New Beginnings in New Zealand

Arriving in Wellington was a little strange, as it was the first time in quite a few flights that we didn't have a friend waiting for us at the airport. But everyone we came across when we arrived was so friendly and helpful that it didn't matter too much. Before we knew it, a helpful chap had shown us where to pick up our bikes (they arrived!), sped us through customs (I didn't get arrested for carrying a cereal bar!) and we were sitting in a taxi en route to our accommodation (with the bikes neatly stored in a trailer behind us).

We've been spending this week getting to know Wellington, and doing a bit of house hunting. We'd already done some research online, but it's been so helpful to actually visit the different suburbs. For example, looking at places online really doesn't give you an idea of how hilly Wellington is!! But we soon found out after cycling uphill for 30 minutes to go and look at a property. The views were stunning but it nearly killed me! Needless to say, we didn't go for that one......

Great view from Kelburn, but not worth the effort!



It's also been a week of birthdays. It was Jon's birthday on Tuesday, and so we went out for a curry. You can imagine our delight when the food was fantastic- we got chatting to the owner, who said that the reason their curry is so good is because "the chefs have over 15 years experience working in......Leicester!" We'll definitely be going back there. It was also Em's birthday on Wednesday- the Big 4-0! I'm gutted that I'm not at home to help her celebrate, but at least I got to call her on FaceTime. We don't have Internet access in the apartment, but there is free Wifi out on the streets of the CBD. It wasn't a brilliant signal, but enough to wish her a Fabulous 40th.