Light travel

Euro An Australian View

2011-12-13T12:24:00.000+11:00

An interesting View from the other side of the world.

I found this quite funny.

Maybe the French and the Germans need to view themselves as others see them.

The article is written by Elizabeth Knight, printed in the, "The Sydney Morning Herald" business day on Monday the 12th 2011.

Please note I have edited and shortened from the original article.

Euro zone Parents get tough as family quarrel heats up

In the parlance of parenthood, the latest master plan to save Europe from economic annihilation is about the German and French parents imposing boundaries on the poorly behaved smaller children in the European union.
They set out their parental plan in Brussels at the weekend; a strict set of fiscal parameters all need to abide by.
In theory its sounds fine. The Kids cant't spend more then there allocated "Pocket Money" and there are penalties for non-compliance.
But re-educating headstrong, profligate European Nations that have long done whatever they want might have all manner of problems.
"Kids don't always abide by the rules"
The southern Europeans have no experience of living within their mean-that's why they are in their financial mess.
For Australia this is not the kind of family relationship that augurs well for anyone's future.

Comments?

Sydney Birthday Treat

2011-12-09T13:13:00.000+11:00

My Big Birthday Treat

When we came to Sydney I knew that I wanted to climb the Harbour bridge, so to make it special we booked it for my 50th Birthday.
On the day of the climb we walked to the bridge as our climb was at 11.15am, making sure to have breakfast first which is one of the rules of the climb, as we will be out here for 3 hours in total. The girl at the desk checked us in and said " you could climb now at 10.45" we looked at each other and decided no, it would be a rush and we needed to chill before we went (Having just walked there!!!) "No worries" just go to the gate at 11am to get kitted out for your walk.

We climbed the stairs and waited outside door 1. A very friendly girl called Shelly our climb leader opened it and welcomed us in, we had to fill out a form with our details and have a breath test..(no alcohol breath allowed on climb) we all passed that one. Then through another door, there were about 11 of us in our group and we had to introduce ourselves and say why we were there, I proudly told them it was a birthday treat!! other people had their reasons too. Our suits were given to us and as the humidity was 80% they advised us to strip down to our underwear and then put on the suit!!
We were then kitted up with all the other stuff needed to climb, utility belt with safety cable on which was also clipped, a radio, fleece, waterproof jacket, Our own sunglasses were attached, a hanky and most importantly our free hat. We put our other stuff in a locker and we were ready to go...just had to do the simulation test for the kind of ladders we would be on and how to coax the safety cable through some places.

Still feeling a little apprehensive we walked through the tunnel which lead us out to the first part of the climb, with one last safety check down to make sure we had everything attached Shelly lead us out.... our first part was walking under the pylons above the road, this was not too bad..next we had to squeeze and duck through some tight bits then had to CLIMB up 3 sets of ladders which were small narrow steps and vertical then we could start the CLIMB!!!

This is the start of the climb up the bridge, still enjoying it!!!

Halfway up, great views Circular Quay behind and Opera House to the right

Nearly there!!!!

Getting ready for a group photograph!!!

When we were at the top everyone sang "Happy Birthday" to me it was fun, even on a cloudy day the views are brilliant!!

Across the top and start of the way down.

My other Special treat was this...........

Yes a Tattoo its great!!!!

Small and pretty,

It was something I wanted to remind me of my Birthday and this great time that we are having travelling together.

Tasmania

2011-12-04T13:58:00.000+11:00

Our week in
Tasmania

Well a week in Tasmania watch out for the short runway landing on a windy bumpy day, pick up a compact Hyundai car, alot smaller than the Audi A4 we just handed back in Melbourne, off now to Hobart, capital of Tasmania, as with the Hotel Henry Jones ref to our previous blogg.

Aim of the trip is west coast drive from Hobart to Launceston via Strahan and Cradle Mountain.
Hobart population approx 200k felt like a country town, water water everywhere not a drop to drink, no wonder we sent prisoners here from the other side of the world, another story to be told later. A short walk from the hotel across the harbour, full of fishing boats, large yachts racing in the bay such a windy day. abundance of resturants, cafes, bars and art boutiques and shops, so much to take in you'll enjoy the place and we haven't even walked into the town centre.

A trip to Port Arthur, 90k from Hobart by car relaxing scenic drive, you wouldn't believe it's only 26 nautical miles if you went in a straight line, as I said water water everywhere how else would you keep prisoners in there lair. On the way we found plenty of photo opportunities around Eaglehawk Neck, Waterfall bay and O'Hara Bluff, Tasmania has it's very own version of Ireland Giants Causeway, called Tessellated Pavement State Reserve.

Tasmans Arch

<<<<<<
<<<<<< Devils Kitchen ?
<<<<<<

Port Arthur

What a mistake we made thinking this is just a fishing village with a little convict history, how wrong we were !!!! shows how much history England has, that isn't really touched on, in School.
Included in the entry price was a harbour cruise around the 2 islands, 1 island of the dead, the other was were the boys were held and taught a trade.

We were given a playing card that is matched up with a prisoner, so you can follow his life around. There is a 45 minute tour guide, he didn't talk about each building time date and what went on but gave a very individual account of history of the site, lives of the prisoners, how they survived, escaped were recaptured and the punishment plus how the system made craftsman out of the inmates,while walking us across the grounds. I (Mark) wish this guy had been my history teacher he is a very good story teller.

After the talk he left us to do our own thing and wander around, there not many intact buildings, what buildings you can go in show in detail the life the people, ie, prisoners, army garrison, wives, children and the church.

For us the building most spooky is the isolation block, were the prisoners held in a small cell in the dark they were not allowed to speak or even look at the guards or each other, this was the most feared of the punishments even the lash / cat of 9 tails did not hold the same fear.

It was a very informative and interesting day.

Strahan

Our next adventure was to drive to Strahan, which would take us about 3 hours driving through National Park along the Lyell Highway once outside the Hobart area there are not many towns to pass through, we headed for Queenstown which took us up high into the rain forest along twisty roads. We stopped at a lookout point high above Queenstown and the first thing that hits you is how bare the landscape is, this is to do with the mining and the oxidisation of the rock, which has turn it pink, but the other thing is there are no trees, as we drop down into Queens town you can see how isolated this town is!!!
We had a walk around Queenstown and a coffee to refresh us before the drive to Strahan.
Strahan village is set on a quiet bay of Macquarie Harbour on Tasmania's west coast gateway to the magnificent Gordon river. We were here for 1 night, we settled into our small chalet and walked into the village, population of less than 2,000 for something to eat.
Look the English weather is not all that bad here is an overview of Strahan's weather : Summer temp peaks at 20 degrees celsius, with about 200mm of rainfall...Winter temp 5.5 degrees max 12, with 650mm of rain..you have to be ready for all these changes in the weather..Even we had the rain while walking back to our chalet....

Next day we collected our tickets and boarded the Lady Franklin 11 for our 6 hours cruise down the Gordon River..it was a lovely WET day!!! but we were told it will clear...We went along banks of dense rainforest unchanged for thousands of years, cruised through the harbours narrow entrance 'Hells Gate' a once treacherous stretch of water, passing fish farms that produce salmon and trout. The river is stained amber by the buttongrass tannins but is still pure to drink.
We had two stops along the way..Heritage landing where you can walk into the rainforest and see the 2000 year old Huon pines, the lady who was telling us about the rainforest was insistent that this place was different than other rainforest's.."look up what can you see?"she said we all said the sky.."no its simpler than that" ......the leaves are smaller!!!!
Our next stop was Sarah Island site of a feared penal colony..we were taken around this place by a fantastic guide who not only retold the story of this place, but actually included us in the story.. she was excellent, and it also tied in with Port Arthur on the penal history.

Buttongrass Tannins.

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain is one of Australia's Wilderness experiences, in Lake St Claire National Park, a place to just relax unwind and forget about the hustle and bustle of normal life. With a lounge full of deep leather chairs and a crackling log fire, were you can sit and read a book or even have nap.( Like an old Gentleman's club)
We had a pencil pine cabin, with a bushland view and our own fire...cosy....
There are over 20 different walks that you can take around the National park, ranging from 20mins to 2 days in length. A night walk to spot local animals, the lake walk for spectacular views of Cradle Mountain.
We spent a relaxing 2 nights here and we walked for 3 hours on the walking tracks...

