were off to Hampstead Heath for a walk and a pub lunch in the sun. Fab. The UK hadn't seemed to have changed much. After a good chin wag I was on the train up to Leicester to see my folks. It was a suprise visit as I had arrived a day early!!!

Plans were then made to head to Cardiff.

I stayed at Tim and Ruths house. It was awesome to catch up with them, and everyone. It was like I had never been away!!! Everyone met at the Pen and Wig. It was a fab night!!!

Owen and Tits

The following day was spent recovering and then prepping for a BBQ.

Owen a little drunk and well done Hudman!!! Nice pants in both cases.

Fun and games ensued at the BBQ culminating in and incident involving cold spray, testicles and a video camera. Well done Stu!!!

It was a top weekend.

I then stayed with Jenna for a few days. It was amazing to see her agian. She has just bought a house so there were few things to be done - starting with the garden.

Marsay

2007-05-28T21:12:00.000+10:00

My mate Becky came to stay for the weekend. I used to work with Becky at MWH in Cardiff and she moved to MWH in Nelson about 6 months before came here. Anyway, it was Becky's first proper trip to Auckland so we did the touristy thing.

Kelly Tarltons was the first stop. It is an aquarium and arctic centre. They had penguins in a big snow room. You had to ride a snow cat to go through. Penguins are cool.

This isn't a penguin - its a pyranha!

Then it was onto the aquarium. Stingrays were the main attraction. And it was feeding time when we got there. A lot of effort was put in by the staff to dispell any tales about stingrays in the wake of Steve Irwins death. It was a good show.

Following Kelly Tarltons we heading for the Sky Tower - the tallest tower in the southern hemisphere. It was touch and go whether we would go up as the weather was being typically aucklandish. Raining. But at the last minute it cleared and we made a dash for the summit. Ok so we couldn't see the full 85km claimed visibility but the view, as always, was stunning.

Then it was down to the casino to waste Beckys hard earned cash on the 'pokies'. Why is the person next to you always seems to win?

The it was dinner time at perhaps one of the best restaurants in Auckland. Mai Thai is a fabulous thai place. Then it was to the pub to watch Wales narrowly lose to the Aussies and England get spanked by the Saffas.

Tom, Bryce and me in the pub - suprise suprise!!!

Burglary

2007-05-08T12:38:00.000+10:00

My house got broken into last week. Annoyance. The most annoying thing though is the pinching of my paddling kit. Yeah I know I can't paddle for a while (or at all in some peoples eyes) but it is still mighty annoying. Thankfully nothing of great sentimental value was taken, its just the hassle of it all.

News on the Shoulder

2007-04-23T14:01:00.000+10:00

Had an ultrasound scan on my shoulder this morning. I have a 'small focus of abnormality involving the left distal supraspinatus tendon.' Which i am told means I have a 'partial thickness articular surface tear.'

Which in english means I have 6 weeks of physio to look forward too and no paddling for 3 months!!!

Fuljames - Easter Weekend

2007-04-19T14:27:00.000+10:00

Easter was spent at the famous Fuljames wave in Taupo. It is on the Waikato River, which due to its numerous hydro schemes has hugely variable flow. In order for the wave to work the flow has to be up around 200 cumecs. This happens daily during the week as this is when the businesses in the area need power. Weekends however the flow is just a low base flow. However, thanks to some excellent work and pleading by Nicki we had a 2 days of FULL flow all to ourselves over Easter. We even got granted permission from the local Iwi to camp right above the wave. It was a 30 second walk down some steps to the eddy and some natural hotpools. AWESOME!!!

However there was a problem. The week before, paddling the Kaituna, I buggered my shoulder. However, I was not going to miss out on a rare occasion of paddling the Fuljames wave. It was the site of the first freestyle world champs after all. The wave is pretty sweet. I also deliberately didn't seek medical advice on my shoulder post Kaituna so that i wouldn't be going against any advice this weekend. Of course the Dr's would tell me not to paddle, but then if they never told me, I would be guilt free. Ignorance is bliss.

After hearty breakfast of beans and a few cups of coffee to clear the hangover from the night before, and a dose of ibuprofen for the shoulder, we kitted up and went for a short float down the river above the wave whilst we waited for the flow to optimise.

It was very, very, VERY boily (Bitches boily), which provided endless entertainment in a tiny playboat. Then we hit the wave. The first run down was just a blast through. Then it was to the eddy and onto (hopefully) to rip it up pulling some really sick moves. Well that was the plan. I think I am now world class at mystery move no's 1 through 5!!!

Sadly my rides were relatively short lived. I simply could not take the pain in my shoulder. Easter Sunday was spent playing official camera man, kicking back in the sun, sipping beer (medicinal) and cheering on the spankings dished out by Fuljames at full bore!!!! Excellent weekend!!! Its off to Physio for me!!!

Kaituna - 1st May 2007

2007-04-19T10:50:00.000+10:00

It was time for a trip down to the Kaituna, just north of Rotorua. In recent times this river has been in the news as it is subject to a potential hydro scheme. It will totally ruin the river - one of the most famous rivers with paddling circles in the world!!!

Anyway, we headed down on the Sunday morning, bright and early. Only myself and Rhys had paddled the river before so it was wind up time for the rest the guys. Tales of beatings and long visits to the green room were exchanged.

The flow was a lowly 300 on the guage - definately a playboat run. Superb. I was however a little nervous as this was the first outing for me in my playboat for over 6 months. My ankle had prevented me from contorting it into the none existing foot room. But I was good to go.

The amazing thing about the Kaituna is the water is warm. If only every river were like this. The first major section is Powerhouse. A short section that used to be an old mill. Deep in a bush filled gorge you head over a small pourover/drop (about 2.5m) into and 'eddy'. This eddy is somewhat boily and not really a fun place to be. Then with a barrage of water from river left its a short ferry glide to position yourself to boof the wier. A swim here would result in a very very green experience. In classic Ben fashion I pulled somewhat of a mystery move over the first drop. The cushion wave I wanted to brace on wasn't there so I ended up pencilling (read: virtually front looping and face planting in the eddy) the drop. No biggy, a quick roll (read: 3 rolls) and I was good to go over the wier. Which was boofed without a problem. The rest of the group, including a very very scared looking Ash made it without too much drama.

Next stop the Waterfall. Tutea falls is described as 'one of the best boofs in New Zealand'. Well I am sure it is. If you time it right and actually boof that is. Cramming into the last chance eddy above the drop we ran through a few various scenarios. Not really sure why as in my view there is only one line and thats down. I think it was actually Rhys who called for the stop so he could build up the courage to padle off it. Haha. The drop is at the end of a narrow gorge so there is no scout. You effectively run it blind from the river and wait for the whistle to signal the all clear. Rhys went first. Whistle. I was off. Starting left, heading right, boof, hit the pile and paddle to glory!!!! Well that was the plan. All went well, semi boof, hit the pile, however the surge (which is totally luck of the draw) caught me and down I went.

I rolled up on the far river left against the rocks. Hmmmm, interesting. It seems I had gone deep, and flushed across. Problem my paddle had caught the water coming over the fall. And that was that, my shoulder was wrenched back and was buggered.

I paddled to the side in pain. Sat on the rocks to watch the rest of the carnage as the others dropped over the edge. Not one boof amongst them!! Haha.

I had to paddle the rest of the river with a gammy bung shoulder. Thankfully it wasn't far, the whole run is only a 30-40 minute blast. But that was it, my paddling was over.

Fab trip. Love that river. Shame about the injury....

Pub Crawl - March 2007

2007-04-13T07:32:00.000+10:00

It was time for another pub crawl round the city organised by the work social club. And in a flash of inspiration we had a bus to cart us around.

The Xray glasses were still in the development stage...

Amy should really have left before midnight!!!

When Bethan, Pete and Cassandra Came to Stay - February/March 2007

2007-04-10T15:44:00.000+10:00

I have left this a while (my bad) so some things are a little hazy so it is basically a brief mish mash of things I can remember going on...

My sister and her entourage came to see me in New Zealand. Pete and my niece Cassandra made up the party. It was fab to see them, it had been 20 odd months since I had seen them, and I had never even met my niece Cassandra so i was pretty excited. I am sure Cassandra was thrilled to see me too!

Anyway, the Dodge brigade was here for about 4 weeks and the plan was to cruise round the North Island taking in the sights, sounds and smells. Sadly things didn't start to well and the welcome to New Zealand was kind of ruined by Maui (the camper van people) totally cocking up the booking (they were informed they had run out of stock even though it was booked some 6 months previous, and that they should go and buy a tent at the Warehouse for $75!!!) and leaving B,P & C somewhat in the lurch. So after a frantic few hours finding a suitable tent for them to spend their holiday in (they were renting a tent not a camper) they spent a night in Hotel Horoeka. It was certainly a wake up call (literally) into the sleeping habits of a 1 year old!!!

The next day B, P, and C headed up north. I was to catch up with them on the weekends and show them the sites.

I met up with them in Whangerei, we then headed north some more to the Bay of Islands, stopping on route to see the toilets at Kawakawa. Random I know, but they really are fantastic. Decked out with wonderful colours and with windows made from coloured glass bottles. Its perhaps the only place you can get away with taking pictures in a public toilet!!!

The toilets at Kawakawa

So we made it to Paihia, camping on a the beach front. Fantastic. I love the Bay of Islands. Time was spent doing the touristy type stuff. And Cassandra had her first outing to the beach. Not a bad place to have it really.

We headed over to Russell - a fantastic little town tucked within the Bay of Islands. I could so see myself living there. Chilled out and sunny, oh and they had a really good pub. always important. A trip was also made to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the historical site where NZ became part of the Commonwealth way back when in 18wheneveritwas...

