Day 134 & 135 - Auckland to Birmingham

All checked out by 10am and got a few hours to wait before heading off to the airport, so hung around the hostel and played pool.

Got to the airport at about 1.30pm and unfortunately my first flight (Auckland to Sydney) was delayed an hour and a quarter. Landed into Sydney with 45 minutes to spare before my next flight so i ran through the airport to my next gate and it seems i ran the full length of the airport, got the gate 20 minutes before the scheduled departure only to find that flight had been delayed 30 minutes too. On the plane for my second flight (Sydney-Bangkok-Dubai), and settled in for 17 hours on board. Surprisingly it was quite comfortable, 9 hours to Bangkok, 1 hour sat there to refuel and then 7 hours to Dubai. Arrived into Dubai with 2 hours to spare which i was pleased about as i didn't fancy running through Dubai airport because its absolutely massive. A nice hour or so relaxing in Dubai before another 7 hour flight back to Birmingham. Amazingly all this time sat on planes and having quite a bit of room, at one point 3 seats to myself, i didn't manage to sleep at all so needless to say after 35 hours of travelling i expected to be tired when i got back. My brother very kindly picked me up from the airport and dropped me back home, i had planned to get straight to sleep but somehow i was still quite awake so went to my brothers for dinner and to see my two nephews who i've missed quite a bit and it looked like they'd missed me too.

I am truly amazed at how quick the past four and a half months have gone, there were definitely times when i wanted to be home but 99% of the time it was absolutely amazing. I have seen some cultural aspects and learned some history that shocked me, I have seen some truly stunning places, I have done some activities i never thought i was capable of, but most of all i have met some amazing people and made some great friends and i just hope i can keep in contact with them.

Days 132 & 133 - Auckland

I spent my last 2 days in Auckland relaxing, reading, ambling around and mainly job searching.

I did take a break to play a bit of pool and played a guy who looked a bit serious, had his own cue and everything. I beat him 6-4 and found out afterwards he plays snooker at a national level. Needless to say i felt a bit smug after that. Possible new career???

Day 131 - Taupo to Auckland

Couldn't sleep and was awake from 5am, eventually got out of bed at 7am as i didn't want to disturb my roommates. Did a bit of reading while waiting for the bus which was 35 minutes late, not sure why but can't blame the traffic as Taupo is tiny.

A long day on the bus from 9am until 3pm which a short stop at Matamata, the gateway to Hobbiton, a cool town which several buildings made up to look like Hobbit holes.

A 15 minute walk to my hostel where i have a room all to myself, can't wait to get a decent nights sleep. Only 3 more nights and I'll be heading home!

Days 129 & 130 -Taupo

Spent most of my two days in Taupo walking around but not much as it seems to have gone back in time and became winter again, alot of rain, strong winds and hail!

Wanted to do the Tongariro Crossing which is basically a 19-20km hike across a live volcano, unfortunately due to the weather it had been cancelled for the next few days.

Did a bit of souvenir/gift shopping, saw a marching band through the town which was nice. Alot of coffee drinking and people watching and reading, thought it would be a nice idea to read the JRR Tolkien books as I'm in New Zealand, just finished The Hobbit and now on The Fellowship of The Ring.

Day 128 - Wellington to Taupo

On the bus for 8am and it's only a small group of about 12 now, apparently it's always quieter heading back up to Auckland.
Stopped for a lunch stop on the side of the road, i think the driver suddenly realised that she had to stop for her legally required 30 minute break.

Got to Taupo at about 3pm and went out for a walk, went down to the lake and say watching people attempt the hole in one competition, about 100 yards onto a tiny rock hard platform in the lake, i can only see one possible way of actually getting it in the hole and that's landing straight in because the platform is like concrete, it's never going to stop and roll on it.

Then a few drinks and relaxing on the night. Looking forward to hone now and especially those last few nights in Auckland when I've got my own room.