Cradle Mountain wild life just outside
our cabin door.
How Cute...............................................

Sheffield
A very scenic run to this small town of approx 1800 people, one good reason for visiting here is it's vibrant artistic community with its streetscape art gallery of spectacular murals.
We explored the town through the art / mural walk this took about 45 minutes.
Here are a sample of the murals that are around the town.

And there's more..........

Now on to Launceston / Tamar Valley

This place is called the 'Garden city' being a place of parks and gardens, with beautiful Victorian streetscapes and architecture. The best thing that we found on our walk was Cataract Gorge, a hidden valley only minutes from the city. You walk along the face of the gorge or take a more adventurous zig zag track that is more appealing to hikers, as it climbs up high above the Gorge which opens out into a reserve that unless you get out and walk you would not find although you can access by car. We were surprised to find it at the end of our walk. There were people crossing the gorge on chairlifts or you can just walk around it. A swimming pool, you can swim in the river as we witnessed a group of teens doing exactly that.
Peacocks greeted us with their loud calls, and beautiful displays of their tails. It was like a hidden world with lots of people enjoying it.

Now on to Sydney to top up our suntans

Hobart Hot

2011-11-30T16:59:00.000+11:00

Henry Jones Art Hotel Hobart.

What a great start to our Tasmania trip, arrived by plane waited at the carousel for our 2 suit cases, spotted Jeannettes case, waited and waited my case not in sight, ask if there were any more to come, no that was it, we were pointed in the direction of the check-in desk to log the missing case, which was all I needed, a whole week in the same clothes or having to buy replacements.
Having dug out my boarding pass which had my case reference number on it, when Jeannette shouted "there's your case by the checking desk," "how's that" I said, the guy behind the desk said "is this your case?" Yes why is it here?" "Oh my fault I should have put out an announcement for you, the case came in on the earlier flight." What a relief......

Now to pick up the car and drive into Hobart, an easy trip in to the Hotel, which is a converted dock warehouse, parked in front and went through 2 huge glass sliding doors to the foyer and reception, we booked in with the reception guy, who was very nice and asked if we had a good trip, he also gave us the map of the town pointed out places of interest, I asked "were can I park the car?" "Don't worry about that we have a car valet service, we will park your car and bring your bags up to the room, you go up and settle in and any time you need your car just give us 5 minutes to get it." he said.

We went up in the lift and walked to our room all the room numbers were illuminated on the floor and loads of beams and art work along each corridor.......

What a room, it really does give you that 'wow' factor......... I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.

His & Hers Showers

Ps Mark Webber will be here at the Henry Jones Art Hotel first week in December.

A Day Around Melbourne

2011-11-22T22:52:00.000+11:00

After booking our bus ticket for the airport we went to explore the hustle and bustle of Melbourne City, with its busy streets and lots of different sights and sounds from trains, trams, cars, fire engine sirens and hoards of people crossing streets.

Armed with our street map we walked towards the 'Victoria Markets' once there we were amazed at the size of the market with stalls selling everything from leather belts, bags, clothes, jewellery and souvenir kangaroos and fruit and veg, the place was very busy. Not sure were to start so we walked up and down the isles dodging in and out of the crowds. There is so much to see food markets selling pasta and olives, cold meats, sausages, fresh meat and fish, huge crabs and snappers. This is the place to buy your food they were even catering for lunches. Once back out side the next thing we saw was the fruit and veg stalls, traders calling out selling their produce it was magical have never seen so much and such different varieties of veg and fruit in one place before.

Now back to the centre a rest outside the state library. Our next decision, is to ride the circular tram route around the CBD (Central Business District), tram number 35, some of trams were old style, before each stop there is piped information on the points of interest, you can even get off and visit or just stay on and travel all the way round, your choice they go clockwise or anti-clockwise, running roughly every 12 minutes.
Note, they can be rather crowded and getting a seat is more like musical chairs as people get on and off but there is plenty of standing room.

We disembarked the tram outside the Art Gallery, and took a walk amongst the buildings which were amazing in design, lots of different shapes and angles, there were deckchairs available to just sit in and relax, admire the view and enjoy the sunshine, a good 'chillout' place.

Random Art

Fortified with a beer and a light lunch of duck spring rolls freshly made slaw, chilli and soap flavoured dip accompanied by straw fries, we strolled up the main shopping street and investigated the ally ways.
Ps:- soap flavoured = the taste of coriander. (to Jeannette)

The side streets were full of little gems of street cafe and alfresco dining, small and intimate little places that you can only find if you take time to get out and explore, don't just keep to the main streets, surprises are lurking around every corner if you take the time to find them!!!!

Now for the best bit..>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Said that there were surprises!!! We found this street art down one of the small side streets, I wonder how many people have just walked passed and not noticed it..........

It's up to you to find this!!!!

For Neil

New Zealand See You Again

2011-11-21T20:38:00.000+11:00

New Zealand.

Rugby World Cup Final and a visit to friends olive grove, before we fly out to Sydney.
It is great being in New Zealand for the Rugby World Cup, right result for the final, fantastic atmosphere, New Zealand really put on a great show and the people of this fine land supported it all the way to the final.
I only hope hope the World cup in England 2015 is supported in the same way and the people of the UK make all visitors welcome.

Monday 24th October travelling north or Northland to Whangarei, we will be spending a couple of days with Bidget and Dave, in their new home and olive grove, arrived mid afternoon the drive up to Whangarei Heads very scenic looking out over the bay, the directions up to the house took us along side the harbour, passed the Parua bay Tavern along a windy road, we then turned off on to an unsealed road with instructions to look for the house on the hill with a red roof and a big front verandah, and sure enough we found it. The drive way is very steep, as Bridget says " if you have made it over the southern alps passes you will manage."

Made it up the drive way to be met by Bridget, Dave and the dogs Tessa & Tui, 2 adorable labradors.
We spent a great couple of days getting to know all about olives and olive oil. We also had our very first sea fishing experience out in the Bay in their boat, it was great also to see the bay from the water.
It will be nice to visit for the olive picking season which is around April May, we will also be able to see the olive pressing process as well.

Olive Trees

We were on are way to Bay of Islands and a town called Russel. We stopped at a coffee shop come art gallery, with a view to die for, then the drive to Russel took us along the cost and some breath taking views of the bay. 1 night in Russel we were unable to plan in a boat trip to the islands, may be next time.

Russel

Onwards and upwards, towards the cape approx 3 hours if you use the ferry, but if you followed the GPS (satnav) 4.5 hours taking you 68k away from the actual direction you really want to go, safely across the river and on are way to Cape Reinga remember a full tank of fuel is a necessary as there are not any fuel stops for the full length of the 90 mile beach.

"Cape Reinga"

A very spiritual place to be, I'll leave it to you to find out why you will need to make the trip for yourselves.

Two Seas

We are coming to the end of our trip to New Zealand, having arrived in Auckland spent a week here, then 2 months in a camper van, travelled down to the south island as far as Millford Sound then a far north as Cape Reinga, we will still need to come back.

If you are planning your travels to New Zealand remember the following.

Talk to friends who have been or friends that live in New Zealand.
Although small it takes time to travel from one place to another.
You cannot take in all that's on offer in 2 weeks.
Give yourself time in each region take an extra day slow down you can also plan to come back.
Talk to the local people they are so friendly and helpful.
Use your feet and walk you will be amazed at what you will see.
Keep an open mind and a flexible plan be prepared to change your arrangements, remember do not add extra tours unless you also add time.
Take photos, keep a journal.

Orakei Korako Hidden Valley

2011-10-22T17:31:00.000+11:00

Back to Taupo,

Still a fantastic place to be, and spend 3 nights here before we head off to Rotorua.