I left them to head over to the west coast of the north to go big tree spotting. I would soon see them again after a short week at work.

Joy rider in the making...

The next stop of meeting up with them was Rotorua. I love this place - the 'Vegas as it is affectionately known amongst travellers, tourists and kiwi folk alike. The 'Vegas is a geothermal wonderland full of geysers, and volcanics and steam and smells and all sorts of wonderful geologicky amazingness. We swam in a hot pool (secret spot), saw mud pools, geysers (not a gold chain or cignet ring in sight), all kinds of Maori singing and dancing (Pete chickened out of the Haka) and even a real live Kiwi. Amazing. I want one as a pet, although I am not fully convinced it was real, it may well have been a robot. Anyways, it was ace, grubbing around for bugs in a darkened enclosure. Yeah so it wasn't strictly in the wild, but they are so hard to come by I think a captured one counts.

In good uncley fashion i took it upon myself to learn Cassandra a traditional Maori move - she is now an expert at sticking her tongue out!!! I know it pleases Bethan a whole lot, but i do feel i have done my bit in educating her in the world.

Cassandra looking cool

I had to head back to Auckland once again, so I left them to carry on their journey. The next time we met was in the Coromandel.

Hot Water Beach was the port of call. A normal looking beach, white sand, ok surf, but with one difference. Hot water from gepthermal springs trickles through the beach into the sea. At low tide you dig a big hole in the sand, dam the walls and kick back and relax in the hot water that has filled your handy work. Well thats the theory.

We got there nice and early to stake our claim. One problem though. The shop that rents the spades required was shut. I didn;t really fancy our chances with Cassandra's plastic bucket and spade, but luckily a friendly local lent us his spade, and gave us a tip on where to dig. Pete and myself set to work as Bethan cunningly called the baby watch card!!!

Our hole was complete and it was filled with water, very hot water in fact. Bethan had brought along Cassandra's thermometer to check the water wasn't too hot for her. Well it was. A blistering 47 degrees centigrade it got too. It was flippin hot. And arrived in waves which provided endless amusement to the numerous onlookers as every so often we would leap up with yelps of scalding pain!!!! What a fantastic place.

We moved on and headed to Coromandel City to camp. The campsite had a giant inflatable cushion to bounce on. Cassandra loved it!!! As did I. Although i think i did myself some damage trying to perfect some acrobatics. Ah well.

The final trip for me was to the Driving Creek Railway. A narrow gauge railway up into the Coromandel hills originally built to bring clay down for pottery. However it kind of grew and now winds its way through the bush to provide stunning views of the Huraki Gulf and the Coromandel.

It was back to Auckland for me, but B, P & C would soon be joining me as sadly their adventure was coming to an end. It was really fab to meet Cassandra - i feel like a real uncle now, and good to catch up with B and P.

Abel Tasman - Sea Kayaking Expedition

2007-02-08T12:30:00.000+11:00

It was Waitangi Day on the 6th of Feb so i decided to take the Monday off and have a super long weekend. After a quick discussion with my mate Becky it was decided that we would go sea kayaking round the Abel Tasman National Park. I used to sit next to Becky in the Cardiff office of MWH and now she works in Nelson. Ideal. And seeing as she had been badgering me to come for a visit for some time i thought i had better oblige.

So i arrived in Nelson on the Friday and we got on the beers straight away. Much beer, food, some stupid cocktails and comedy dancing later i hot the sack in preparation for the preparation of the sea kayaking expedition extraordinaire. Saturday was spent recovering and shopping and having a mooch round Nelson. Its a small place with picturesque colonial architecture. And its fairly quiet too. Not sure its totally my cup of tea. I did managed to visit the geographical centre of New Zealand though, which isn't actually the geographical centre of New Zealand at all. So there we go, pretty pointless really.

The 'centre' of New Zealand - or not.

Anyway, on with the sea kayaking. Abel Tasman is the smallest national park in New Zealand is located on the northern tip of the South Island. It is named after Abel Tasman who was the first European explorer to sight New Zealand in 1642.

We had a kayak rented for 3 days with a return water taxi booked for the afternoon of the 6th. We were not to miss this else it would be a loooooooong paddle back. We set off from Kaiteriteri having packed our double kayak with tent and rations. I was the 'driver' at the back and had control of the direction with a foot pedal operated rudder. Becky was at the front. The first few km's we paddled we were in a group accompanied by a guide to make sure we could handle the bus like kayaks. We headed north past split apple rock - a large round rock that has been split in two somehow or other. I am sure the Maoris have a good story for how it ended up like that.

Split Apple Rock

So we headed north. Our guide left us and we were on our own. Well, sort of. The Abel Tasman was busy this weekend due to the stunning weather. Ho hum. We paddled along, headed out to a couple of small islands to explore. The beaches are fabulous and the water so clear and aquamarine. Wildlife was a plenty with fish and Shags and Oyster Catchers and Cicadas (really noisy grasshopper type bugs) being the most abundant. We were hoping to see some dolphins but sadly that didn't happen.

That night we were camping at Te Pukatea Bay, a beautiful campsite in a sheltered cove. We were camping right behind the beach. Stunning views to go to bed too and wake up too. Following our landing at the camp we took a short walk through the bush to a view point. Wow, what a view. Back across the bay we were camping in and away to the north over the rest of the park where we would be heading on the next day of the trip. You could even see Rays swimming in the shallows of the cove in the evening sunlight. Amazing.

Te Puketea Bay

The next day we paddled north and stopped in at a tidal lagoon (only accessible at high tide). We paddled up Torrent River (no torrents in site mind) and took another short walk into the bush to Cleopatra Pool. This is a fresh water, natural water park. The rocks have formed and eroded in such a way as to form a series of pools and water shoots that you can swim and frolic in. Trouble was however the water was bloody freezing!!!!! Great fun though. Sadly the crowds arrived and it got a little to crowded for us so we walked back tot he kayak and carried on paddling north. The beauty of the kayak was not only the stunning views, but also the freedom. We could explore beaches and coastline not accessible by foot!!!

Our second camp was in a place called Mosquito Bay. It is only accessible by boat. And at high tide (unless you like a long walk/drag with you very heavy craft). Luckily we timed the tide just right. An hour later the hike up the beach would have been a mammoth expedition in its own right. The views from the beach were amazing. And the pink cloudless sky at sunset was superb. Thankfully the site did not live up to its name and the mossies were few and far between. Sand flies on the other hand are a different matter!!!

Mosquito Bay

The following morning the tide was still out a fair way so it was a bit of effort to drag the kayak to the water. Thankfully a couple of other kayakers were in the same situation so team work was the order of the day. Today was our final day in the kayak. I was kind of glad as i was actually starting to get over the fact that you could see all this wonderful coastline and golden beaches. But the day was made a bit more interesting by a rather significant swell that was coming in. The paddle out was extremely choppy and surf filled, and we had to steer clear of the shore and the numerous reefs in the area in order to stay up right. Fun!!!

Tonga island was the port of call. This is a seal colony. And there were plenty of seals to see. Although it may have been a little early for them as they didn't seem to be their playful selves. They just kind of floated there. Or maybe they were getting bored of sea kayaking too. We couldn't stop for long though as Becky was starting to feel sea sick in the rocking and rolling of the kayak in the swell. I mean come on - how can you get sea sick in a kayak!!!

We headed for shore, a tiny beach lashed by surf for a bit of a breather. After a while sitting in the sun contemplating the next foray into the surf it was decided we would head to Shag Harbour, then back for the pick up and a couple of hours on the beach.

Shag Harbour, only accessible at high tide, provided a tranquil lagoon like refuge from the swell outside. Bounded by sheer rock walls it forked and split into many channels and rock islands. Excellent for paddling round and exploring. We only saw one Shag in Shag Harbour mind, so i can only presume he owned the whole lot.

The owner of Shag Harbour

It was a short paddle back (an hour or so) to the pick up point for the aquataxi to return us back to the Kaiteriteri. The trip back in the taxi took about 30 minutes. It took us nearly 3 days to get to the pick up!!! But it was a fabulous experience. The weather was hot, the sea was clear and the beaches were amazing. I once said sea kayaking is for gays. Well its not. It was fun. But it did lack a certain bit of adrenaline you get in the white water side of the sport. I would do it again for sure. But i am not rushing out to invest in a sea kayak. In all honesty i almost got bored of the endless paddling. But it is a means to access some of the most stunning scenery i have seen.

Tom and Rachael - The Wedding, Raglan 28th January 2007

2007-01-30T15:37:00.000+11:00

It was the Auckland Anniversary weekend so we headed off to Raglan for Tom and Rach's wedding. After a large stag do on the friday night people were feeling a little worse for wear early doors so departure was set for mid afternoon.

We pitched the tents and headed for the pub in the heart of Raglan. This seemed to be the theme for the weekend. Raglan is a small coastal village on the west coast about 2 hour drive south from Auckland. It comprises mainly of baches and coffee shops and of course the pub. Oh and it happens to be a couple of km's away from what is regarded as one of the best left breaks IN THE WORLD! Basically it has awesome surf. Anyway, we were there for a wedding not a surfing holiday.

The wedding was on the Sunday. After a quick dip in the sea in the morning to clear our heads we got dressed to the nines and headed for the church. It was a relatively quick service, the highlight being Toms eagerness to plant the first wedded kiss. Rachael was in fact prepared to wait until the appropriate moment. With that out of the way it was off for champagne at the beach. After all thats all weddings are about isn't it - the booze. Sorry perhaps i should clarify - thats what other peoples weddings are about. Right?