Small group
Weird stop
Hole in one
Reading

Days 126 & 127 - Wellington

Not much to tell for these two days, muscles are hurting too much to do anything really. So just two days of reading (thought i should read Lord of the Rings as I'm in New Zealand), job hunting, cinema and the occasional short walk.

Day 125 - Wellington

A nice lay in this morning until 10.30, mainly because the clocks have gone forward. The weather is looking much better, bright sunshine but still windy, apparently it's always windy in Wellington.

I've gone for an ambitious plan for the day, trying to take in as many sights as possible working my way to the fat side of the city and if need be I'd catch the bus back.

Started off by heading down to Civic Square and saw the Town Hall and Gallery which was, shall we say, interesting. One particular exhibit was about time i think and consisted of a room which a constantly moving machine and 5 video walls and played about 20 minutes, still have no idea what i actually watched to be honest. Another exhibit was described as middle earth on steroids.

From there i headed to the Wellington and Maritime Museum which again was good.

Then i went to see the Government buildings including the Beehive, then onto the Cathedral which was just ugly, looked quite new and boring, almost just plain concrete. From there i went to see Old St Pauls which was a lovely old timber Church in middle of new high rises, much nicer than the Cathedral.

Now it was time to head back to the hostel and although i was hurting i decided to forgo the bus and to walk/hobble back, an hour later i finally got back for a much needed rest, at least if i don't feel upto it tomorrow i know I've at least ticked alot of boxes today. Unfortunately I've just looked at the photos I've took today and 95% of them have been corrupted so i won't be able to show you how lovely this city is.

Spent the evening relaxing my sore muscles and finishing my book.

Day 124 - Wellington

Up at a more reasonable 9am this morning, unfortunately the weather has took a turn for the worse, wind and rain, so hung around the hostel until it eased a bit.

Went out for a walk and had to cut it short as my back and leg are playing up, really have to get them sorted when i get home.

Said goodbye to Bettina and Ann who are flying back to Auckland today, Bettina to stay her travels home and Ann to head up to the Bay of Islands to try and find some work.

Then i went down to the Te Papa Museum again to see it at my own pace which was good.

Then went for another walk in the evening, not sure if it's because it's Sunday but the city is very quiet.

Day 123 - Wellington

Up at 7am for no reason at all, so sat around reading waiting for Bettina and Ann so we could go exploring.

Started off by going to the Te Papa Museum which was very interesting and interactive. Felt a bit rushed though as Bettina and Ann have only got 2 days here so they're squeezing as much in as possible.

I left them add i didn't want to do to much as I've got 6 days here and don't want to see everything in the first 2.

Back at the hostel i spent the evening sorting out my accommodation for the rest of my time in New Zealand, managed to book a cheap single room for my last 3 nights, woohoo! Looking forward to not having people in and out at all times turning the light on and off.

Day 122 - Kaikoura to Wellington

Up bright and early again, 7am and took a short walk before getting on the bus at 9. En route we stopped at a seal colony which was cool and there were hundreds of them.

Arrived at the ferry terminal for the 1.15 ferry which left an hour late so a bit of waiting around. On board was just chatting and playing cards with a lot of the group sleeping.

Arrived into Windy Wellington at about 6pm and immediately out for food and drinks, was a nice night even though there were only a few of us because most have got to be up early for the bus but there's a few of us stopping in Wellington for a few days which will be nice.

Lake Pukaki photos

Milford Sound photos

Bunjy Jump photos

Day 121 - Christchurch to Kaikoura

A very early start to the day, set off from Christchurch at 7.30am, one short stop for a coffee break, arriving in Kaikoura at 11.30.

Some of the group went whale watching, some went swimming with dolphins, i just went for a walk around the town, which only took about an hour.

Hung around waiting for the group to get back and unfortunately the whale watching got cancelled because the whales were too far out and the dolphin swims boat broke down and they never even got to see any, i think i made the right choice.

A fun evening sitting around drinking and playing cards to finish off the day.