We have a tourism guide box that's tied in to the GPS, when we pass places of interest this box goes "BING BONG" as it did for the"The hidden valley Orakei Korako" Cave and Thermal Park.
Situated 25 minutes north of Taupo, it's off the beaten track, a local guy said, "we will find it quieter than Rotorua area."
On picking up a leaflet, to read the following: Orakei Korako ("The place of adorning)

"Orakei Korako is possibly the best thermal area left in new Zealand and one of the finest in the world" ref; Lonely Planet Guide.
Scenes from the BBC Natural History Series "Walking with Dinosaurs" were filmed here.

Take highway 5 out of Taupo, hang a right at Taupo Quad bikes following the road signs to Orakei

Korako.

The scenery is outstanding a in some cases breathtaking, long roads with lush green hills and peaks running in to twisty valleys coupled with blue sky's and fluffy white clouds.

Very easy place to find follow the signs and the road ends at the car park at Orakei Korako, to find out, that for a huge cost and for the tourists that feel rich, you can arrive by Helicopter or fly in by Floatplane from Taupo or Rotorua.

The ferry across the lake leaves on demand, so when you have paid you can either go straight across or have a coffee and browse the shop. We chose to get onto the 'small' ferry and take the short trip over, the view that you get first is of steam and golden silica running into the lake its awesome. Off ferry and climb the well maintained ramps and pathways that meander throughout the journey, passed the bubbling water and mud pools, its like another planet.
Passed a couple of geysers that are unpredictable, we had a small show from one of them which coughed and spluttered boiling water out. You could feel the heat as we walked around.

We wandered through native bush and into a rare geothermal cave which was breathtaking and rocks of different colours.
This valley hasn't change for thousands of years and the leaflet informs us that 20 million litres of hot water flow over the silica terraces every day.
What stands out is the impact on our senses
from sounds, colour, noise and smell and that it's ever changing and unpredictable which could also be very dangerous.

The pictures I have placed are random, hopefully a taste of what we experienced.

Napier a Few Pictures / Hastings Too

2011-10-17T14:35:00.000+11:00

Napier

|=|=|=|

White waves upon the ocean

Will beat a path to where I roam

For in my heart there is a presence

And I will call that presence home

Darryn John Murphy 1970

All the world's a stage,

And all the men and women merely players,

They have their exits and their entrances,

And one man in his time plays many parts,

His acts being seven ages.

William Shakespeare 1564-1616

I never understand how man could dare

To watch a city shaken to the ground

To feel the tremors, here the tragic sound,

of houses twisting, crashing everywhere,

And not to be conquered by despair.

Although his buildings crumble to a mound

of worthless ruins, man has always found

The urge to build a stronger city there.

anon. penned after the 1931 Napier Hastings earthquake.

Hastings

Next only a few pictures with Spanish & Art Deco influence.

For Free Not Everything Cost.

2011-10-07T09:53:00.000+11:00

Lake Taupo

What a place Taupo is.

I have found the place I would like to live, not sure about Jeannette though.

Today we spent $12 on Tourist thing in Taupo.

2 activities for free.

Plan today,```` is to walk to Huka Falls from the Spa Park, it is 50 minute walk on a track that follows the river. After we walk through the park then on to the track that followed the river, we came across a pleasant surprise, A hot spring running down the hill side into the river, a couple of kayak guys were laying in the hot water, as we took in the shock, we didn't bring our swimming gear, shame, skinny dipping it will have to be. LOL..........

The water is lovely and clear this is a hot spring.

The main river is also very clean and clear you can see right down to the bottom,
The pathway to the falls is quite steep in places but the view of the river makes it worth while.
We passed some great houses and well kept lawns this house I really like.

The hot spring on the way back was full of fun loving Argentinians, with a rugby ball.

We walked for another 30 minutes as we got closer the noise got louder, the river from 50m away the edge is fenced in to stop the public from getting to close, as we approached we saw a bridge over the falls and into the car park, just for the lazy guys!!!!!!!!!!!
For water falls the noise, power and colour of the water is simply breath taking well worth the walk.

Looking down the falls>>>>>>>>

Looking up the falls>>>>>>>>>>

We finished off the afternoon yes not free but $12 spend, walking around a place called "Craters of the Moon" not to ruin our visit and blog of Rotorua in the next 2 weeks, I am not going to say anything other than we had a great day.
At 5pm soaked in the holiday parks 38c out door pool for an hour.

Ok here you go...............................1 Picture of the Craters of the Moon landscape

Hot Water Beach.

2011-10-03T19:17:00.001+11:00

Hot Water Beach Top 10 Camp Site.

Arrived at 13.30
Low tide 1800
Allow 2 hours either side of low tide gives us 4 hours

Question:- Where are we?

Hot Water Beach.......................................................................

2 hours hours either side of low water you can dig your very own "SPA"

Note, it has not stopped raining all day if you think I am going on a beach to sit in the wet.........??????

To Right I Can.

Rules, Equipment, Planning.

Rules: 50m either side of the rocks, 2 hours either side of low tide.

Note Gray day

Equipment: A Spade, Swimming Gear.

Planning: Know were to Dig.

Arrived at beach in camper van all kitted out, plus our spade, camera, now to find where to dig.

First 2 places we failed, didn't know the rules.

Tide too high, a person said to Jeannette "find the hot hot spots in the sand then dig"

That's all right tide still to high, boy I had dig for England, I am going to suffer tomorrow.

Hot water

1 hour with another English guy we made a dam

against the sea, our very own spa, we had about an hour of laying in very very hot spring water, our very own spa.

It was so hot that in some places you could not stand on the sand, it was funny to watch, as people found the really 'HOT' sand and jumped out of the way!!!

How Cool is that.!!!!!!!!

Water temp 40C +

Internet Cost New Zealand

2011-09-29T15:22:00.000+10:00

I need to have a Moan.

How much is acceptable to pay for internet access?

If you are going to charge how do you decide the price?

In New Zealand you can have "Free" internet use, both fixed line and wireless, at the local libraries and in some high streets / city centres.
Both run by local government.

What I have found is very annoying.

Hotels we have been in have free Wifi internet access.

2 out of all the camp-sites we been in so far have been free.

Most use a third party wireless internet provider and charge what is a reasonable rate of $10 for 24 hours ranging from 500mb to 1000mb.

Smaller amount of time you want, the higher the cost, as follows:-

$1 = 10 minutes
$2 = 20 minutes

Note an English guy in front of us on Tuesday 27th September bought £20 worth of internet time for his 4 kids, at the above rate.

The worst so far, for cost is a holiday camp close to Dunedin, that charged $18 for 4 hours.

I did not use the internet at this camp!!!!!!

The best was free internet at a camp close to Christchurch, this I had and if I used up the 1000mb he would increase it.

So should companies charge? when you, if you look, can get free internet access.

Its easy money clear profit.

If we the customer start to complain or not use the expensive places then hopefully the price will fall.

What do you say?

Camp-sites, Camper-vans & Locals

2011-09-27T05:51:00.000+10:00

First time travelling in a camper and not sure what to expect!!!

Need to get used to a small space 6.6m long and 3m high, having to make own bed EVERY NIGHT!!!!!

We have stayed at several camp-sites some good some ok and some excellent...the one thing that stands out is how very helpful people are. The reception staff advise and also some resident locals.

The receptionist's at the Top 10 in Te Anu was really helpful and advised us that if we were going to be using Top 10 sites that we would benefit from a members card for $40 this would give us a 10% discount..she then took the 10% off our camp fees our booking for Milford Sound this saving paid for the card..what excellent service. We have been staying at Top 10 sites and using our card.

But I cannot take away the fact that at every site we have stayed the staff have been fantastic and so friendly and helpful..even seeing the funny side after we have driven over small winding roads (following the GPS) which will insist on the scenic route lol, which sometimes seems too small for our large van!!!

The other thing that stands out is how freindly the locals are in the taverns/pubs..so interested to talk that they seem to do the rounds of tables with any new people...even to the fact of us wanting to watch the Rugby did not seems a problem...we even got a lift home..free from the Tavern at Waikouaiti the landlord was a dedicated rugby fan..... He has even said that when we come back he will have a list of places we need to see......