Then it was off the the reception. This was held at Rachaels folks' house. A 3000 acre farm just outside of Raglan. It was a stunning place. The marquee was set up and the bar was opened up to the 200 odd guests. The food was excellent, and the speeches went without too much embarrassment. Then the party really began, and continued late into the night. Thunder and lightning and a down pour couldn't dampen the spirits.

The next day the primary focus was on rehydration. And after a grey start the weather soon picked up - not a cloud in the sky. And the surf was pumping. We hit the beach. West coast waves are like nothing you have ever experienced. The best way to describe them i guess is that they are thick. There is a lot of water in them. And when they decide to nail you, err, you get nailed. Its all good fun though.

A fab weekend. Just need to buy shares in aftersun now. After a weekend in the NZ sun i seem to be radiating somewhat!!!

Auckland Harbour Bridge...

2007-01-09T09:39:00.000+11:00

On Saturday 6th Jan the New Zealand A1GP team were doing a publicity stunt on Auckland Harbour Bridge to promote the NZ round of the A1GP series. Half the bridge had been closed for roadworks, these were now complete, but before it was opened up to the public again the GP car was to have a few blasts over it - just for fun.

All well and good, but it gets better. Being an aquaintance of the project manager of the road works on the bridge has its advantages!!!! Darren and i got up nice and early and toddled off the the harbour area. High vis vest on we were given free reign of the bridge. It was awesome. We climbed the arch and walked the length of the deck. The views were fab - especially from the top. Then we got ourselves in position for the running of the car.

The arrival was some what of an anti climax. I was expecting a huge black truck and trailer with the car being rolled out in a cloud of smoke and lights. Sadly the best the A1GP NZ team could come up with was a hired flat bed trailer from a local garage towed behind a 4x4. Ah well. I guess the budget is some what less than F1.

After a little waiting around the car was fired up. Wow - it was super loud. When i mean super load i mean ear shatteringly super load. Very impressive. Up on top of the arch we had a spectacular view as the car blasted its way along the bridge. It only got to about 160km/hr apparently, but the police radar was having difficulty picking it up as it was so low to the ground. The driver also admitted he wasn't going flat out due to the lack of grip on the bridge and in the cold tyres. Still looked flippin fast though.

Not your normal bridge traffic.

Then came the burnout......

Busted!!!

It was a fab morning. Not something you get to do everyday. Especially walking over the bridge. People pay to walk over it. They get full rope access gear and harnesses and have to clip on to a safety wire. Hahahaha, we were running round on it with nothing more than a high-vis vest. Perfectly safe!!!!

Christmas and New Year

2007-01-09T09:34:00.000+11:00

Not much to say really. Christmas was spent at home in Akld. Had a gang of fellow 'orphans' over to celebrate. BBQ bacon and eggs for breakfast accompanied by champagne in the sun. Then a little more champagne, then a BBQ christmas dinner - sausages, steak, chicken, salad, veggies and oodles of booze. Splendid. Then it was silly games in the evening until bed. Great day.

New year was very wet. Headed down to Taupo for a spot of camping. And it rained. But was still a good time. Except i was ill. Ho hum. Then back to Auckland on New Years day to dry out. The weather picked up so we headed north to Leigh for a couple of days. Its only an our north of Auckland but it is stunning. Goat Island is a marine reserve and you can snorkel with fish galore of all colours and shapes and sizes. We played on the beach, in the surf and in the sun. The weather was amazingly hot.

Busy busy busy

2006-11-16T12:40:00.000+11:00

Well I am finally getting round to updating this thing. Although there is not much to update it with really. My life seems to be revolving around work of late. Ho hum. Not what I came ot New Zealand for. Oh well. Hopefully things will get better.

One thing to note is my folks are here at the moment. And they are really liking it!!! Well there's a suprise!!! It is New Zealand after all. They have been cruising the North Island in a camper and i have been meeting up with them on the weekends.

Last weekend was a trip to Rotovegas - i love that place. All that volcanoey and hot pool type stuff. Really interesting!!!

Anyway, watch this space.

Back to the Philippines

2006-10-05T14:03:00.000+10:00

Well i nearly didn't make it. The night before i was due to fly out to Manila i had a slight mishap playing indoor football. One trip to the medical centre and a pair of crutches later i hobbled off to try and cancel my flights in 6 hours time. Thankfully i managed to change the flights and the new date was set for 18th September.

I was heading back to help out as a technical advisor to a company called Globecare - a remediation contractor based in Manila. I was tasked to help out with the clean up of a mercury impacted site, as well as cast my expert (hehe) eye over a few other sites that require some work.

Most of the time was spent in the office frantically emailing and sending off proposals and setting up meetings. I did get out to a few sites though, even though my mobility was not at its best. Hopefully all the hard work will pay off and i will be back out there fairly soon.

Manila is an interesting place. Well, i guess i should say more busy than interesting. The place hums with activity. Well i guess it would with 12 million people living in the same place. The traffic is quite frankly epic. But enough of the city stuff. I had the opportunity to escape so i took it. I spent the weekend on the island of Boracay.

Boracay is a 45 minute plane ride south of Manila. It is one of the 7,017 islands that make the Philippines the second biggest archipeligo in the world (interesting fact no.1). The Philippine islands actually have more coast line than the whole of the United States of America (interesting fact 2 - and now i am out of facts).

Anyway, Boracay is approximately 7km long and 1km wide. You can't actually get there by plane, you fly to the neighbouring island and get a boat to the island. It takes about 20 minutes. The flight over was, err, horrendous. An 18 seater prop aircraft flying in the monsoon season afternoon. Asking for trouble really. It was extremely bumpy. Baggage was rolling around the cabin, water was leaking in the door, we were thrown left and right and up and down. At one point a couple of passengers even screamed - it was that bad. Thankfully we landed safely and it was off to catch me a boat.

The first thing i noticed was how helpful the Filipinos are. Much more so than in Manila. I am used to carrying my own bag and opening my owns doors etc. But here i was not allowed too. Everything was done for me. Very odd. I mean its great and all, but i am just not used to it.

So i arrived on the beach on the western side of the island. All the accomodation and bars etc are on the east so it was a short jeepney ride across the lush green island. Thankfully the jeepneys here are far more sedate than the ones in Manila.

So all booked in to my accommodation it was time to hit the beach. Not far to walk - all of about 10m. Niiiiiice. Now it is supposed to be one of the best beaches in the world. Personally i am not convinced. Now its a really nice beach, don't get me wrong, but it is flanked by loads of bars and various forms of accomodation. Surely there are a fair number of better beaches in the Philippines let alone the world. Anyway, i hit the beach.

Met up with a guy called Wim from Holland. He was on the same transfer boat. We found a bar and started drinking. Ice cold San Miguel on a white sandy beach on a hot sunny day. Great.

After a swim in the sea the day turned to night and we hit the bars. Again, San Miguel was the drink of choice. At some time around 2.30am i managed to stagger back along the beach to hit the sack. And this was early for Filipinos!!!

Breakfast on the beach then a transfer to Daves Straw Hat Inn. I had had enough of the overpriced and underspecced hotel i was in. Daves was much cheaper ($20 a night) and every bit as good. The only difference being it was 100m from the beach not 10m. Then it was off to another bar, out for a swim, out for a short sail and a bit of a snorkel over the reef. Excellent. Then it was back to a bar for dinner and an acoustic open mic night with Boracays finest till the wee small hours. It was an awesome night. The bar was tucked in amongst the palm trees, lit by lanterns. Amazing. No idea what time i got home. All i know is the next morning i was feeling somewhat sub-optimal.

It was monday and i was feeling quite hungover. An ideal day to go sailing then - obviously. We managed a lap of the island on a traditional outrigger called a Paraw. Basically a very narrow hull (like a canoe) and and outrigger on each side so it forms a trimeran type arrangement. It was totally wooded and help together with wire and rope. Splendid. The sail appeared to be plastic tarpauline, but it didn't half shift in the wind. It was superb fun. We even manged to stop en route for a spot of snorkelling. Feeding the fish with left over sarnies. The coulors were amazing and having them nibble straight from your hand is incredible. I could see myself getting into this diving lark!!!

Sadly my time on the beach paradise was over all too soon. But next time i am back there i have grand plans. Active volcanoes to see (i mean really active!!!) deserted beaches to explore and rice terraces galore described as one of the natural wonders of the world!!!

The hustle and bustle and the hot and sweatiness of Manila was a bit of a downer after all that open ocean and white sand. Ho hum. It was back to Auckland to prepare for the kiwi summer.

Sailing Adventures with Dr Tom

2006-10-02T11:05:00.000+10:00

Tom bought himself a boat a while back. And we thought we would take it for a whirl round the harbour. A nice little 24ft vessel called JAFTICA (Just Another F******* Toy I Can't Afford!!!).

Anyway, we managed to pick a lovely day for a sail. It was chucking it down as per the norm on an Auckland afternoon in August. But fun was had by all. Even though we were against the tide it was nice to get out and about.

Captain Dr. Tom at the helm.

And in the words of Ratty from Wind in the Willows - 'Believe me, my young friend, there is NOTHING--absolutely nothing--half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats'.

Needless to say i have started saving for my own boat.

Pub Golf - 24th June

2006-07-18T13:27:00.000+10:00

It was that time of year again. The annual MWH pub golf event. 9 pubs 9 drinks and penalties. Scores were kept on a T-shirt score card. The aim, as in golf, is to get round in as few shots as possible. The drinks were - a cocktail of your choice, a wine, a red headed slut (whatever that is), Submarine (lager and ammeretto - nicer than it sounds), a mixer, a margarita, a white russian (yummy), a snakebite and a pint of good old beer. The drinks were flowing nicely and everyone was in good spirits. The confident (brave or stupid - not sure which) also added a few extra drinks just for fun. Bragging rights were not permitted however.

