As I often do, I will start with "not much to write about" ... and then doubtless ramble on for longer than most people can bear.
So since my my last post, with exception of a damn fine birthday celebration in Auckland city centre, not a great deal has happened. But then I think that must be a good sign of us just slowly sliding into a gentle way of life, by the beach! Doesn't sound too bad. Will we want to come home?
Having said all that we have managed to spend another couple of fabulous days with Gareth and Sue if for no other reason than to spread out our birthday celebrations to cover each of them - which means a whole fortnight of birthday!
A late afternoon stroll round The Viaduct - basically Auckland's harbour where all the flash boats are kept, and the flash restaurants are too - ended (of course) with a beer or two.
And that was followed by a spectacular meal overlooking the harbour at the Soul Bar & Bistro.
As the manager and, it appeared to us, half the staff were ex-pupils of Gareth or Sue, we were given the royal treatment; best table in the house; extra amuse bouche; sneaky little desserts; and Happy Birthday plates!!! With candles! (well, one - 42 would have been silly!)
Either side of this momentous day we have strolled again on beaches, drunk in coffee shops and had a few sundowners in the local bars. So don't feel too sorry for us!
And my foot is now recovered enough to manage the walk from our bay to Murray's Bay. Along the walkway only passable at low tide.
Well that's about it for now. It was actually quite short! A few pictures to bring this thing up to date.
Today's stroll through Milford harbour (not the famous one - that's Milford Sound on the South Island). Followed by coffee, obvs!
Carwyn (Gareth and Sue's son) and Kelly, joining us for dinner to celebrate birthdays.
Murray's Bay
Part of the curriculum? Kiwi children learning to sail. While we close our swimming pools - oh, let's not start! We saw surfing lessons the other day too.
Jones, looking as big an eejit as me!
42!!!!!! In your dreams.
All far too cool for school. However, the Corkies will now be in town to mess up this serenity.