I am so impressed that when we meet people out and about they are so friendly and we have even had the offer of visiting him at his house, this was while we were in the springs at Hamner, also it does not matter where you are or what you are doing, this does not seem to happen at home..we to have lost the community spirit and don't want to connect or get involved any more!!!!

We have even as we travel met kind people who are locals staying at the camp sites and have asked us what we are doing and give us great places to go and find, that maybe we might not have given a second look, some real gems....

Once the people here realise you are not a local they do their best to include you and make you feel at home and one of them..not feeling uncomfortable to walk into anywhere!!!!

Queenstown New Zealand

2011-09-23T15:28:00.000+10:00

Why wouldn't you live here?

If your into Hi adrenalin activities or just into walking, eating and a good social life then Queenstown has to have all your needs.
Whatever your age you can do just about anything that is legal here in queenstown, I am going to share some photo's of people taking part in some of the things you can do.
Take the cable car up the mountain, have lunch, dinner or just a beer, take in the views or jump off in so many ways.

Para Gliding, It was a bit quiet when we were here and the guys that jump off the top, were playing kick the ball around.

Tame bungy jumping, you don't fall very far and your hooked up around your middle.
Still I wouldn't do it my excuse is I am not aloud.
you can also toboggan, or take a couple of walking tracks up here, even walk down, there is also a pendulum swing if you fancy.

Kawarou Bridge the home of Bungy Jumping the following pictures are involving a small child no harm came to her, the other picture of a man different story.

London Buses they get everywhere.

No Harm at all to little girls, Mum and Dad were proud of her watching from the viewing platform.

Ready Steady Go, you need to wait for the Go!!!!!! oops
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

The previous guy towelling down, air temp 8c, water temp -2c.
I was cold just watching

Any one game? oh you get picked up in a dingy.

Jet Boat ride there is only one in the world to do "Shotover"

And there is more.
Skiing, Snowboarding, rock climbing, jet boat tours, steamboat tours, drinking, dancing, shopping, canoeing and many more all in 1 place.

For a short ride away you can also pan for gold, note what you find you keep.

More to come.

Milford sound Coach & Cruise

2011-09-20T16:14:00.000+10:00

Mirrored lake

Coach & Cruise Milford sound

Well what a day travelling down to Te Anau, rain sheeting it down, wind howling around buffeting us from one side of the to the other, due to how bad the weather is we decided to miss out Invergargill and go staight to Te Anau, gateway to Milford Sound.

We headed for a Top Ten camp site by the lake with a bit of "Luxury" also a place to book a coach trip to Milford Sound, that way I can also get the benefit from the scenery.
The shock we had as we pulled into the drive of the campsite, there were 3 campervans infront of us, the place already looked full of rugby fans, that had bailed out of the weekend rugby matchs from Dunedin and Invergargill, highlighted by all the flags in the windows and hanging from the campervan doors, more Scotland flags, England flags coming a close second followed by Argentinian flags.

The receptionist was outstanding in the service she gave us, she asked the right questions, from our answers, she said we should consider being members of Top Ten Club, which would give us discounts at top ten campsites, cafes, here in New Zealand and campsites in Australia, we would also benifit from it, as we are traveling for 2 months here in New Zealand. For the cost of $40, which we saved from the discounts we got from 2 nights at the site and booking the Coach & Cruise.

Next Day 8.15 we waited for luxury coach ideal for the small group of us and personal, the company is "Go Milford" the cost is $149 each, this = £75 approx, the only let down for the day was that it was cloudy, it hid the tops of the mountains.
Incorporated into the cost is cruise for 2.5 hours a trip clockwise around the bay to Milford sound and back again which included buffet lunch,
Firstly the trip overland through Fiordlands spectacular scenery, stopping to look at the views which are outstanding even in low cloud, stopped at mirrored lakes, you need to do this early before the wind gets up.
The Chasm
The Finest workers
in stone are not
copper or steel tools,
but the gentle
touches of air and
water working at
their leisure with a
liberal allowance of
Time.
"David Henry Thoreau"

The trip back was as exciting as the trip down,
There is an option to take a helicopter flight to the glacier, then you get out a couple of photo's and the pilot will drop you on the other side of the tunnel to meet the coach, all for a small fortune, max of 3 persons.
3 guys took this offer up, and after the cruise they were dropped off to take the helicopter flight.
we then stoped off to see the "chasm" on returning to the coach we notice the cloud base has dropped and the helicopter is landing in the car park, these guys only managed to spend 2 minutes on the glacier. As

Snowballs ready.

we approached the tunnel, It started to snow heavily we saw the snow settling on the side of the mountains and the road up to the tunnel.
We had a treat at the other end the coach driver stopped as a couple of Australians on the coach have never thrown snow balls! Which I cannot believe.

Milford Sound Cruise with Southern Discoveries.
Note. Jeannette request to drive the Boat!!!!

Only comment I have, I not a fan of having lunch at 11.15. That said lunch was great, buffet catering for all tastes and nationalities. and enough for everyone to go round twice.
I was unable to take good photo's as the clouds were low, A good value cruise the captain was approachable and allowed the guys to ask questions and have a go at steering the boat.
The commentary along cruise is very informative, it's backed up with cruise highlights sheet for our own information, there are 18 points of interest, taking in Bowen Falls, Sinbad Gully, Lion Mountain, Fairy Fall and Harrison Cove. The only natural anchorage in the Fiord used during the 1800 by whalers and sealer's.

A couple of random photo's.

Seal rock is one of the few places the southern fur seals are able to claim out on to the rocks. They inhabit the Fiord all year round.

<Stirling Falls, is one of 2 permanent waterfalls in the Fiord.

Jeannette about to get a soaking from the Stirling falls, the boat can get the pointy end right under the falls it self.....>

Ps. One camp site internet cost free for the whole week, another site $18!!! for 4 hours? I am on a top ten camp site and have free very fast wifi.

What more can I say?

Random lunch stop and Boulders

2011-09-12T06:47:00.000+10:00

A timed run from Christchurch to Dunedin.

Why?

On our way to the first of England's group games of which the first 3 are in Dunedin, this is great for us as we will be able to visit and see the bottom half of New Zealand's South Island over 14 days, not going to rush this at all.
Left early out of Christchurch with GPS taking in a horse shoe shape route around Christchurch, I got the feeling that we were going totally the wrong direction, "have faith in the GPS," Jeannette comments.

Views terrific finding words is getting harder to describe the scenery, the roads are very quite, I will probably be repeating my self here.
Next a place to eat, choices not so many choices on the open roads, a few cafe's, bars, Taverns and restaurants though the towns we passed, while driving I saw a sign for Moeraki Boulders Cafe & Bar in 2k. We decided to stop well what a bonus it was, the cafe is situated about .5k off the main road drive down to a car park that can take camper vans, couple of coaches and cars. nicely laid out cafe plus a gift shop.
On entering the cafe the first thing that hits you is the Daily Specials written on a Hugh roll of brown wrapping paper hanging from the ceiling, next attack on my senses is the fantastic sea views, they have an outside eating deck just in the right place.
Then I notice pictures on the walls, I called Jeannette over and said "We have picked without realising it a famous place to see,"
The cafe is situated right above the 60 million year old "Moeraki Boulders" what a treat, they're amazing!

Or as one traveller put are they Egg shells of sea-born dragons?

Rather than give you the history just look and wonder.

You have to be here.

Look carefully the earth is giving birth to another Boulder

A Relaxing Spa / Travelling with Scenic Views?

2011-09-10T11:56:00.000+10:00

Both!
Over 2 days.
Looking at the leaflets and New Zealand guide books you have so much choice.

A 90 minute camper van journey from Christchurch is one of many things a traveller must do.

Do you need a perfect place to "Rebalance and unwind?"

Then as we decided Hanmer Springs thermal Pools is the place to go, I am quite sure there will be other springs and thermal pools we will visit, this is the first.
A great drive up to Hanmer it took us 1.45 hours, driving up through the mountains and pine forests when we were within 5k there is a single vehicle only wooden bridge over a gorge, just before the bridge there is an adventure activities centre, were the more adventurous can partake in White water rafting, rock claiming, bungy jumping, jet boat ride and Horse riding, Ps, there also a ski centre in this area as well.