Things moved on at a fair rate of knots - there was even time to knock off a Red Headed Slut. So to speak.

Chris and Daz double teaming the slut - and in public too!!!!

All was going to plan. I was part of a crack team that was seeing off the drinks with some ease in one. I even managed a penalty pint in one go too. However things were about to take an unfortunate turn.

Its all gone horribly wrong - Snakebite just wouldn't go down in one

It was a pint of snakebite - not my favourite tipple i have to admit. But thats ok, i am man enough to deal with a girls pint. Or so i thought. Dammit, it was too cold, halfway through i thought i was gonna black out with an ice cream headache. I cut my losses and scored two. The worst bit was i was beaten by the girls. Dammit. I shall never be allowed back to the UK again.

MeeeeeOwwwww - Ericacacacacacaaaaaa

The hat says it all really

So there we go - i did nine hole in ten shots, Not bad going. But a bit of a poor show on the snake bite. Ah well - will get in some training for next year. The night ended in Danny Doolans bopping to tunes and drinking until the wee small hours. A top top night.

Thriller in Manila

2006-06-30T09:25:00.000+10:00

The call came on the thursday - was i busy at work? Well yes - I am always busy (just in case the bosses read this). But did i have time to fit in a trip to Manila, Philippines for a last minute remediation job. Errrrr, yes. I think so. So Sunday 4th June I was on my way.

The flight was epic. Long and boring. But the views were amazing - flying over Indonesia dodging thunder storms - wow it was impressive. I hate thunder - but there was something truely fascinating about seeing clouds totally lit up with pink and gold fork lighning. Clouds that are at 35,000ft. Wow.

I arrived in Manila. And the heat hit me. My god it was hot. Oppressive muggy heat. Horrible. Mid Thirties and very very humid. Thank the lord for air con.

So what was i doing there? Well i was offering technical advice to a company that was cleaning up a contaminated site. Easy peasy. I was hoping to get involved with some of the actual field work - sadly due to delays that was not to be so i was mainly involved in the kicking off stage.

But thats enough about work. More about the Philippines. Sadly photos are somewhat lacking, but i am hoping to go back and i will definately get some then.

I wasn't really sure what to expect of Manila. It turned out to tbe a very westernised city. A huge city - 6 cities rolled into one. High rise glass clad buildings looked like something out of New York rather than a Pacific nation. But the slums were very obvious - and very close to the city. There seemed to be no real middle ground or inner city - high rise wealth to slums pretty much straight away.

Everybody drives in Manila - and nobody gives way. Totally manic. Yet i saw suprisingly few incidents. Perhaps it was due to the fact that the trafic doesn't seem to go above 40 km/h. I thought Auckland drivers were bad but the Filipinos are totally sadistic when it comes to piloting a vehicle. Traffic lights don't seem to register and the favourite past time of a driver is to lean on the horn until it wears out. And if you get pulled over by the police, if oyu buy him his lunch then everything is sweet. Corrupt? Never. Haha.

The nightlife. Well, it was errrr, interesting. The beer was certainly cheap. And there was alot more on offer than beer. Whether it was men or women offering the extras is anyones guess. I stuck to the San Miguel - the Philippines own lager beer. And it was mighty nice too. Really refreshing served just above freezing.

The food is also interesting. A mix of Thai and Pacific flavours I guess. Personally i found it all a bit bland. But then maybe i just wasn't eating the right stuff. Don't get me wrong - it was nice, but lacked a bit of something or other. One interesting dish i tried was called Sissig. Hmmmmm, i wish i had asked what it was afetr i had finished eating it. Basically it is mashed up deep fried pig head. Like all of the head - snout, ears, tongue, the lot. Tastes like pork scratchings in mayonnaise. Yum - sort of.

Anyway, thats about it for the Philippines - i hope to go back and next time i am going to escape the city and see the countryside. It is supposed to be stunning......Watch this space.

HOUSE PARTY - Friday 19th May

2006-06-01T13:53:00.000+10:00

We thought it was about time for a good old fashioned house party. Belated housewarming, birthdays (Johnny and Lucy), Hiedi going away and well, just for the sake of a party really. Boy oh boy, what a cracker it was too.

We started in the pub to watch the rugby then moved back to my gaff where the party was in full swing.

I think i lasted until about 5am on Saturday morning. But i am not really sure. I did however wake at about nine on the saturday to find our sofa on the front lawn with people still merrily drinking away. How the sofa got there is anybodies guess - ah well. I was off back to bed until the evening nursing the mother of all hangovers. What a night.

The MIGHTY Wairoa - 7th May 2006

2006-05-08T09:33:00.000+10:00

It was the last flow of the season so it had to include a run on the top section of the Wairoa. A nice easy (???) grade IV/V in a stunning gorge. Nerves jangling, myself, Dodgey and Hayden put on below McClarens Falls to paddle off into the dark depths of the gorge.

A play wave (humpty dumpty) is the first stop. Although I wasn't really in a playful mood. I just wanted to run the river!!! Its then a nice bimble through some grade IV rapids named Mothers Nightmare, Devils Elbow and Double Trouble. Hmmm interesting choice in the naming. No real dramas mind - just a bit side ways on Mother Nightmare - not a good start, but hey, best to get the muppetitis out of the way on the less serious stuff.

The 'Toaster' waterfall was next. Aptly named due to the slot on river right that you really don't want to drop into. Rafts dropping into here look like a slice of bread in a toaster. And if you do drop in in a kayak there is a good chance you will be toast - nice. There is also a 'save yourself' chain bolted to the rock next the hole should you drop in too far left. Thankfully this was not required by anyone today. My line over the toaster was described by a fellow paddler as 'pretty close'. I ventured slightly to far right and got a real good view of the slot as I slid down the rock. Eyes like saucers!!! All sweet though, I made it.

Then there was the 'Rollercoaster'. Chicken chute round the 'Cauldron' by boofing into the eddy river right, then it was a matter of a nice simple ferry glide across the main flow just above 'Rollercoaster' itself. Hmmm, don't wanna mess this one up. Bus Stop eddy is the starting place, break out into the flow, big boof off the rock int he middle and see what happens - the only real instruction is to avoid the undercut at the bottom.

The Rollercoaster

So off I paddled, boofed for all my might, but not really far enough right. Oh well, Everything was white. I cleared the first hole - sort of, and popped up in the third, then it was a simple paddle out to the eddy to look back up at a suprisingly meaty drop. Awesome. Job done. It was now a nice bimble down the grade III section to the car.

Easter Adventure - The Mohaka River 14th - 17th April

2006-05-01T15:32:00.000+10:00

The long easter weekend was spent down on the East Cape around Napier. The mission was to paddle the Mohaka River. After an early start on Good Friday the team (Dodgey, Nicki, Sam, Mai, Steffan, Hayden and myself) arrived at the get in a little weary and stiff from the 5 hour drive. It was running late in the day and a 2.5 hour grade 2 paddle seemed not so appealing. I quickly volunteered for shuttle bunny with Sam, sniggering as the remaining five kitted up for an evening paddle. We were off to drink beer - err, strike camp.

Day two began with a foggy start. And out of the mist emerged a hoard of wild horses intent on taking up kayaking for themselves. Well, trying plastic kayaks as a dietary supplement anyway. Thankfully expensive multi-coloured tupperware tubs aren't that tasty and we were left in peace to much away on our breakfast.

The paddle was a nice bimble on grade III (IV) water winding its way through the isolated East Cape country side. No real epics - just nice waves, big ramp type rapids and a few large holes to contend with.

So there i was, happily following Hayden, minding my own business as we approach the top of a rapid. Hayden leads in cautiously going with the flow - we were running everything blind - no biggy, its not a hard river. Hayden suddenly nails an eddy and sits right on the eddy line. I was now the blind probe!!! And boy was there a big hole. No wonder Hayden made a sharp exit. Nothing for it but to charge it. Power on and a deep breath. The sky sure was clear and blue. An H3 vertical is apparently an impressive site!!! Hehe.

A cracking days paddle with a fish and chip (fush n chup if you kiwis don't understand english) dinner in Napier. Then back to camp for beers and sing song round the camp fire. Ok so thankfully no sing song but a good few beers were had in preparation for tackling the gorge on sunday.

Easter Sunday was another foggy day. And we were (well some of us - i was fast asleep) woken by more wild horse antics. This time it seemed they took a dislike to tents. Thankfully not mine. Anyway, today was the reason we came to do the Mohaka - the gorge (Willow Flat section).

It was going to be a cold day tucked away in the depths of the gorge. Once your in - the only way out is by chopper or by kayak. The group was down to four with only myself, Dodgey, Hayden and Mai going for it. We wrapped up in all the thermals we could find (thank the lord for my dry trousers) and off we set, waving goodbye to our comrade who we would not see for another 6 hours.
Hayden paddles off to infinity and beyond...

The run starts nicely with a picturesque grade II run before things start getting fun. A lot of the run has to be run blind due to it being in a gorge. This adds to the excitement as you never know what will be round the next boulder. The crux of the run is 'Guides Launch', a nice drop into a meaty hole. Mai discovered a chicken chute which she ran backwards - slightly concerned for her well being i followed what i thought was her line. However it turned out to be the wrong line. The skyward nose of my H3 once again signifying to the following that perhaps river left was a better option. Or so they thought.... Dodgey had an interesting moment (about 30 seconds of moment to be fair) in the whole on river left. Ah well, that'll learn him for paddling a silly small boat.