Day 120 - Lake Tekapo to Christchurch

Up at 8am to get on the bus and feeling rough, there are so many germs flying around the bus it seems impossible to get rid of any sort of illness.

Pretty much a straight drive to Christchurch with one short stop for food, arriving at 1.30pm and straight out to walk around.

As Christchurch had 2 major earthquakes 4 or 5 years ago the city is basically a building site. But we did see a shopping mall built entirely out of shipping containers which was pretty cool, a monument to commemorate the people who lost their lives and a cardboard (more like corrugated plastic) Cathedral.

Out on the night for food and drinks, found a nice irish bar, was a nice night with just four of us as the rest of the group stayed in the hostel.

Day 119 - Queenstown to Lake Tekapo

Up and on the bus for 9.30 after saying goodbyes to most of the people I've been travelling with.

Our first stop was at Lake Pukaki which was stunning, the bluest waste i have ever seen with Mount Cook as a backdrop.

Then onto Lake Tekapo which is equally as beautiful, the town is very small though, it took about 3 seconds to drive through. All checked in and everyone is just having a chilled evening after the frivolities of Queenstown. So just sat around chatting and then watched a movie and then an early night after going down to the lake and staring up at the clear sky to see the stars as Lake Tekapo is the largest black sky reserve in the world. It was amazing to see all the stars but I've definitely seen better back home.

Goodbyes
Lake + mount cook

Day 118 - Queenstown

A small lay in this morning, up at about 9.30 and nerves are starting already as I'm about to do my first bunjy jump and it happens to be the 3rd highest in the world at 134m!

Went for a quick walk to kill some time and read my book to take my mind off it which seemed to work. Checked in at the shop and found out that we jump in order of weight, heaviest being first which pleased me as i didn't fancy hanging around, so i would be third off.

45 minute drive up to the jump, everyone getting quite nervous but weirdly i was feeling Ok.

At the jump and harnessed up, had a look over the edge and Oh my god is it high. They took us three first jumpers over in the cable car first and still feeling Ok, just excitement at this stage. Started by getting our leg straps and still feeling good. I got to watch the first two go, the first having dressed up as superman. Started to get a little nervous at this stage. My turn was up and sat me in the chair to attach the bunjy chord, still feeling Ok. Out of the chair and shuffling towards the edge, that's when it hit me what i was about to do, luckily everything goes so quick there's no time to think, a couple of quick photos and 3,2,1, bunjy, no time to hesitate, i jump and it's the most amazing feeling, falling for 8 seconds which feel like 1 and then the bunjy chord kicks in and you're bouncing. Unhook the leg straps and sit there taking in the amazing view before i get pulled back up. Unattached and I'm shaking, i can't believe what I've just done!!! The most amazing feeling though.

Back across to the shop to check out the photos and video which i had to buy and get my ididit t-shirt which got immediately worn.

Another 45 minute drive back to town and everybody feeling pretty pumped, to the pub for a celebratory all day breakfast and a pint.

Out on the night for a pub crawl including the minus 5 bar, which was pretty cool (no pun intended), except they only serve cocktails or shots, and I'm not a fan of either.

An absolutely amazing day!

Bunjy jump
All day breakfast and pint
Bar crawl

Day 116 - Wanaka to Queenstown

Up at 7am so i decided to have a walk down to the lake to get a coffee, so glad i did because it was so clear and the view was awesome.

On the bus at 8.30 and off to Puzzling World, which didn't particularly sound great but luckily it was free to suit in the café and do some of the puzzles, only there for an hour before we headed off to Queenstown.

On the way we stopped off at AJ Hacketts bungy Centre for people who wanted to to book their activities for the next few days, while we were there two of the lads decided they couldn't wait a few days so just went for it and did a bungy off a bridge, dipping into the river below, was pretty cool watching them.

Then onto Queenstown arriving at about 3pm, all checked in and some of us were so hungry we dumped our bags and headed off to try the world famous Fergburger. It was definitely worth the 20 minute queue, absolutely amazing burger.