Hamer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa has been around for 125 years, The place is great and everything you would want is available, even as a spectator at a cost of $2 (£1), it makes the New Spa in Bath a rip off, sorry Bath City Council.
Now to make Bath Spa look inferior on value for money and facilities, We decide that we would do the Thermal pools only, even though they do the whole pampering thing like Facials, Spa Treatments, Massage, Hot Stone therapy and Hands and Feet, this is not all, but the one I have highlighted, the Ladies will love.

Chocolate Regenerative Care.
Enjoy a delicious break from daily life. This chocolate fondue treatment gives softness and suppleness to the skin as well as improving the brightness of your complexion.

The Thermal pools entry cost us $18 each $5 for towels and $2 for a locker, you can spend all day here.

Guess?

Set in the heart of the village and snow top mountains for a back ground we had a choice of 15 thermal pools ranging from Aqua Therapy pools, Rainbow Rock pools, hexagonal pools, lap pool, children's aquaplay pools with slides and not forgetting the 3 Sulphur pools "smelly" these pools are great, water temperatures ranged from 40c - 42c our skin felt really soft after being in these pools, the Sulphur pools contain unfiltered thermal water, so no ducking your head in!!!

We are going to do this again in other of the many hot springs around New Zealand, keep you updated.

Trans-Alpine Train Journey Christchurch To Greymouth

On Tuesday 6th September we went on the transalpine train trip to Greymouth, we had to leave the campsite early, so booked a taxi to collect us at 7am..the train was due to leave at 8.15am but had to be there 20 minutes before to have seats allocated.

We sat in A B seats on the outward leg, these were really good seats as you were facing the right way, the first part of the journey took us through small towns that were not very highly populated..a place for peace and relaxation!!!!

We saw lots of wide open spaces on our way to Arthur's Pass, sheep, cows, alpaca's and ostriches, plenty of birds of prey and the occasional herds of deer..as it was lambing season loads of baby lambs running and jumping about. The sun was shining and everyone in the carriage seemed happy.

We had a young family opposite us and the two small boys were enjoying their journey with mum and Grandpa!!! the youngest one got a little tired and started to cry and roll about on the floor.(.been there , done that) some of the other passengers where somewhat rude and intolerant of small children and made rude remarks to the family...I feel that if they wanted silence they should have booked a seat in the luggage carriage!!!!! Trains are for everyone!!!!

Our journey took us over death defying viaducts metres high over some what dry river beds..just a small trickle, but probably a raging torrent in the rainy season!!! High mountains with remnants of snow on their peaks, some covered in trees their size was amazing!! We went through the longest tunnel in the southern hemisphere 8k in length and 20 minutes to go through..

There was an open carriage where those that cold brave the wind could stand and take photographs, and return to the carriage, cold and wind swept...they kept doing this throughout the journey..Mark was gone for so long that i thought he might have been blown away, but he did eventually return, cold and in need of a hot drink, but also happy with all the photos he had snapped!!!!

Once through the long tunnel, on the other side the difference in the view and weather was noticeable, a lot cooler, more cloud and not much sign of the lovely sunshine, if felt like we had emerged into a different world. But the views were just as spectacular!!!

Once we reached our destination we decided to have a walk up the main street, which had a variety of shops, cafe's and banks. Greymouth town is not huge, but a place we can say we have been too!! Next to the station there is also a supermarket and subway shop!! We were advised to take our own snacks as these places can get really full, from the people alighting from the train. Anyway the train had a carriage H for hungry for drinks etc, so we had no need to buy anything here!!!

Our time went fast and before we knew it we were waiting on the platform for the train ride to return to Christchuch... the return journey was no less impressive as the sun was shining differently, and leaving shadows on the mountains..yet again the viewing carriage was as busy as the first time.

We arrived back at Christchurch caught the bus back..for FREE as the driver guessed we were tourist and gave us a free ride back on his bus...magic. a brilliant end to a long tiring and exciting day!! Thank you......

Christchurch OMG

2011-09-05T19:21:00.021+10:00

Words From A Poster On A Fence Blocking off the City Centre

A CITY BROKEN

BUT IT WILL MEND

A CITY FALLEN

BUT IT WILL RISE AGAIN

PEOPLE SCREAMING, WEEPING IN DESPAIR

BUT THEY WILL SMILE AGAIN

FOR FROM ALL THIS DEVASTATION, DESTRUCTION AND DESPAIR

THERE WILL COME

A STRONG CITY

A SAFE CITY

A BEAUTIFUL CITY

A GARDEN CITY

MY CITY / OUR CITY

CHRISTCHURCH

Mother nature cannot be tamed, It doesn't matter where you are in the world you are "vulnerable."

Mother nature cannot control human behaviour, she might make you sit up and think!

I will share a few photos I took in Christchurch, some of these you might or might not have seen, those of you that live in other parts of the world would have already forgotten what this earthquake did to this city.

This church in New Brighton is to be knocked
down, they will then make a green space
for the local community.

A City trying to get back to normal, for all the Rugby World Cup supporters that are on the South Island and would have been coming to Christchurch. You need to come and spend a day, Buy a Coffee, Have a meal, this City needs your support.

A few odd pictures

Wild Man
Art Man
Teacher Man
They have their way to play today?

Our First Camper van trip

2011-09-03T08:40:00.156+10:00

29th August 2010
It's Monday, one check around the hotel room, now off to Maui Camper-vans. Welcome great, offered tea, coffee as well as an apple if we needed it. We were given a DVD to watch about the camper and it's features and how to use them. Filled the forms out, then checked out the Camper, with the help of Agent, he is French, Maui Campervans have taken on a few french speaking agents to help the french rugby supporters that are coming over!!!!!
Shock horror, what a beast, really very very very long at 6.6m, 2 berth baby, with shower toilet combination, 3 ring gas hob and sink. Plus our GPS.

Sunset First camp site

Still in shock, asked the agent to book the ferry crossing, as they said they could from the prevoius days phone call, not realising that a they will charge commission!!! Now off we go to find the nearest supermarket which is a Woolworths, bought snacks for the trip plus bread tea and milk. On our way!!! the plan, to head to Wellington with 2 stops down the west side of the north Island, we bought a great Road Map called the New Zealand Motorhome & Camping Atlas, ( By Hema Maps,) IT has the complete guide to:

Short Term Parking
Camping Grounds
Caravan parks
Rest areas
Motor-home dump stations. Clear the doo doo out.

Jet Black Sand

Driving out of Auckland is pretty straight forward, the GPS loaded with are aiming point "Awakino," a campsite close by called Sea View Holiday park.
First Impressions, "Grim" an old site with very old touring caravans set up static site. old toilet and shower block that came out of my school days, It was clean though and the owners have been painting, It needs bringing up to the 21st centry. We arrived parked up with a sea view in time for the Sun to set only if the coulds can hold off a little longer, Walk to the beach approx 15m, oh my god! "Sand as Black as the ace of spades."was not expecting that!!!
That night was really noisy with the sound of the sea and the rain, it was also cold. The next morning we decided to get up early and leave,
had a shave and a shower, jeannette didn't shower, because the showers were crap so she opted to just a wash. Our plan was the to stop within 50 -70k of Wellington, so we drove for about 2 hours through winding roads, tunnels, the scenery was fantastic, up high & down low, sun and rain greeted us.
We stopped in a small town Inglewood for breakfast at the cafe' called Mcfarlanes, I had bacon and mushrooms in a cream sauce on toast, Jeannette had scrambled eggs on toast with a drizzle of pesto around the plate, very nice and friendly place.
We then got back on track and headed for our next camping site, the Paekakarki Holiday Park, an excellent place, modern toilets and shower block, tv lounge and kitchens, set with the Queen Elisabeth Park approx 200m from the beach, the sand here is grey. The park setting is great, a nice quiet place to relax in the summer months. We set up our van and walked into the town which was about 1k distance, on our way there up above in the hills behind the campsite we could see 2 para gilders very calming, pity it was cloudy the pictures would be very good, Sun, Sea and Mountains.