The scenery was stunning. House sized boulders and 150m high gorge walls. The deeper into the gorge we went the more stunning, and the best was saved for last. 'Hotel Rock' signified the beginning of the end of the run. It is indeed the size of a hotel. How it got there is anyones guess. It seems to be of a totally different geology to the rest of the gorge too, and too big to have come down the gorge. Ho hum the mystery continues.

The only way is up, baby, - Name that tune?!?!?

Then it was all over and a 5 hour trip back to Auckland. Awesome run. Awesome scenery, oh, and one thing of note. The shuttle for the bottom section is quite possibly the biggest shuttle known to man - must have been a good 80km!!!

U2 Postponed so it was Eden Park and the Blues

2006-03-20T16:58:00.000+11:00

With U2 postponing their gigs in New Zealand, well the entire down under leg of their tour, Saturday night was free to enjoy a night at Eden Park and the Super 14's. The Blues were playing the ACT Brumbies - featuring none other than George Gregan. We had prime seats to watch him get a kicking!!!!

We had a great view of the rugby

Now Super 14's games seem to be a bit different to other rugby games i have been to. The emphasis is on entertainment - and with no relegation to worry about iot shoudl make for a good running game. So after the fireworks and the dancing it was down to business.

The Blues ran out winners 26 - 15. Gregan got subbed halfway through the second half and didn't get panned as hoped - ah well, always next time. Then it was off to the pub for a re-tox following St Paddys day the night before.

Bryce & Chris with their mug shots for the next recruitment for the Cheerleadering Squad.

Thankfully I think their chances are a long way less than good.

I'm an Uncle!!!

2006-02-22T13:58:00.000+11:00

Congratulations to my sister Bethan and her hubby Pete. Cassandra Leigh Dodge was born at 00.50am on Saturday 18th February weighing in at 7lbs.

Cassandra Leigh Dodge

And to celebrate my uncledom I went to the pub to consume some alcoholic beverages in moderation. (That bits for mum) I actually got trollied!!! Haha!!! Dammit.

The Adventure Continues

2006-01-20T11:09:00.000+11:00

With the holidays continuing until the 9th Jan there was still loads of time to explore and play. After recovering from New Year in the Bay of Islands with a New Years Day paddle round the headland for 'fush n chups'. Mental note - playboat v sea kayak - playboat will NEVER win a race - but does win on the style front. Anyway, we headed back to Auckland for re-supply before heading out to conquer the Coromandel.

So off to the Coromandel it was. The Coromandel is the peninsula of land that forms the western flank of the Bay of Plenty. On a clear day it can be seen from Auckland. At a guess its probably only a couple of hours drive out of town. First stop was Thames. The Coromandel is famous for its gold mining and Thames is basically a mining town. Well, was a mining town, built on the back of the mining in the area. So what do you do in a mining town? Go and visit a mine of course!!! It was only a brief tour mind, and the mine was no longer active. It did however confirm my suspicions - mining for gold is a rubbish job. I am too tall for one, and the gold at this location was pretty rubbish. The processing also resulted in about 50% loss of gold. Not a really impressive return. But being a geologist it was a genuinely interesting tour - and the old boy giving the demos certainly knew his stuff.

We decided to push on north whilst the light was good. Sadly we arrived in Coromandel City at closing time so it was just a quick walk round this frontier style town and then back on the road to find a camp. We decided against heading up the tip of the Coromandel (fantail bay) this time due to the time constraints. Instead we cut across to Waikawau and a DOC site for the night.

Wednesday 4th saw us head south along the eastern side of the Coromandel. First stop was Cathedral Cove. Cathedral Cove has striking white sandy beaches and vertical white cliff lines doted with blooming Pohutakawa trees. Very impressive. The beach is bisected by a headland which has had an arch eroded through it connecting the two beaches of Cathedral Cove together. Now I could go into the formation process of such a feature, but don't want to bore you good folk, so all that needs to be said really is that it is pretty impressive.

Cathedral Cove

About 10km south of Cathedral Cove is Hot Water Beach. There is pretty much naff all at Hot Water Beach besides the beach and a cafe. However the beach itself is a little different from most other beaches. In the centre of the beach rocks protrude from the headland out into the sea. This is marks the location of the hotsprings. Basically what you do is, with a spade, which you can hire from the cafe, you dig a hole in the sand and let it fill with hot water from the springs. Then you can bathe and wallow to your hearts content, and have the occasional refreshing dip in the cold sea. Sounds great. The reality is that even way before low tide (optimal digging time) crowds start gathering around the rocks, shovels cocked, marking out their terratory, not unlike ze germanz and their sunbeds. So rocking up a couple of minutes before low tide was not the best approach to digging my own natural hot pool. Ah well. After several minutes of futile excavating, it seemed the best tack was to hijack someone elses hole. However with several hundred people all trying the same thing, and with best spots taken, and being closely guarded against invasion it was a pretty unsuccessful adventure. When water was struck however it was indeed mighty hot. Scolding in fact, so be warned. Here is my tip - if you head to Hot Water Beach check the tides and go early, and out of season and stake your claim to a spot very close to the rocks. And if you can get your hands on one - a JCB would do wonders in digging a hole, with the added bonus of flattening invaders at the same time!!!

Oh for a JCB

We headed south to Wentworth Valley and a DOC site for the night before breakfast in Tauranga at a lovely cafe bar, and then it was off to the 'Vegas!!!

The first stop in Vegas was the Whakarewarewa thermal village. This is a living Maori village set in amongst the thermal pools of the area. We took a guided tour around the village by one of the residents. It was brilliant and very insightful. Highly recommended. It is a living village inhabited by Maori. They go about their normal daily routines whilst you wonder around. Kids run free in the streets and dive for pennies off the bridge. Everything in the village is geothermal related. The houses are heated geothermally, food is cooked in central Hangi steam boxes and the baths are geothermal. A wonderful experience.

Then it was off to the Rotorua Museum. This is set in the old bath house on the shores of the lake. A magnificent structure. Several exhibitions are within, including a Kiwi display. This covered everything Kiwi from the bird to the boot polish. Perhaps the most interesting (to me anyway) was the exhibit telling the story of the devastating Tarawera eruption in 1886. To put a scale on it, the eruption was significantly larger than the 1985 Mt St Helens eruption and the mid nineties eruption of Mt Pinatubo in the Phillipines. It killed quite a few folk in the surrounding area, and also destroyed the pink and white terraces. These were considered as one of the seven natural wonders of the world. A real shame. It is also said that the eruption was foreshadowed several days earlier by the sightings of a 'ghost' waka (maori war canoe) paddling furiously away from Mt Tarawera across the lake. A lesson there for all volcanologists i think. Sod the modern gizmos and multi million dollar research - just call ghostbusters!

A quick blast down SH38 took us to the campground at the base of Mt Tarawera. It was here that we had the only rain of the trip. When it rains it pours mind - it properly hooned it down. But thankfully it was short and sweet, and nothing a good bottle of vino and curry cooked up in the back of the surf wagon couldn't fix.

It was an early start the next day as we headed to Wai-O-Tapu, a geothermal park just off SH5, south of the 'Vegas. Wai-O-Tapu are hte proud 'operators' of the Lady Knox Geyser. I say operators as the geyser is ignominiously induced to perform daily at 10.30am by pouring soap down the spout. Its a whole surface tension thing apparently, with the soap allowing the superheated water and steam to beak throught he cold water barrier holding it below the surface. The initial foaming and frothing is rather entertaining (for about 30 seconds before it gets a bit boring) and is followed by jet of steam and water that can reach up to 10 in the air accompanied by 'ooohs' and 'ahhhs' from the assembled crowd (mainly Japs) gazing in wonderment from the terraced amphitheatre surrounding the geyser. It erpupts for about an hour after initiation. But after a couple of minutes and a few photos there isnlt much else to see really so it was back to the main centre to look around geothermal pools and formations such as the Devils Ink Pots and the Champagne Pool. The water from the Champagne Pool froth over and flow over The Terraces depositing minerals on the way. Come back in a thousand years time and i am assured The Terrace will rival that of the Pink and White Terraces. Hmmmmm. Now wheres my Delorean...

From here we had a quick dip in 'Secret Spot'. This is a hot stream flowing into a cold river, so basically you swim around until you find a spot where the temperature is to your liking. The higher up the stream you go the hotter it is. A fantastic little spot, and i would love to tell you where it is, but as the name suggests...haha. Not really, the irony being that pretty much everyone knows where it is, about half a click off SH5 on the road to Wai-O-Tapu itself. Park by the wooden bridge and head 25m into the bush and there you have it. The best time to go is at night, with candles adorning the river banks, a few bottles of beer and an amazing view through a gap in the canopy to the stars above. Superb.

After chilling out at Secret Spot, and leaving just as a bus load of backpackers turned up (perfect timing) we headed back to the 'Vegas for lunch and then onto the Skyline Skyrides site for a spot of luging. Superb!!!

The trip was coming to a close so we decided to head back home on the Friday evening to beat the traffic and to have a day in Auckland sorting stuff out before Jennas departure back to the UK.

Christmas and New Year 2006 - A Mini Adventure

2006-01-10T15:26:00.000+11:00

With work over for 2005 and the office officially shut down until 2006 it was time to enjoy the summer holidays. It seems very strange enjoying summer holidays over Christmas. But hey, I guess I will have to get used to it.

So what was planned for my summer (Christmas) break? Well with the arrival of Jenna a couple of weeks earlier from the UK a road trip was on the cards round the north. All started really well with a delay in departure by a day. But saying that fighting the Friday night traffic in Auckland is bad enough, but at the start of the national holiday, the lazy nature of packing and planning did us a favour. So Christmas eve was a trek up to Pihia in the Bay of Islands with a fully loaded surf wagon.