Then out on the night as a lot of the buses have sort of congregated in Queenstown so i met a lot of people from my old bus. A good night out finishing in Cowboys which serve litre steins of beer, nice but dangerous.

Day 115 - Franz Josef to Wanaka

Started the day off getting soaked through walking down to meet the bus. We stopped off at Lake Matheson to see the mirror reelection of Mount Cook in the water, unfortunately it was tipping it down so there wasn't much of a view.

Stopped off a few more times including Lake Hawea which was stunning especially as the sun had now made an appearance.

Then on to Wanaka getting there at about 5pm. All checked in and out for a walk, this is a truly beautiful town, sat on the side of Lake Wanaka with snow topped mountains in the background. This is definitely a place i could spend some time.

Day 114 - Franz Josef Ice Explorer

Up early again this morning to go on the Franz Josef Ice Explorer, all checked in at the shop and kitted out in our hiking gear. And we were told we may have to come back early because the weather was meant to get bag in the afternoon, luckily it held out and we had a full trip.

The trip started with a helicopter ride up on to the glacier, which was cool being my first time in a helicopter. The flight in was amazing, i still can't believe that this spectacular glacier is so accessible. Spent 3 hours up on the ice, walking and climbing and going into little caves, and also having snow ball fights. It was truly amazing. I still can't quite get my head around just how big it was, you just lose all perspective until you see some other hikers way off in the distance and they just look like tiny specks. Then another helicopter ride back to town and as we got there the rain came, so we were very lucky.

Spent the night drinking and playing games in the hostel as sine of the others had decided or hostel was better.

Day 113 - Westport to Franz Josef

Another long day on the bus, left at 9.30am, stopping off at Pancake Rocks along the way, which are really cool, basically rock formations that look like stacks of pancakes.

Eventually arrived into Franz Josef at 4.30pm, confirmed our activities for tomorrow and up to the hostel. Got the hostel and although it seemed very nice, me and a few of the others were getting a bit annoyed at paying top dollar everywhere we go just because Kiwi "recommends" it. So asked the driver about a hostel we had seen in the way in and she told us, oh that one's rubbish, but thought we'd give it a go anyway. It turns out she's wrong, it was a lovely, cheap place, $7 a night less than the recommended one and had free wifi, free breakfast, free dinner and a free limo tour of the town. I don't think we'll be listening to the driver again.

Back down to the bar on the night for a few beers and the rock, paper, scissors competition. One of our bus won a free bungy swing in Queenstown.

Day 117 - Milford Sound

Up bright and early after 3 hours sleep to get on the bus for a day trip out to Milford Sound. A lot of weary people on the bus today after a big night out. I was feeling surprisingly Ok though.

A long drive out to Milford Sound, as the crow flies is only 117km but because of how windy the road is, is actually over 300km to drive.

The drive was good though, stopping at done beautiful places along the way, including a mirror pond where we could see perfect reflections of the mountains in the background and Monkey Creek where we could fill out water bottles with some lovely fresh water. Our driver today was awesome too, really funny but at the same time so knowledgeable and so passionate about what he was showing us.

Arrived into Milford for the 1.30pm ferry tour, when we started it was quite cloudy and kind of eerie, all you could see was hints of gigantic things hidden behind the clouds and mist. About half way the clouds cleared and it was just spectacular, again like Franz Josef i just felt so small and insignificant in this amazingly beautiful place.

Back on the bus for our long drive back to Queenstown, getting back at nearly 8pm it was a really long but amazing day. So just a quick $5 Domino's and a beer with Battina before heading back to the hostel to chill.

Amazing day!

Day 109 - 111 - Kaiteriteri

Not much to tell about my time in Kaiteriteri as it was just some time to chill and relax and hopefully get rid of this damn man flu.

So most of my time was spent on the beach, reading my book. Taking part in the pub quizzes, no drinking rounds here though so i couldn't show off my new skill of downing a pint in 3 seconds. Also went with Battina to watch her so her skydive, wow she was so excited.

A nice few days!