View out of Wellington

After a good and quite nights rest we set off in the direction of Wellington, being careful not to go too early and hit the business traffic. After a 45 minute drive we were heading into Wellington, missed the turn off and headed for the wrong ferry. It's pity they don't dock both company's ferrys at the same place, after asking directions we turned around another 2k drive we made it to the Interislander Terminal. We parked up and waited for the ferry, which was 3 hours (yes we were rather early) decided to visit the cafe' near the terminal for a coffee. Eventually after our wait we were able to drive on and get parked on the ferry found the onboard cafe' and seating we managed to get the seats looking to the front, A calm day with sea haze, pictures not to good, but how exciting to see albatrosses on the wing, seals swimming around, the scenery sailing down to Picton was topped off with a school of dolphins around the front of the ferry, the 3 hour crossing went very quickly. For you guys that might want to know the onboard services are, lounges, gift shop, children's corner, observation decks, cafe's and bars, cinema, wi-fi plus sky tv.
4 random photos from the ferry as we sailed down to Picton.

In Picton we decided as it was 6pm or 1800 hours we decided to stop here we found the "Picton top 10 holiday park" it was small but very

good well worth the 5* it holds.
We took a walk into Picton, after being given a short cut, which took us behind the boat sheds and over a huge coat hanger bridge..steep.. The town of Picton is small but beautifully formed and is quiet this time of year, but seems to have lots for the travelling tourist coming off the ferry, we ate at a local bar 'Mikey's Bar' it was a really good atmosphere, good food, and that night even musical entertainment..a local playing guitar (very well). We walked back and had a very peaceful night.. The showers next day were a treat, hot and powerful, warm room...real comfort, even a hairdryer in the mens room too!!!!
Note the picture of a white hygiene
hand pump, this is for you to spray on toilet
paper and sanitise the toilet seat.

We started out from Picton at 9am filled up with fuel with an estimated travelling time of 4.5 hours with a comfort break halfway. The scenery was more impressive than the drive down from Auckland, over mountains along winding roads on edges that just disappeared from sight, the mountains looked like a ruffled carpet green and lush, full of bumps, this is the main road and we also had huge lorries travelling on them too!! Pity most of the day was cloudy, as we rounded a corner on the peninsular the real big highlight of the drive....finding seals in their natural environment, not having to pay to see them. "Outer Sight"

A second look at Jet Black Sand

Auckland - Be a Local not a Tourist

2011-09-01T18:39:00.005+10:00

Jeannette says I can't use that title, "You be doing Touristy things you wallie." In her best somerset / auzzie accent.

This is what the local web site said for the up and comming "World Cup"

Sky Tower

Yes - We went up the Sky Tower.
No - We did not Jump off it.
No - We did not walk around the outer rim.
Yes - We relaxed in the Cafe' and Bar area.
No - We didn't Book in The Orbit Revolving Restaurant.
No - We didn't Book into The Observatory Buffet Restaurant.
Yes - We went to the Sky Deck.

The views outstanding, play on words not actually out, inside, the experience was outstanding.

Bungy Jump Off the Harbour bridge

We entered Sky City to find a lot going on building, painting and decorating ready for the Rugby world cup, It looks all a rush to me, they will be ready for the vast numbers of rugby fans they expect to arrive in the next 2 weeks.

For the Sky Tower and to access all the activities, you need to go down the escalator to the Sky Tower gift shop,

We did the Total Experience which included the Main Observation Level at 186m (610ft), Sky Deck at 220m (722ft) and access to the Sky Lounge cafe'/bar. the cost of $28 each.

Glass Floor

The lift ride up was great with a class bottom in the lift floor made it exciting, plus the speed of the lift at 18k an hour made our ears pop.

A view of Jeannette feet on the glass floor!

I could not stand there as it made feel uncomfortable, I'm not good with heights!!!

Here are a few of the pictures we took while up on the observation/SKY deck........................

Jeannette in the Main Observation deck.

Me at the Sky deck.

The pictures that I took were affected by the heavily tinted Class all came out with a green tinge.

For a small cost you can leap off the
Sky Tower, fall straight down after the 15 second pause, infront of the guys drinking coffee.
The leaflet states that you will fall for 11 seconds at 85k per hour.
Its not like a bungy jump, it's a controlled fall without the slap into the ground. Base Jump without the chute !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Costs for your adrenalin rush .

Adult Sky Jump $225 (=26 pints of beer then you could just jump off your hotel balcony)
Child $175 from 10 years to 15 years
Family Jump $700
Sky Walk Adult $145 / Child $115

A special Look & Leap package is $290.

View............... Priceless from the window of the Sky Tower

What ever the weather it shouldn't stop you having an adventure..................................................
A Grey day, didn't stop Our "Hop on Hop off Tour the only problem my photography is not very good in these weather conditions. I will need to take the course when find some spare time.

Ferry Terminal

Our deal of the day was with the "360 Discovery cruises" Special Offer $32 All day pass was being offered for just $20 each a saving of $24.
They cover 5 drop off points, Torpedo Bay, Rangitoto Island, Motuihe Island, Orakei Wharf and back to Ferries Depot Downtown Auckland.
We picked Rangitoto Island at 600 years old and a dormant volcano, it is the largest and Youngist in the Auckland volcano field of 40 + Volcano's

That what you get for
racing

Note you can spend all day here catch the last ferry at 15:15 or as we did 2 hours.
Just enough time to get to the top lookout for the spectacular views. 45 minute walk up and down.

Unless your Jeannette 1 dodgy knee and she was out to brake the 45 minute time. note all sign posts to the time work it out to an hours walk. ( not enough time to get back for the next ferry.) We did it 35 minutes Jeannette has a red face to show it.
We got back for ferry with 20 minutes to spare, also I fell over on the way down. No worries I saved my camera,
Left hand elbow and left knee not good, scraped and bleeding.....

Browns Island

Now waiting for the ferry to Orakei Wharf, here we walked the 2k to Mission Bay, the beach although now sandy, due to it being dredge in, was once actually full of shells. Aim is for a hot drink and look around, it is a sea side suburb of Auckland which has cafe's restaurants, bars and icecream parlours. We have 2 hours here then the ferry back to Auckland. A very good day out, We only wished the sun had come out to join us.

On our way to Christchurch now.

Parnell and 2 Bonuses

2011-08-25T17:02:00.008+10:00

Parnell is a historic first suburb about 2k from downtown Auckland, a charming and very distinctive up-market village shopping area.
We walked the street looking into all the charming quaint little shops selling very opulent gifts and furniture, things one could only imagine in your home...huge light shades and very expensive seats!!!. shops dedicated to paper products that were amazing.Fashion designers showing all their art. Lots of restaurants of different taste sensations from all corners of the world...Italy, Japan, India to name but a few and lots of small cafes.

View From the Sky Tower

We walked the street stopping for a coffee to help recharge ourselves, and soak up the different atmosphere.
Further along we could see the building known as the War Museum that we could see from the sky tower...Mark thought this was further away and was thinking of taking a bus....... but what a bonus it was within walking distance of where we were, so off we went.
Bonus No1

Look Daffodils

This building was up one of the steepest hills in Auckland and steps too! I took a rest at the top while Mark took photo's. We noticed the admission $10 donation each and decided to go in. We purchased our tickets, checked in our backpack and armed with map started our day of discovery!

The museum is situated in a very impressive building. There are 3 floors that tells the story of New Zealand, the diverse cultures that make New Zealand today.

We start our adventure in the Maori Court were there was a huge war canoe that was used in battle, that could hold 100 warriors, it was made from one huge tree trunk...it was very impressive!!! We removed our shoes to sit in a Maori chiefs house..its respectful to remove shoes for this.

The natural history room that showed unusual wildlife and plants and some birds that i have never seen, they were so big..one of them stood over three metres and looked like an ostrich. We experienced a volcanic eruption in a interactive room..that was quite frightening the room actually shook.