Jennas Aunt and Uncle (Helen and Graham) had kindly offered us accommodation and hospitality over the Christmas period. And wow, what accommodation. Their house is perched on the hill side over looking the bay opposite Russell (the former capital of NZ and 'Hell Hole of the Pacific') towards Opua.

And so it was Christmas. Woohoo. Ever so strange being hot and sunny. But bacon and eggs on the BBQ in the sun on the deck, with a glass of champers in hand went some way to get me in the festive spirit. Having stuffed oursleves silly and drunken far too much champagne for the time of morning it was we opened the pressies!!! Woohoo!!! Then it was off to Bernard the millionaires house on top of the hill for christmas lunch and more drink. Oh goody - i was already ready to burst, but hey, it would be rude not to stuff myself some more surely.

Master Chef at work -Christmas Breakfast!!!

The afternoon was spent cruising the bay in Grahams speedboat. What a better way to spend Christmas day than messing about in boats. Zooming across the bay and over to Russell on a beer hunt. Quest successful, more drinking. Then back to port for an evening of drinking - errr, recovering.

Boxing day was much of the same. More speed boat antics and beers in the sun. This time however, at the lunch spot on Urapukapuka island we were accompanied by dolphins, rays and a penguin of all things!!!! Amazing.

So after the festivities of christmas and boxing day the road trip began proper. The aim was to tour the northland and see the sights. I think this goal was achieved, and what follows is a brief rundown of what we got up to.

First stop was the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. It was here that the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. The treaty between the Maoris and the British effectively signed over New Zealand to British Sovereignty. The grounds, just north of Pihia have the Treaty House, where the treaty was drawn up and where the British Envoy to NZ lived, a Maori Waka (a war canoe) and the Te Whare Runanga - a maori meeting house. A flagstaff has been erected at the spot on the lawn where the treaty was signed. The treaty itself guarentees equal rights for both Maoris and non-Maori citizens in Aotearoa New Zealand and is still relevant today.

Matauri Bay. Some 4 miles off shore here is the dive site for the wreck of the Rainbow Warrior. A quick walk up the hill over looking the stuuning beach takes you to the Rainbow Warrior Memorial. As memorials go it was quite a nice one, a mix of metalwork and stone in a big arch, featuring the Rainbow Warriors propellor.

Rainbow Warrior Memorial!!!

Dinner was got from Mangonui Fish and Chip shop. World famous apparently (aren't all chippys world famous?). It was nice and it was lovely view down the harbour. And the fish was certainly fresh - you chose you piece unbattered and they charge you by weight - fresh from the boat. Tasty, but i have to say, still not as nice as the mighty Knowle Fish Bar. Infact that place still remains my fave chippy to date. A night at Hihi saw us refreshed and rejuvenated for the push to the top - Cape Reinga.

We broke the drive up north up by cruising round the Karkari Peninsula. A funny place. Baron and scrub like. But at the end - Maitai Bay, it was stunning. An amzing half moon bay of white sands and crystal clear blue water. Only trouble is, it was a bit crowded - all of 12 people. Oh and the water was bloody freezing!!!

We cruised further north and toyed with crashing for the night at Rararawa - a superb DOC site on the east coast right on a perfect white sand beach - pretty good surf too. However a quick chat with the nice DOC man saw us go for a final push to the top. Well not quite the top - we headed for Spirits Bay, another DOC site. Wow what a site. After a good 25km of gravel tracks enabling a good impression of Colin McRae to be undertaken (not sure if the co-pilot had as much fun as me) we arrived in a cloud of dust at the camp gates. The site is right on the beach. And the surf was pumping. However i was a bit chicken to test it out in my boat. Big rip and a habit of slamming you into the gravel beach didn't really appeal to me. Gonna stick to small surf for a bit after my pounding at Piha (but thats another story - it was a tsunami, i swear!!!). Anyway, a stunning sunset across the bay over Cape Reinga signalled an epic battle to commence - man v mozzy. Not really sure who won (Jenna will disagree) but i was giving as good as i got.

Sunset at Spirits Bay - nice hat!!!

Cape Reinga was a little dissapointing. This is the place where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. And its also the place where the maori spirits descend to the final resting place in the after life. However, after another few km's of being Colin McRae we were greeted with throngs of people - Japanese mainly. Bit of a dissapointment really. THe lighthouse was pretty interesting though - solar powered, controlled from Wellington and run on a 50watt bulb that is visible for 35 miles. Pretty cool.

Next stop was 90 mile beach. Its not actually 90 miles long (its about 64 miles long). Its also part of the State Highway system - bit random - and if you drive on it your insurance is invalid. Hmmmm, a small worry. The best time to go is the window 2 hours each side of low tide. Having no idea of when the tides were the trip to Te Paki was primarily to look at the massive sand dunes (like something out of Star Wars) and perhaps to walk down to the beach. Access is via a river which has reported quicksand in it. Even more nervous about taking my beast for a spin on the beach. However my mind was made up when a coach went hooning past down the river. If a coach can do it then a 4x4 will have no problem at all. A cruise on the beach was on - stick with the coach - safety in numbers and all that. We were off, 4x4 engaged, windows shut, wipers on - off roading baby!!!

We hit the beach and cruised. The sand was hard so no issues there. Just stay with the coach. 100km/hr all the way - sorted. Its quite a strange feeling driving on the beach. Especially when the your safety (the coach) stops and you are on your own with no idea of the tide times and no way out off the beach once you're on. Fun fun fun.

After no idea how long we hit some sort of civilisation. Not really sure where it was though. Somewhere on the west coast and thats about it. We pushed on. Finally we reached what we thought was Ahipara. No signposts on the beach - how inconsiderate!!! A nervous bit of rock hopping off roading took us round to Shipwrecks Bay where we de-beached and looked for a camp for the night.

Next stop it was off to Max's batch in Opononi. Having de-salted and de-sanded my car after hooning around on 90 mile beach i was most dismayed to find myself having to park my truck at the front of the Hokianga Harbour ferry to Rawene. I may as not have bothered. I think the captain of the ferry thought he was Richard Branson on a cross atlantic challenege or something - he was booting across, covering my truck in salty goodness once more!!! Hmmmm. Another rinse down required. Having cruised the streets of Opononi for a good few minutes we eventually found Max's batch. Right at the start of our mini tour. 'Can't miss it' he said - hmmmm obviously. It was a nice pad - overlooking the water and some more mighty dunes over the harbour. It was also nice to meet the Burkitts who had joined Max for christmas and new year - it was a proper work get together. And here was me thinking i was supposed to be on holiday. Anway, beers were sunk, tales were told, and we even braved the local pub - we did stand out a mile mind - must remember to pack me stubbies and wife beater next time - oh and grow a mo and get a mullet.

The next day we went on a gay dolphin hunt. Opo the gay dolphin was perhaps Opononis most famous inhabitant. During the short spell of gayness in the 50's Opo entertained crowds and kids a plenty. Very funny video at the visitors centre - i would recommend it to anyone. If you can watch it with a straight face i will be most impressed.

Next was a Tane Mahuta. New Zealands biggest tree. The Northland is known for its Kauri forests, and Tane was a beast. A mighty girth. The photos don't really do it justice. Its not that tall, i am sure i have seen taller - but it certainly was a biggun. Another short hop in the truck took us to more forestry. This time to see the second biggest tree in New Zealand. Another Kauri but taller than Tane but not as an impressive a girth. Its not the height its the width that is important apparently. Interestingly, at this spot you can also see New Zealands 7th biggest tree. Why would you want to though? And where the hell are the third, fourth, fifth and sixth biggest trees. So after tree hugging it was off back to the Bay of Islands for New Year.

It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time!!! - Auckland Harbour Swim Saturday 5th November

2005-11-22T06:48:00.000+11:00

Swimming from the North Shore to the Viaduct Harbour in Downtown Auckland is not something you can do everyday. So when the chance came about to take part in the annual Auckland Harbour Swim it seemed like a really good idea to sign myself up. After all its only 2.8km, and there is a pub at the end for added incentive. Easy Peasy!!!

Well my training had been going well. A week in Rotovegas on the booze, errr, schmoozing potential clients, was the ideal build up. A mad dash to the Warehouse to get me a cheap wetsuit on the Friday afternoon and i was all set.

It was an early start. The race starting on the north shore at 9.25am. About 900 people were foolish enough to sign up. Feeling a little nervous having seen just how far away the Viaduct Harbour is from the North Shore, matters weren't helped by a warning from the officials that a 2m swell was ripping up the centre of the harbour - anybody who was not confident in their ability should back out now!!! There was no question of that for me.

So i took the plunge. It was freezing. But my cheap wetsuit soon warmed me up. We had 15 minutes to do the first 400m - easy, and then we were out in the middle on our way to a celebratory pint at the other end. After struggling for what seemed hours i finally made it past the headland that sheltered the start from the elements. Then the swell struck.

To be honest it was quite a frightening experience. A km off shore in the middle of the harbour, fighting a 2m swell, not being able to see anything through your goggles, or over the tops of the waves. I felt totally isolated. It was a long way to go and i seemed to be making no headway what so ever. But giving up was not an option. To make matters worse my heap of sh*t wetsuit kept coming undone. It seems in a cost cutting drive by the Warehouse they had forgotten to put a zip on it that actually worked. I was constantly being flushed with freezing water and being dragged under by the weight trapped within the suit. Not a good experience. It must have come undone a good 10-12 times. The wetsuit was going back. Full refund please!!!