Day 112 - Kaiteriteri to Westport

Back on the bus now and left Kaiteriteri at 9.30am, our first stop was at Nelson Lake which i can imagine would be very picturesque, unfortunately for us it was tipping it down. That didn't stop a few people jumping in though, they didn't stay in long though.

Then another long drive to Westport. Our driver decided to try and make the journey go quicker by making us all play speed dating which was, shall we say, interesting.

Arrived into Westport at about 6pm and checked into our funky hostel, it had a bit of a reggae vibe, it was pretty cool.

Spent the night cooking and chatting with a few of the girls while the majority of the group went to get drunk at the brewery, apparently some of them had a very good night as two of them were caught having sex in the corridor in the early hours on CCTV cameras, oh dear.

Day 108 - Wellington to Kaiteriteri

Up bright and early to get the bus to the ferry, 7.15am and on the boat at 8.30. A nice 3 hour ferry ride across The Cook Strait to the South Island, on which most of the group slept as they didn't get in until 5am after a night out in Wellington.

Then a long drive to Kaiteriteri arriving at about 5pm, and a relatively chilled night in the bar as most of the bus were in bed for 9pm recovering from Wellington.

Looking forward to some time off the bus over the next few days as I've decided to stay in Kaiteriteri for 4 nights.

Day 107 - River Valley to Wellington

Woke up this morning not wanting to get out bed as I've developed the start of man flu. Feeling pretty rough. So just hung around the lodge waiting for the group that had gone white water rafting.

Not much to tell for the rest of the day, left at about 12.30 and arrived into Wellington at about 7pm. I was planning on stopping for 4 days but as it's the All Black game on Saturday every need is taken so unfortunately just the one night, and as i wasn't feeling too good i spent the night relaxing in the hostel.

Day 106 - Taupo to River Valley

Our first stop today was a ski resort up in the mountains to take a short walk up to a lookout to check out Mount Doom. A pretty spectacular view. The temperature has definitely dropped now, wooly hats and jumpers are out.

Then heading south to River Valley, a very remote lodge in the middle of nowhere. A very scenic drive in, some of the most beautiful scenery I've ever seen.

Arrived at River Valley which is just beautiful. A timber lodge ay the bottom of a valley with a stunning river flowing just out the front. A lovely home made roast dinner and a few drinks along with playing some games. A really nice day.

Day 105 - Taupo

After the adrenaline of yesterday i was feeling pretty tired today so i just spent the day walking around the beautiful Lake Taupo finding a nice spot to stop and read.

Sitting by the lake just starting out at the snowy mountains in the distance was a really nice way to spend the day.

Day 104 - Rotorua to Taupo

We started out that day gong to a Geothermal Park which was very interesting, saw a Maori welcoming ceremony, also Maori carving and weaving school. Also alot of hot pools, one of which was hot enough to boil eggs, also a 30 metre geyser.

From there we made a short stop at Huka falls to check out the 11x7m waterfall, quite impressive.

Then headed into Taupo and checked into the hostel, just an hours wait until i got picked up for my skydive. Picked up in a limo which was cool. I'd felt nervous all day but now it was just excitement i was feeling.

It started off with the obvious safety brief and selling of photos and videos. The bloke was so good at putting you at ease. Unfortunately a bit of waiting now as we were on the 2nd plane. My instructor, Carl again was great at easing my nerves. Up the plane and climbing, he said we're now at 3000ft, how are you feeling, i said great but i can't believe we've still got 9000ft to go, it looked so high. The view was absolutely spectacular, could see the massive Lashes Taupo beneath us, snow caped mountains in the distance, i don't think i could have picked a more beautiful spot for my first skydive.

It was seconds between racing 12000ft and actually jumping, sat on the side, legs dangling out and then we were out, there are no words to describe the feeling, it was like nothing i ever imagined. 45 seconds later the shoot opened and we just floated down taking in the amazing view, i got to steer as well which was cool, taking us into a fast spin. About 5 minutes before we landed, i can honestly say it was the most exhilarating thing i have ever done.