Bonus No2
Walking back from the War museum through the shopping area, we looked for refreshments and found ourselves outside the Chocolate Boutique..in we went, the list of chocolate drinks was extensive 22 different ways to drink chocolate, I had the Italian one which came with cream and chocolate curls..it was so thick that you could not drink it, I had to use a spoon, Mark said " do you want anything to eat" I said "surprise me" and he did, the lady arrived with two chocolate covered éclairs filled with chocolate cream..almost 'Death by chocolate'. the whole shop although small was filled with chocolate products all in glistening bags.

What next?

Auckland finding our feet / people watching

2011-08-24T07:23:00.000+10:00

Sky Tower From Albert Park

We Landed in Auckland 2320 on Saturday the 20th August, After the best landing from a pilot I have had, he brought the Boeing 737-800 with (winglets) down so gently nicely flared, I would bet he's a glider pilot, well done to the captain of flight QF125.
Next to get to our Hotel, The Quadrant, 3 choices

Public Transport Bus,
Shuttle Bus
taxi

Due to the late hour and having to wait 30 minutes for the shuttle Bus, we decided to take a Taxi we asked the cost to the hotel, "$60 to $70 came the reply.," we had a great drive in the roads were empty, clear night and a very nice taxi driver, cost came in at $76

The Hotel Room is great, we will leave the feed back for after we completed our week, we will publish our blog on Sunday.

Our first day in Jeannette's words, "walked up and down got our barrings and bought our cold weather jackets."

First thing, Hills, steep slopes and buildings similar to high streets in the UK, from the tallest Building in New Zealand the Sky Tower, that will wait till Tuesday, loads of "Café's, restaurants and interesting shops, after all day walking around, we went back to the hotel, showered then went out for dinner.

We settled on Wagga-mamma our first time, even though there is a wagga in Bath, Jeannette picked Chicken noddles in a soup base, I had spicy lamb noodles, sides dishes, chicken dumplings lightly fried & crispy salad.

with drinks, steinlager pure & Cranberry,ginger & apple juice, Jeannettes drink tasted fantastic.
Total cost $67, the exchange rate is $1.98 to £1, very good value we thought.

People Watching

Monday 22nd August, The plan is to have a relaxing day and revisit some of the places from the previous day this time I would take photos.
I also need to pick up Our Rugby World Cup Tickets, travel information, plus information about the Sky City and tower, which is a very impressive building.
The day started with a walk through Albert park, down through the university area, to Starbucks for a coffee in the cinema complex, note free WiFi here.
After picking up our world cup tickets, we went to investigate the docks, mariners and Viaduct. what an impressive place, expensive yachts, cabin cruisers, cargo ships, and ferry's.

Red Doors The Wharf

In a need to eat, we are spoiled for choice, the place we fancied is in the red doors along the Wharf,
"Jack Tar," because I wanted Ribs, after a late lunch and beer we spent the rest of the afternoon people watching which made for interesting photos.
Now to retire to the hotel bar, Sky Tower Tuesday.

In Front of Jack Tar

Koala's & Paddle Steamers

2011-08-19T16:05:00.000+10:00

A weekend spent in Berrigan with Kay's Sister, Wendy & John.

After a great Dinner of "A Rack of Lamb & Seasonal Roast Vegetables" accompanied by fantastic wine and good conversation.
Wendy said, "have you seen Koala bears in the wild? "no" we replied, "only in Australia Zoo."
"Hopefully we will be able to spot a few tomorrow" Wendy said, dinner was finished off with outstanding tasting, local Port and fresh fruit with a baileys dip. We retired to bed watered and fed very well.

Bailey Dip= sour cream,, brown sugar + baileys to your own taste.

Sunday started off with a very healthy breakfast, then a drive for approx 30 minutes to an area off the beaten track to search for Koala's.
On the way John talk us through the area we are driving through, which is very flat, fields used for growing crops and sheep farming.
John also went through the recent history of drought they have been through and the irrigation methods and action the local people have taken.
Which provides water for 2400 land holdings, also produces Hydro Power.

Spotting Koala's isn't easy, we drove off the main road on to dirt track that made it's way to the Murray River, follow the Koala's food supply, which is known the world over.
Eucalyptus leaves, bark and oddly mistletoe, Koala's are nocturnal and sleep up to 16 hours a day, they are "Arboreal" this means they prefer to live alone in trees,
With all this information we should be able to spot loads! Wrong, It took us 30 minutes walking with heads looking skywards at the trees (gives you an ache in the neck) before I spotted the first of 12 koala's, We had a nice walk through a forest along the Murray River, on very sunny Sunday.

The Koala's were very high up and bottoms is the only site. we can now say we have seen the them in the wild.

We finished the day off with a paddle steamer ride, on the Murray River from a very large inland port at Echuca.
Home of the worlds largest fleet of Paddle Steamers,The One we went on is 100 years old this month.

New Zealand.........................................................

Name This bird Please.

2011-08-18T10:59:00.000+10:00

I am having a problem finding out what type of Parrot, Lorikeet, in the following pictures.
The book I am using is the "Birds of Australia" second edition.

Yellow Head and back, white cheeks and Blue body with blue wings.

Any ideas?

Location Mooloolah Queensland.

Winemakers of Rutherglen

2011-08-12T21:11:00.016+10:00

By now you will have worked out where we have been.
First frost in the mornings but still very warm days here in the wine region of Rutherglen.
Known for Very Good Red's and outstanding Fortified wines.
Are you ready?
Are your taste Buds ready?
For Beer Drinkers sorry wine only!!!!!!!!!!

First to titivate your taste buds, make sure you haven't eaten mints, orange or lemons, garlic, or blue cheese, salt or chilli's.
Why you say? Try it out you'l find out...................

Armed with the Tiny Wineries Discovery Map, Winemakers of Rutherglen Winery Guide and the Rutherglen Heritage Walk Guide.
20 wineries and 3 days, we checked out 7, Note, more than 3 wineries a day is to many.
Please note, from our mistake, read about the Winery you are going to visit first, we had to phone the Watch box Winery to get directions, we were within 8k to get a answer phone message saying "they are closed only open Wed to Sunday."lol

A day planned walking, cold wind blowing, 2k walk from Kay's house is Jones Winery & Vineyard.

The building we entered, is built from hand made bricks, with it's oriiginal bark lined roof if you look closely at the right hand side picture at the ceiling you will see the bark hairs hanging down.
Run by Mandy Jones and her Bother Arther.
We warmed up with a coffee by the log fire, within this room is the Cellar Door / bar to the left is the cafe' outside to the right is a small gallery which included garden art, sculptures and furniture made from native timber.
To be greeted by the bar man saying your not from here and a long way from home, he to is from the UK, came to Australia because his wife a Doctor came home one day and said, "how about Australia," "Holiday?" "No to live!" he was a nice guy made us coffee and talked us through the history of the vineyard.
We relaxed and warmed up by the fire, The Winery was established in 1860 and are producing wines from vines planted 100 years ago.

Wines for tasting are laid out on the Bar:

Reds to the left, 2008 dry red, 2008 Shiraz, 2008 LJ, 2009 Durif.
Fortified to the right, Apero, Ruby, 2006 Vintage, Muscat, Old Tawny, Olorosso.
Whites in the chiller, 2009 Roussanne/Marsanne, 2008 Marsanne.

Armed with large wine classes we started with the Fortified wines, class filled to a 1/3rd we tasted the Apero first and worked towards the Olorsso, given the history and how each was made, they all tasted great.
Its choice, you can taste how you want, spit it out in a barrel size spittoon, that has a stainless steel cone, or drink it, rinse out with water, start again.
The Highlight for me was the Old Tawny, Port Style, Jeannette's is the white Port Style Fortified served very cold, let it warm up and the flavour bursts out, Ideal for soaking soft fruits it ie strawberries.
I tasted the red's Jeannette abstained, the highlights for me and the only rule of thumb I was using, If I felt I could drink the whole bottle then it was good!
Jones 2008 L.J. Rich, fill bodied from the old vines, An outstanding red wine which I liked.
Jones 2009 Durif this grape variety is unique to this region and a vine the French didn't want, I have never herd of this grape type before, the wine is outstanding, notes given, Rich Berry fruit with soft tannin finish.