Anyway, i slowly progressed towards the calmer waters of the Viaduct. It seemed to take forever. 1hr 30mins after starting i was clambering out of the water to generous cheers and applaus to finish the race. Wow. What an experience. Congrats must go to Max and Melaina who completed it in under an hour!!! And the winner, and Olympian, did it in something silly like 33 minutes!!!

Bring out the Gimp!!!

Oh, one final thing. I got beaten by a dog. Gutted. Next time i will kick that mutts ass!!! Yep thats right, for all the scary moments and pain and effort it took i would definately do it again!!!

Rotorua - 1st November - 4th November

2005-11-07T16:02:00.000+11:00

Now before i start i want to assure everyone that it was a work conference and in no way, whatsoever a jolly. It was however a work conference that seemed to have a very definate theme. And that wasn't waste and contaminated land. I'll give you a clue.

Vicky doing a grand job at resupplying the troops

So there were four of us from MWH that convinced our bosses it was a good idea to let us out of the office, unsupervised, for nearly a week. So Max, Sarah, Vicky and myself headed to Rotorua and Wasteminz 2005.

After a somewhat rapid drive to Rotorua we landed at a steak house all in need of a good feed. And oh my god, it was awesome. I will hold my hand up and say it was easily the best steak i have ever had. Basically they bring you a slab of raw cow on a super heated stone platter. And then you cook your own steak to your liking at you table in front of you piece by piece. Awesome!!!

On Tuesday that conference started. Blah blah blah workshop and field trip but nobody cares about that. The real games began in the evening!!! A cultural dinner at the hotel. A 'Hungi' which means the food is cooked in the ground, this time, geothermally by steam. Sounds impressive but a little dissapointed by the 'traditional' Hungi being stainless steel. Hmmmmm.

A 'traditional' Hungi

And so onto the evenings entertainment. A Maori show with audience participation!!! Oh dear. First to take the plunge was Vicky with an impressive effort with the poy.

Vicky waving her ball on a string like a pro

Good value entertainment. The next act however was perhaps not quite as slick and choreographed. Somehow or other (the somehow being unfairly nominated by my colleagues) i was selected for a performance of the Haka. Now not knowing any Maori what so ever, and not being the most co-ordinated chap the performance is not going to be up for any awards. And my fiercest warrior look was interupted by the giggles and a cheesy grin. Although i am sure some people were frightened!!!

Oooooh, Scary!!!

After the fun and frolics of the haka, it was time to hit the town and have a few shandies. We would get to know the Lava Bar quite well over the next few days!!!

Wednesday gave us an insight on how to operate at a conference with only a few hours sleep. What we learned here would see us through for the rest of the week. After all, tuesday night was just a warm up for the the wednesday night.

Dinner overlooking the mudpools and a geyser were on the cards. The sulphur smell aside, which you get used to, it was a super impressive venue for dinner. Wow is all i can say. Outside, having a fab time sitting next to a glooping mud pool and a spewing geyser. It was surreal but amazing. Its something i will remember for a long time.

Trust me, this pic does not do it justice. It was amazing!!!

Thursday was THE day. Luge day. After a shaky start (all Vicky's fault) and a small amount of schmoozing we headed off to find the infamous luge. It had been recommended to me by some paddling mates. Nothing else is worth going to in Rotorua they said. You know what, they may well be right. Hooning down a concrete path on a 3 wheeled tea tray is certainly an experience. Just remember, 'rubbin is racin' haha!!! What fun. 5 runs in total. A nice easy warm up on the beginner track then we hit the intermediate slopes. After a few wobbles i think we all got the hang of it and the games began.

It seemed to be an unofficial destruction derby. Last man standing with dirty tactics (Max) and several near misses. It was inevatable that someone would come a cropper. That cropper was me, with a more than a little help from max. Full on RTA. Multiple vehicles involved (oh the memories - lets not go there). I have the scars to prove it. Not really sure what happened to be honest, but i have an impressive road rash on my right buttock!!! Awesome.

The daring Luge team

And so to the final dinner. A formal affair in a wool shed. Only in New Zealand i guess. A quick game of guess the sheep and then it was down to business. Bring on the wine. We had a list of 29 to get through. It would be a long night. Go hard or go home!!!! Some us however went a little too hard and took the fast track to chundersville - Duncan. An impressive display by a true Scot. But that photo has no place on here!!!! What a night. It finished in that favourite Rotovegas haunt - the Lava Bar.

One of the stars of the week!!!

Wow - What a week. A week i will not forget for a long time!!!

Not a bad place for a job

2005-10-03T15:30:00.000+10:00

Last week i headed off to sunny Gisborne on the east coast of the North Island. I was there to investigate an old petrol station site. Can't really say much more about that, but the view at sunset wasn't half bad. Not a bad place for a job at all.

One Hard Point anyone?

2005-09-26T17:30:00.000+10:00

This is at the get in to the Wiaroa in the Hunua Ranges just to the south of Auckland. 30m high, never been run. In flood. And there is a line, a nice tongue dead centre. Errrrr, right.

I'll give you one hard point - and one and a half if you hammer of it!!!

Snowboarding - Mt Ruapehu

2005-09-05T14:48:00.000+10:00

This weekend i went snowboarding. It was awesome. It was organised by the social club from work (thanks Nicola and Celeste). We stayed in a town called Ohakune which is on the southern side of Mt Ruapehu. A five hour drive from Auckland is all it takes!!! All it takes eh? The drive is epic!!! Roads in NZ are not the best!!!

Now i can't snowboard, or ski, infact the only thing i know how to do in snow (besides right my name in it on the way back from the pub using certain bodily functions) is make snowballs. For this reason i thought i had best book a lesson or two.

The gear was hired, the lesson was booked, i hit the slopes!!! Well the learner slope. A few blasts (read crashes) later i was standing in line for the snow school and before i knew it the lesson had begun. All the basics were covered. And then we were let loose on the slopes. Well i stayed on the beginner slope. But all was cool. Such good fun. I seem to be quite good at going super fast downhill. Awesome. Oh, and it was suprisingly hard work. I was shattered by the end of day one. Although this could be to with having to walk to the top of the slope each time having not quite mastered the drag lift!!!

The View from the top - Mt Taranaki

The saturday night was pretty epic too. Tri-nations rugby, beer, food, dancing. It certainly made for a few painkillers the next morning. Ah a nice hangover, just what you need for learning to snowboard with!!!!

With the head a bit fuzzy i hit the slopes again on sunday. This time i took the 'next step' lesson. This was supposed to get me turning and carving. Hmmmmm. Well i can turn well one the heel side of the board, but going the other way is somewhat problematic. I just seem to end up pointing down hill and gathering alot of speed. By this point i am going way to fast to turn. All good fun though - but perhaps not the best technique. Lesson over, and after a few more practice runs i was growing in confidence so i decided to hit the higher slopes. Although i stayed on the beginner runs, it was a bit steeper and the drag lift was a smidge more aggressive. Yet more walking up the slope!!! I was definately improving in the speed department - by now i could go super fast!!!!

The slopes

Anyway, it was a awesome weekend. And i am definately going to do it again!!!

The Mighty Huka

2005-08-10T14:58:00.000+10:00

The mighty Huka Falls - anywhere other than river left is most definately sub-optimal!!!

The mighty Huka Falls on the Waikato River flowing out of Lake Taupo. Is it runnable? Well yes its been done before. And i am sure it will be done again. But will it be done by me - errrrr, well we shall see. It's a bit of a monster. The line is definately river left, down the tongue. Anywhere else would definately be sub- optimal. The lead in seems to be the main issue. A couple of nice holes to gobble you up if you are not careful. Swimming is not an option. And interestingly, about 15m upstream from the lip of the fall, middle of the river, there is a really really sweet wave. However, i think if you played on this you would also surely hold the world record for having the worlds biggest balls!!! In which case you would need a special kayak to carry them!!!

Polo Down Under

2005-08-09T14:38:00.000+10:00

This weekend was my first taste of a polo comp NZ style. I was playing for Auckland in the North Island friendly competition held in Taupo. Taupo is freezing. It was proper winter down there (middle of the North Island) not the psuedo winter Auckland gets. I was glad that the comp was being held indoors. The comp was also an opportunity to test out my new (2nd hand) polo boat in anger. I am now the proud owner of a Vampire 2001 in black. Needs a little tlc, but nowhere near as much as my last polo boat.

So the polo then. Well i didn't get to play that much. My teams 3rd game in on saturday I, well actually the opposition managed to dislocate my right ring finger. Ouch - it smarted somewhat! Apparently paddle fouls don't exist in NZ. Well thats what it seems anyway. Interestingly, you are also allowed to push people onto other boats. Now i am not an expert in the rules (as my record of getting crads will justify), but i am pretty sure you are not allowed to push people onto boats (can someone clarify this for me please - Elan? Ceri?). In the NZ rules however it states that being pushed onto the deck of an opponent is considered a legal tackle and should not be penalised. Well fair enough i guess, as it is not that dangerous - IF it is only onto the deck. But players seem to read this as 'you can bin people onto or into any part of the boat'. And the refs just seem to let it happen. I saw several nasty instances that could have caused bad injury, yet the ref seemed to be perfectly happy. I guess i will just have to get used to it. Anyway, on with the comp.

The team played really well and only narrowly lost a few games. We ahould have won more - but going 3-0 up at half time and then losing 4-5 is not acceptable. We paid for many a result like this by bringing up the rear in the standings. Ah well. It was a good laugh - while it lasted for me anyway.

A variation of the Hoonerburger - an inverted 4G negative dive Hoonerburger perhaps?

Practical Transport for a City? - errr, not really

2005-08-09T13:59:00.000+10:00

Well it is now August so i have been here for over a month now and i am settling in nicely.

