We began our first New Year in New Zealand at a bar in Papamoa blown away by the wind, but as you can see, determined to see the New Year in al fresco.
The weather continued to be perfect for Jack and Beth's stay.
Perfect for fun and games at the beach.
And a dip or two in the sea.
We were walking along the beach and saw some sharks circling in the water! Unfortunately, I was not quick enough with the camera, so here is the scene recreated!
We also came across this other predator of the animal kingdom.
AND NO, WE ARE NOT GETTING A HANDBAG DOG!
A nice group shot, taken by Molly.
Some cracking waves that day!
Well surfed! -straight through the old chap's legs!
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| You can see who caught the wave and who is being wiped out! |
A beautiful day for the triathlon at The Mount.
You can see why the cruise liner has a pit stop here.
Two happy hikers about a third of the way up The Mount.
"Are we there yet?"
You will smile for the picture, I don't care how hot it is!
Now wasn't that worth the view.
Dad and eldest daughter on top of the world.
I know the height doesn't bear a family resemblance, but the crossed arms do!
A rare picture of Jack and Beth being forced to show sibling affection.
The ascent of The Mount was followed by a trip to Lake Taupo via Te Puke (pronounced Tee Pookie), centre of the Kiwi fruit industry.
No prizes for guessing who was first in the lake!
Gangster Moll.
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| Out on the boat with Gary and Audrey. |
Gary was fantastic sharing his toys!
Beth at home in a rash vest, so far from the winter woolies of the cotswolds.
More lessons in water safety.At last, driving on his own!
Molly listening.......... whatever next?
Yes, she really did control it.
No hands!
And still no grey hairs for Mr Collins!
Then some relaxation after all that speed.
Did someone really think it was a good idea for me to show my daughter respect for powerful, fast transport?
Like Father, like Daughter!
Another day, another toy.
The girls are transported in style down to the lake.
And then traverse Lake Taupo very, very, quickly.
Well done Jack, who actually managed to get out of bed on the second day and didn't miss the water sports.
The splash is Molly!
Sisters, sisters, there were never such devoted sisters.
A real double act!
Our next day trip was to Te Puia in Rotorua, centre of Maori culture and volcanic activity.
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A Marai (Maori Meeting House), complete with Maori warriors welcoming us. |
A Maori war canoe.
Jack, Beth and Molly with unnamed legless man. (Not me)
This reminded me of someone I know......
I can't think who!
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| The Geyser was pretty spectacular |
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A sensible photo.
And one with Molly.
It's taken a few days of burning, but Jack is now wearing a hat.
How much love can you get in one picture?
Wannabe Supremes, Stop!
This is not Loo's cooking, but a foul smelling volcanic mud pool.
More volcanic delights.
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A statue symbolising Maori heaven.
Just time for a quick pose in front of the Marai before going home.
What's this flying in over The Mount?
It looks like surf rescue....
I recognise that person in the middle!
Yes, it's none other than David Hasslehoff.
Most of the inhabitants of The Bay of Plenty had turned out to see the Baywatch star......
.....including these.
Still got the magic Hoff!
Who is that in the background?
Yes, I was there, but only to photograph the Hoff, those promotion girls do get in the way!
Unfortunately, it was then time to say goodbye to Jack and Beth until next Christmas. So it was back up to Auckland to drop them off and find a house to move to.
Molly saw her screen idol on the way up and had to stop for a pose.
Beth did similar with a very large bottle of a New Zealand delicacy called Lemon and Paeroa (lemonade made with mineral water from the town of Paeroa-pronounced Pie-roar)
A tearful goodbye at the Auckland International.
Then more house hunting.
We finally found our new home- hopefully for a couple of years at least!
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The beautiful beach is only a few minutes walk away |
And Molly and the flamingoes are already, right at home!
Bye for now,
Kevin.