Then back to the hostel for drinks and celebrating, an absolute amazing day!

Day 103 - Waitomo to Rotorua

On the bus for 10.30 and on our way to Hobbiton, the set of the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies. Everyone was incredibly excited, like little kids, can't wait to get there.

Before the tour started i took a look in the gift shop and spotted something i just had to have, The One Ring 😄. Off on the tour and walking around all the hobbit holes and finishing at the Green Dragon for a beer. A great day in the sun.

A short drive onto to Rotorua. 30 of the group had booked onto an overnight stay at a Maori village leaving 8 of us to stay in Rotorua. A nice chilled out, domesticated evening.

Day 102 - Hot Water Beach to Waitomo

Not the best nights sleep as the smoke alarm kept going off but up and on the bus to head to Waitomo.

On the way we stopped off at some mines to have a look around and walk through the tunnels. Possibly the midday beautiful mining site i have ever seen with a river flowing through it. Then onto Waitomo arriving at about 1.30pm.

All checked in and then straight to the Waitomo Caves for the Black Abyss caving experience. I wasn't sure whether i wanted to do this or not but I'm so glad i did. Started off with getting changed into a very fetching wet suit and gum boots. Then off to the caves, the first task was a 100ft abseil down a very narrow, dark hole which was amazing, loved the feeling of not being able to see the bottom. Next was a zip line through an opening full of glow worms, it was like flying through space. Then it was jumping into the water with a rubber tube and floating through the caves in darkness again staring up at the glow worms filling the darkness. Next was a series of walks/swims through the caves, crawling through narrow holes, crawling under rocks and climbing up waterfalls. I was first to make the climb out of the caves and it felt amazing, coming out into the darkness of night and selling the starry sky above. An absolute amazing experience, definitely one of my favourite things on this trip.

Then back to the hostel for dinner and down to the bar for a "few" beers.

An awesome day!

Day 101 - Auckland to Hot Water Beach

On the bus for 8.40 and stopped off at Mount Eden to take a short 30 minute walk up to the top to see the crater and the views out over Auckland.

Then down to Hot Water Beach and checked into our accommodation which is really nice. A holiday park but much nicer than you would expect.

We then went on a 2 hour walk to Cathedral Cove which again was beautiful even though it was raining.

Back to the hostel for dinner which was awesome as 8 of us had decided to chip in and get the ingredients for a chilli. A much needed proper meal.

Then down to the beach at about 8pm to dig ourselves a hot water spa the sand. I have no idea what causes it but the water that comes up through the sand when you start digging is absolutely boiling to the point i think i may burned my feet.

Day 100 - Paihia to Auckland

A small lay in this morning as we didn't need to check out until 10.

A few of us decided to go on a short walk up to a lookout which was hard work because although it was a short walk it was very steep. A beautiful view grin the to though of The Bay of Islands.

On the bus at 1.30pm and back into Auckland for 6pm. Quickly dropped our stuff into the hostel and our for $5 pizza from Domino's which was amazing.

Then out for a few drinks and early night which turned into a lot of drinks and a late night, great night though!

Day 98 - Cape Reinga

Up bright and early this morning which wasn't easy after a fair few drinks last night. 7.10am pick up for our day trip to Cape Reinga.

Drove for about an hour up the coast before taking the bus onto the beach to drive up 90 mile beach weird weirdly is only about 90km long. Saw some seals on the beach which was cool.

We then turned off the beach to drive up a stream (actually in the water) for 3km which was interesting. Stopped up the stream to go body boarding down the sand dunes, unfortunately because the rain had made alot of the dunes collapse into the steam we had a fairly long steep walk to get to the top of the dunes. Body boarding was quite fun but definitely not worth the walk.

We then drove upto the top of New Zealand where two oceans meet. A stunning drive up, the scenery here is absolutely spectacular. Similar to Britain but you can see for miles, i never knew there were so many different shades of green. The top of New Zealand is a beautiful place with amazing views.