I have moved into a house in Mt Eden, a suburb of Auckland. The location is superb. Close to town and about 25 minutes drive from work. The house is also fantastic, if a little chilly. The New Zealanders don't seem to believe in central heating. We have one gas fire in the lounge and the rest of the heating is provided by thick wooly jumpers. Its not too bad though, and for winter i think it is boardering on a heat wave!!! Others would disagree.

My House - Its behind the tree!!!

Right, my house mates. Well i am living with 3 gorgeous girls. Heidi, Jamie and Tracy. They are a great laugh and have made my transition to NZ painless and simple. My only reservation about these guys is their obsessive watching of NZ Idol, Shortland Street and Footballers Wives on tv. Thankfully the latter has now finished, but I am still stuck with NZ Idol and 'Shorties'!!!

I also now have my own transport. I have a truck. The budget for my new car wasn't enourmous, but I was pointed in the direction of Ellerslie Car Fair. Every sunday morning, anybody selling a car can turn up at Ellerslie Racecourse and sell their car. I was expecting a few cars to be there, but that few turned out to be hundreds, of all shapes, sizes, ages, makes, types, everything. After an hour or so of mooching around i was drawn to the 4x4's (after i deliberately ignored them at the start of my quest). And there it was. A Toyota Hilux Surf. What a beast - 3.0L V6 with all the trimmings. A little worn and battle hardened shall we say, but it goes well and everything works. It was mine!!! How practical for a city!!!

The Beast!!!

I am still waiting for my stuff to arrive from the UK so my room is a little baron at the moment. I am getting by though. I am only really missing my paddling kit - i want to go paddling - and some tunes. But hey, it will be here in a few weeks - if it gets through customs that is!!! I am also looking forward to getting my bike here. As it comes into summer i can dodge the traffic, cut through the park to work (One Tree Hill) and stop getting cake fined at work for being totally unsustainable by cruising around in my fuel guzzling beast!!!

Things here are pretty cheap. But i guess that is partly because in some ways i am still working to UK living. I got a new stereo for my truck last week. Was considering the total pimp out with a sub and an amp but couldn't bring myself round to the Tim Tits school of driving sounds. It is dead cheap over here as imports come direct from Japan. The damn thing took me a whole day for fit and wire up. I had to dismantle the entire dashboard to get it in. But i now have the piece of mind that if anyone tries to nick the stereo in the night, they will still be there in the morning trying to figure out how to get the damn thing out. And you know how you take something apart, not really knowing how, and then rebuild it, again not really knowing how, and then you get the odd bit left over. Well i managed to rebuild my dash minus 3 bolts and a random cable and connector (a little worrying). At the moment everything is working fine though.

New Zealand Baby!!!

2005-07-05T09:16:00.000+10:00

Well i have finally made it. I am in Auckland. City of sails. After several weeks of goodbyes in the UK it is detox time here in NZ. And what better time to do it than in the middle of a Lions tour in the middle of winter!!! Well, i think that is enough about the Lions. Less said the better - although the kiwi folk are dead friendly, and enjoying (hmmmm or not) the rugby at the Barmy Army HQ in the Viaduct (harbour area) is certainly an experience.

So what is it like here. Well it is big. 2nd biggest city area wise in the world apparently. Doesn't suprise me. It is huge. This is due to every single property being a detactched house with a garden. No inner city terraces here. Quite nice really. Just takes a while to get around. Oh and Auckland is built on several volcanoes. These make for good viewspots of the city. And there are several more volcanoes forming islands out in the gulf of whwetjhwfuygfw or whatever it is (Not up to speed with Moari yet). And it is these volcanoes in the gulf that are due to blast next. Cool.

So at the moment i am still motelling it. Bit of a pain now but i move into my house in Mt Eden on sunday. I am sharing with 3 girls. Hmmmmm, should be interesting. And seeing as the room is somewhat smaller than back in Cardiff it is sure going to be fun trying to fit everything in. Its a nice house. Wooden villa, big open living space, electric cooker in the kitchen (annoying but it seems the norm over here) and no heating (again, no heating seems to be totally normal over here. But then they all complain about being cold. Hmmmm).

Sorry there are no photos yet. Not got my computer here with me. It is hopefully somewhere oceany (south Atlantic? Indian ocean?) on its way here. Thats if the Rusky boat captain can find his way to NZ through his vodka fuelled haze. (Pirate pete and all that!!!)

Well there we go. Thats it for now. All seems good here. Although i am still struggling a little with being upside down!!!

The Lions Adventure Begins

2005-05-28T00:34:00.000+10:00

The British and Irish Lions played a 'warm up' test match at the Millennium Stadium. Bish, Fran, Dave and i were lucky eneough to get hold of some tickets and see witness the action. The opponents for the Lions were the Argies. And a weakened side at that so hopes were high of a resounding victory. Afterall the team can call on guys that are amongst the best 45 rugby players in Britain and Ireland right? Well, err, yeah, but a resounding victory it was not!!!

With the action underway it was the Argies that drew first blood with a well worked try that was certainly not in the script. The Lions seemed to be struggling to string phases together and conceeded too many penalties within kicking range, which were duly converted by the inform Pumas fly half.

The Lions remained in touch thanks to good play from Jonny and Ollie Smith resulting in a good try. However this seemed like the only try the Lions would score as there were just too many errors. Perhaps a sign of a team that had not played together much before.

The rest was really a kicking contest between Jonny and the Argies. Although a few good line breaks got the crowd going the finishing pass or move just wan't there. But it was a good game for Jonny, and looking at this i think he may well have secured his spot in the test team.

Oh and by the way, what on earth is the Lions anthem about - the power of four. Whatever!!!

Canoe Polo - 22nd-24th April 2005

2005-04-26T00:21:00.000+10:00

It was time again for the BUSA Canoe Polo Chamionships at Hatfield Water Park in Doncaster. Although a student competition, an Open League was set up for University old boy teams, and anyone else who cared to enter. I entered a Cardiff Old Boys team, comprising of Old Cardiff uni club members and a couple of folk from the local welsh polo club, Aberfan.

The weekend started off with a slight hiccup having discovered the boats didn't fit in the panel van. Well Done!!! It wouldn't be a canoe club weekend without a certain degre (read: alot) of faff. Anyways, up to Doncaster we went. Many beers later it was time for bed. It was freezing. That will learn me for camping in April with a 2 season sleeping bag!!!

Saturday dawned and it was bright and sunny. The girls and the uni team were on early, but the Old Boys had the luxury of a much needed lie in to nurse the hangovers. Our games didn't start till 1.30pm. Bliss. However, being the athletes we are, a warm up was scheduled for midday. Out came the beers, and a few games of polo were watched. Throughout the afternoon the team performed flawlessly - the warm up worked wonders obviously!!!

Only one close call where we managed to miss the start of the game and played one half with only 4 players. The cavalry arrived for the second half and we went on to win 5-1 against Warwick uni Olds. So four games down on saturday and four wins. Top performance and well pleased. We were through to the quarters on the sunday. Time for more beer!!!

Sunday came and it was an even better day than the saturday. Warm and sunny. Perfect for polo. Our quarter final match was against Leeds White Rose. A cagey affair, hard fought, and sometimes not played strictly within the rules. All good fun though. 2-2 at full time after a wonder goal from the half way from Rob saw it go to golden goal extra time. Tense. Still 2-2 so down to penalties. Three pens a peice were saved, including mine. All square after the first round so to sudden death. Would you belive it, mr polo himself Elan Winter was the culprit. His was saved. We were out. Now, i am not going to instill a blame culture here, but if Elan had scored we would have won, so, i guess its his fault!!! haha!

So that was it, the dream was over. A play off lead to Cardiff coming a respectable, but a little dissapointing 5th out of 20. Ah well. It was a top weekend (although alot of the reffing was extremely dubiuos). Good to catch up with old buddies from the polo world.

At Last i go to Cornwall

2005-04-04T20:30:00.000+10:00

After much nagging and with an eventual window opening up in my busy (read: work, eat, sleep and occasionally paddle)life i managed to get down to Cornwall to visit Jennas home in Goonbell, St Agnes. Really nice place. And the weather was stunning. It made the coast and the see very mediterranean, which sadly meant no surf, but crystal clear waters instead. I did discover however the sea was no where near as warm as the Med though!!!

Just like the Med

So with no surf, other forms of entertainment on the beach had to be found. Kite fling was attempted, but lack of serious wind halted that, so it was left to sand dune surfing. Note:- remember to close mouth when face planting the beach at speed!!! Gritty teeth for ages. And i am still finding sand in my wallet, pocket, ears.....nice!!!!

A top weekend

yummy!!!

Scotland 2005 - 19th March to 28th March

2005-04-01T22:44:00.000+10:00

Over Easter i went to Scotland with Cardiff University Canoe Club. We stayed in Glencoe Bunkhouses, a mile or so down the road from the wonderful Clachaig Inn. For 10 days the mission was to hunt out water, paddle, then retire to the pub for plenty of tale telling and beer swilling antics. I think myself and everyone else on the trip managed all of this with ease. Although in my case there seemed to be more swimming than paddling!!! haha!!!

The weather was stunning on the first day of paddling. We took on the mighty Arkaig. And swim no. 1 for me. Whoops, but i can honestly say my deck popped. But all the same i felt like a right tool. Nice little warm up, and it confirmed that there was plenty of water in the rivers!!!

Next stop the Orchy. A really good river with sections for all and some for no-one (Barbie it really doesn't go!!!). Yes Barbie added to the swim tally. Whoops. He even had to swim back into the undercut to retreive his boat!!! But on a rope this time. Ha ha!!!