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- NEW ZEALAND -- I'll update this blog as I travel around the North and South islands of the country. The story so far:<br /><br />-- MANUKAU, AUCKLAND --<br /><br />...seeing as I landed here in Auckland NZ on the 28th January, my recollection of events are blurred and incoherent though probably more consise. In any case, the fact that my intended three week stay in NZ has already extended to more than double that time, says much for itself...

Aotearoa - Land of the Long White Cloud

Asha Patel
2006-02-27 19:50:21

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That evening, Anesh drove me to the farm to meet the horses and fowl of which he is so fond. My first 'play' with horses was amazing. We ended the day with a bubbling hot spa outdoors under the stars....

Later that week, Anesh drove to the farm again, and under his supervision I rode Ralph round the paddock. Was difficult to mount and climb, but well worth the effort.

I was also fortunate enough to be driven around town by Deven (thanks D)! Starting the day at midday, we did well with the tourist checklist - the Sky Tower in central Auckland, Mt. Eden, One Tree Hill and the Auckland National Museum... Active as the day had been, I did rise to the challenge of playing hockey at the Auckland grounds. Kitted out with shin pads, socks, and a stick... it took some cajoling before I made it onto the turf! Got whacked and wet on the water based turf but.. we won.

...picnic dinner at the beach today. feeling full as we returned home, I wondered whether I had room for dessert.. always! My first taste of kiwi pavlova, topped with cream, chocolate and kiwi fruit and accompanied by the sharp taste of boysenberries...

Horse-riding and hockey haven't been the only things keeping me active here. As at home, I make a conscious effort to go running. Equipped with running shoes, I run whenever possible. With the wonderful surrounding scenery and all the desserts I have been indulging in, there is simply no excuse. I have been running regularly, though inconsistently here. Having never been accustomed to the steep gradients, my calves were aching and stiff as they adjusted to the new pressure. Still, the amazing landscape and the entertaining animals along the way kept me going and there was always the spa to soothe any stiffness away at the end of a good run!

-- DEVENPORT --

...Auckland lies on a narrow volcanic isthmus between two huge natural harbours facing two oceans. With thousands of enthusiastic ...