We then headed back stopping off at a wood carving place, the things they have managed to carve is amazing including a set of spiral stairs carved into the middle of one tree. Again heading back down south we stopped off for sine award winning fish (Harpuka) and chips which was beautiful.

Our last stop was a short walk in the forest to see just how big the trees grow here, absolutely massive is the answer.

Then back to Paihia for about 6pm and back to the bar for more drinks, quiz night tonight in which i got nominated by my team to take part in a skulling beers contest, the teams had to bet on who would win and if they were right they got a point for their team. I was up against a small South African, a smaller Aussie and a big Kiwi. All but 2 teams bet on the Kiwi with 1 team being on the South African and my team betting on me. I won with time to spare apparently ☺.

Another great day.

Day 99 - Bay of Islands boat trip

Another early start to be down at the pier for 8.45am to go or boat trip around The Bay Of Islands.

It's a beautiful Bay with 144 Islands, we saw a few tiny little Islands which are privately owned, some people have definitely got themselves a slice of paradise. Saw a few dolphins on the way too which was nice. Then upto the hole in the rock which is exactly as described, we were supposed to take the boat through but unfortunately the sea was a bit too rough.

Sailing back we stopped at a beautiful island for lunch, such an amazing spot to just sit and take in the views.

On the way back we decided to get off at Russell to have a look around and take advantage of our free ferry ticket back. Russell is a beautiful quiet little town and an amazing place just to suit on the waterfront and have some food.

Then back to Paihia for a much needed early night after the last 2.

Another nice day.

Day 97 - Auckland-Paihia

An early start today to start my Kiwi Experience trip, 7am on the bus and heading up to Paihia.

Arrived out about 12pm and checked into quite a nice hostel, the other people on the trip seem quite cool too.

A few of us decided to go on an ambitious 14km walk but i quit about half way there and headed back into town to check it out and then back to the hostel. Paihia is a really nice little coastal town.

Out to the hostel bar on the night for BBQ quite a few drinks and to get to know the group, a really good first day of the trip.

Days 95-96 - Auckland

I knew New Zealand was going to be colder but i didn't appreciate just how much colder, so took a bus out to Kmart to get me some cheap warmer clothes.

After doing a bit of reading on Auckland i found that there's not much to do here at all, so i spent most of the 2 days engrossed in my book and trying to avoid my roommate who want best pleased that she had to share her room even though she was in a 4 bed dorm. She had spread herself out so much that when i first walked in i didn't think there was a free bed.

Also walked up to the Art Gallery which was had some more "interesting" modern art as well as some older stuff which i could actually appreciate.

Day 94 - Cairns to Auckland

Not the best start to my day. Found out my New Zealand travel card from the safe place i hid it, only to find that it had snapped right down the middle, rang them to arrange for a new one to be sent out as i knew where I'd be for the next 3 days, and they tell me that it will take 5 days to get there, awesome. Fortunately it still works even though is hanging by a thread holding itself together.

Then the shuttle i had booked to the airport was 30 minutes late, glad i played it safe and booked an earlier time.

Then checking in at the airport i find that STA hadn't added any luggage allowance to my flight even after i queried it with them, so had to fork out $120 to check my bag, awesome considering the flight was only $200.

Landed in Auckland at 6pm and took until 7.30 just to get out of the airport, NZ seem to be even more strict about what you can and cannot bring into the country.

Got into Auckland and checked in by 8 and by this time i was so shattered that i quickly grabbed something to eat and went to bed.

Days 92-93 - Cairns

After 2 busy long days i decided to do nothing at all, just getting ready for New Zealand, walking around and finding spots to do some reading, I'm glad I've found my passion for reading again. Currently going through Dan Browns work.

Atherton Tablelands pictures

Day 91 - Atherton Tablelands

Up again early for our 7.20 pick up, Conny again joining me which is cool.