The grape is named after François Durif, a botanist at the University of Montpellier, primarily grown in California, Australia, France, and Israel.
I ordered another coffee warmed up by the fire, purchased a bottle of 2008 LJ for Kay, and then walked back to Rutherglen.

Overview of the other Wineries we visited:

Very Impressive Drive, All Saints Estate, a long drive to the car park, formal gardens, sign posts guide you to historical Buildings and a viewing area, pressing room fermentation area.
Jeannette was very taken by the customer service shown, the lady that introduced us to their wines, talk us through how to taste the wine properly, with a demonstration as well.

This winery also had a good range of whites which Jeannette enjoyed tasting the Chardonnay 2008, Riesling, Marsanne & Marsanne viognier.
I Tried 3 reds, Cabernet sauvignon, Shiraz & The All saints Durif. Armed with the Tasting session each time I Tasted the wine I sensed / tasted something new in the wine, I am having problems with using the right words to describe it.
A very comfortable place to be, pity they were decorating the restaurant, the grounds and the Indigo Cheese Shop were there to walk round.
I was also aloud to see the Cask/Barrel room.

They line the open cemented vats with bee's and paraffin wax before the grape juice is placed inside ready for fermentation process.

Valhalla Vines

1k from All saints this very small winery is unique that in the wine celler there are picture on the wall showing the history of the building being built ie made totally of strawbales, also the vineyard practices sustainability, they embrace natural faming methods, rainwater harvesting, a worm farm waste system, composting, using recycled packaging and hemp fibre uniforms.

Wine Bottle Rutherglen

Three wines I like, and original names.

Three Little Birds ( White Blend of Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne.
The Roaming Goat (Red Blend of Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvedre
The Ranga after his "red head son" Blend of Durif and Shiraz

Time For lunch, A 2k drive to the Pickled Sisters Cafe at Colfield Wines.
We Ordered lunch- open steak sandwich with caramelised red onions and season chunky chips, salad for Jeannette.
After a great lunch, then a short walk to the wine seller.
From their notes: The Colfields point of difference is their focus on crafting sparkling wines - both Pinot Noir Chardonnay and Sparkling Shiraz - traditional methods.
We tried all three of their Sparkling Wines, 2 mentioned above plus the Sparkling Sarah.
I found them all very nice and refreshing to drink, Yes I would buy them, from the tasting notes the Wine I especially liked

Sparkling Sarah - Strawberry Fields Forever - abundance of strawberries and spring flowers. a delightful fizz with balanced sweetness - Berry Nice.

Another Day and after a false start with the WatchBox Winery closed, It will keep to another time.
Gehrig Estate - apart from being the Oldest Winery in Victoria Established in 1858, they disappointed by not being set up for visitors, no more said.

Rock on, next Winery and a fresh coffee beckons, up on the hill nothing around but fields, vines and views to die for.
Vintara Winery

We were met by Michael, very jolly fellow, we ordered coffee and a hot chocolate, being the only guys there we had the pleasure of talking to Michael, he told us about his background and the hard work they been doing to build this business from nothing and empty fields, including building this fantastic Winery, incorporating a Restaurant, conference facilities and a great outdoor area, were weddings are held.
I ask if he show me round the back areas were they make the wine, he and spoke with great passion for wine making.
The wines produced are big soft Rhone varieties and emerging varieties like Sangiovese, Tempranillo and Cinsaut, plus a range of whites,
The wines we tasted we found fresh fruity, mellow and easy to drink, Jeannette like the Tempranillo her first real red!
Off we went with a bottle of Tempranillo & Durif.

Stanton & Killeen
Home of "Jack's Block Shiraz"

Available at the celler Door 1.5l Magnum.

A good reason to check out this lovely situated winery approximately 3k west from Rutherglen, you walk in to a modern celler room that feels and shouts wine tasting, A large L shape bar area with wines ready for tasting, A mezzanine floor with painting around the walls, an area ready for groups, that looks down on the rest of the seller.

Yes we did taste the wines.
Jeannette the Whites, Riesling and the White Frontignac A light fruity med dry with floral aroma.
I tasted Jack's Block: very fruity taste of berries blackcurrant to me smooth drinking red.

This Winery also exports their wines to the UK.

Question: how do I start my own wine seller, without drinking the wine as fast as I buy it?

To Quote:
I have enjoyed great health at a great age because everyday since I can remember I have consumed a bottle of wine except when I have not felt well. Then I have consumed two bottles. - Bishop of Seville

Cheese, Mustard, Honey And an Alpaca Shop

2011-08-08T17:25:00.035+10:00

Long straight roads almost no other traffic, just put the car in cruise control, we will arrive.

Milawa North East Victoria.
We turned into the gravel car park to the Milawa cheese company a great looking building that has deli room a big restaurant area with out side eating, furniture is all in light wood, there is a bakery attached, selling hand crafted bread made from sourdoughs with English, French and Italian influences.

For the Cheese that's why we are here.

Life of Brian-"Blessed are the cheese-makers."

The Milawa cheese company was founded in 1988 by David and Anne Brown. All the cheeses are hand made using no preservatives and made with non animal rennet. Their aim is to bring full flavoured farmhouse cheese to everyone.

Once inside we were greeted by a nice lady who said that we could taste the cheese, they have a vast selection of goats and cows milk cheeses, fresh curds,white moulds to washed rinds and blue vein cheese....there is a cheese for every palate. I will keep away from the Blues!

We tasted a few (apart from the blue ones) and they were delicious the soft brie like cheeses were very mild and Jeannette's favourite was a goats cheese flavoured with chilli and herbs...tasty!!!!!
Mark's favourite is Milawa Gold type rich yellow cheese with gold to red rind with soft creamy taste.

In total we tasted 18 of the 22 cheese we left the blues alone 11 of the cheese are made form coats milk very tasty these are, I liked the Milawa Goat's Camembert.

They have award wining cheeses and have been given cups and medals.
The Tasting Notes opening statement says:-
"All cheeses are hand made at the historic Milawa Butter Factory using traditional methods, without preservatives and using non-animal rennet."

Milawa Mustards

Hand made Mustards using home grown ingredients.

The building is an old Inn, Called the "Old Emu Inn" The Crossroads. still keeping it's old world feel including old style shop fitting plus counter with all the different styles of mustards lay out ready for tastings, you will also find a range of 200 condiments.
We found the mustards laid out in the following way.

Mild Mustards = Honey, sage, rosemary, Tarragon, Garlic, Dill & Lemon and Green Peppercorn.
Warmish = Bourbon and Ginger & Orange.
Moderately Hot = Horseradish, chilli and Hot Honey.
Hot = Balsamic, French Style, Spicy Oriental and Three Seed.
Very Hot = Superfine Hot and Flaming Hot Chilli ( BEWARE )

All Mustards are made by David, we had a chance to talk to him, the mustard is grown by them they have kept the look and feel of a cottage industry.

Beechworth

A town with History, we headed for the Information building in the Town Hall/ Old Shire Offices, It's a sunny day the ladies behind the desk are all wrapped up for Arctic weather their heating went down. We picked up a booklet on the town and for the price of $1 A Self Guided Walking Tour.
It follows a route up Ford Street you will then find Williams Street, Camp Street, Church Street and the High Streets off it.
or the cost of $10 per Adult you can go on a walking tour.

Echoes of history
Ned Kelly

Our Highlights

Beechworth Honey we enjoyed tasting the 20 different honeys, they also have live bees in the shop.
Dropped into the sweet shop, no more said!
Lunch in the bakery shop they also have a video running on how to make bread, rolls & pies.
Alpaca shop, Jeannette fell in love with an Alpaca teddy bear, Note $275, made out of 1 baby alpaca, these baby alpaca's have died due to sickness or the freezing weather, the farmers sell them on to make money.There is was a shaw brilliant deep colours very soft it will keep you warm, have you got $750??
A drive around the Beachworth Historic Park that takes in the Gorge and Newtown bridge and falls.

What next Wine Vines & Yards...........................................................

Real Hot Chocolate what a Dream