Hello from NZ!!!

Hi all!

I am in New Zealand with all the lovely Kiwi's. We arrived and it was very dark because it was so early so we did not want to wander the streets in the dark and it was raining so we were able to get a spot right away at the hostel. So we slept until about noon and then walked around and figured out our plans. We tried to go to sky tour,but it was closed due to weather. So we then went to the quays and went on a city tour. We walked around and we then were cold and wet so we had coffee and we kept remarking about the weather and how we can not even use umbrellas becasue the wind was stronger than we had ever seen. it was difficult to move in it and then difficult to catch your breath!!!! We figured that it was typical kiwi weather and
thought nothing of it. Then we had coffee and the doors of the shop were shaking violently. The next day we heard on the radio and in the paper that there were gale force winds and a hurricane warning. The roof of a flat in Auckland blew off and they were without power for 3 days in Corremandel. So, I guess anything is better than that!

T is enjoying the hostelling vibe, which is wicked. We went on a magic bus trip to the Waitomo caves and saw the glow worms. it was very impressive. We then went to Rotorua for a hangi and Maori show. Our hostel in Rotorua had a mineral pool, so we got up early for a swim. It was steamy and warm. We were not able to zorb. :( We did go to huka falls today on a crazy rad jet boat.

Just put the prawns in a "chilly bin".

We are well and safe and having a wonderful time. I had Maori sweet potato twice. I can not get a hold of CL, but it is the school holiday util Monday I think so maybe then. I left a message on her machine. I called Cl and she will meet us in Auckland on Sunday. I have to call her again tomorrow. She seemed happy to hear from us! Where did they sign that treaty? We went to the zoo as well and saw a real kiwi bird. I have finally figured out what to wear to be warm. Two sweaters and a jacket and a scarf and a hood.

It is actually like a late fall day in Calgary, but at home we would wear gloves and winter jackets. Kiwi people wear shorts and capri's though.

Let T's mom know that we are well when you talk to her again!

I will e-mail again. Hope all is as good on the Northern Hemisphere as it is on the Southern.

Love,
Natalie