Awesome NZ - Part 1

This weekend we drove up to New Plymouth again to stay with our lovely friends in their lovely house. The weekend kicked off as previously- we were greeted with dinner and drinks on Friday night, then drove to the beach on Saturday morning to walk the dog. The weather was absolutely stunning- beautiful blue skies and sunshine, and I was far too hot in all my layers. By the end of the walk, we had all taken off our jackets and hoodies and were strolling along in t-shirts, which is amazing for mid winter.

Winter Sun

Jon & Si

Using a rope ladder to get down to the beach

One of the reasons for going up to Taranaki this weekend was that Simon and Emma had got us tickets for the All Blacks game that was being played in New Plymouth. It was the third test in the Steinlager series against France, and a fantastic opportunity to see the All Blacks play live. We headed into town late afternoon to have a few beers and soak up the atmosphere, then got a coach up to the ground. Despite how warm it had been when we went out with the dog, we didn't take any chances and got wrapped up in thermals, hats, scarves, gloves and coats! The highlight for me was definitely watching them do the Haka. The rest of the match was good fun to watch too, even if we didn't have a clue what was going on half the time!

Emma & Jon (nice hat BTW)

The Haka

After the game we (along with thousands of others supporters) went back to the pub to celebrate the win and toast a great day out with friends.