Jimi our guide for the day greeted everyone with a hug. And amazingly after 5 minutes of meeting all 20 of us he could remember all of our names and where we were from. Jimi was an absolute legend all day, so funny and always getting everybody involved. By far the best tour guide I've ever had.

We had about an hour to our first stop at Lake Eacham. Jimi had developed a nipple rating system for how cold the water was going to be and our first was a 4.5 apparently. Probably about right because once you were in for a minute or so it was Ok. On the way to Lake Eacham we stopped off to see a 500 year old Strangler Fig Tree called the Cathedral, it was absolutely huge, big enough that all 20 of us could get inside of it for a photo. 

From there we went to a little town called xxxxxx which has the biggest wooden pub in the southern hemisphere, I love it how they always boat about the having the best things in the southern hemisphere, they haven't exactly got much competition.

From there to Dinner Falls and The Crater, The Crater was exactly how it sounds and on the way Jimi had picked up a rock to throw into the water below, the sound was absolutely immense. At Dinner Falls (9 on the nipple rating) one of the guys did his ice bucket challenge and then jumped into the water, amazing place to do it. This was definitely sine of the coldest water I have ever been in, as soon as you touched it you wanted to get back out.

From there we headed to Millaa Millaa falls which is an amazingly beautiful waterfall where apparently the L'Oréal hair flick commercial was filmed, as was Peter Andres music video. Definitely the highlight of Australia for me was swimming underneath the waterfall standing the other side and seeing lots of little rainbows, absolutely stunning.

Then on to Josephine Falls for our last swim of the day, here there is a natural water slide in the rocks which is so cool to go down.

An absolute amazing day.

On the night most of the group meet up at PJ O'Briens for food and drinks which was so much fun, meet some really cool people on this trip.

Definitely one of the best days I've had in oz and what a way to finish my oz trip.

Day 90 - Great Barrier Reef

Up at 6.30am to head down to the pier for 7.30am. Conny has booked into my hostel too so she's coming on the snorkeling trip as well.

A nice walk in the chilly morning air down the esplanade, when we first saw the boats we were a little disappointed as they were all big ferry style boats, but once we saw ours we were happy, a massive sailing catamaran.

60 passengers aboard and lots of forms to fill out (health and safety). 2 hours out to our first snorkeling spot, a little sand Island just off the reef. The coral was absolutely amazing, all different colours and shapes and some parts so shallow you could actually touch it.

Back on and short 10 minute journey to our next spot, more in the sea and very rough. Really difficult to snorkel as the waves kept filing the tube. But still amazing, I enjoyed going to the edge and staring over into the deep chasms below.

2 hours back to Cairns, this time with the sail up. I love sitting on the front as the boat goes up and down over the waves. One guy decided to suit in the nets at the front and kept getting absolutely drenched, at one point he was told to hang on otherwise he could washed overboard.

Amazing trip followed by drinks and food at the Wool Shed with some friends we made on the boat.

A great day!

Days 87-89 - Misson Beach to Cairns

A short drive up to Cairns from Misson Beach and checked into Globetrotters, got here at 1.30 and found that receipting wasn't open until 5pm so quite a long time hanging around.

Spent the first 3 days just walking around the city, finding nice places to just sit and relax and read my book, it's a nice city but not much to do here, most attractions are day trips out of the city.

It's been a really nice chilled start to my last week in Australia.

Day 86 - Misson Beach

Up at 8am add didn't sleep very well. Went and sat on the beach for a couple of hours, sent a congratulations message written in the sand to my cousin who had just got married. Hopefully she liked it.

Back to the hostel and Nina dragged me on a walk up the coast trying to find a lookout, after 2 hours of walking we didn't find it so turned back, it was a nice walk though through some rainforest and along the beach. After the long walk back I just sat and read and fell asleep, a much needed nap.

Another night of sitting around chatting and drinking, an old Australian guy was stopping in my room, was quite funny listening to his drunken stories.

Another good day.

Day 85 - Magnetic Island to Mission Beach

Checked out and ready to catch the 10.40 bus to the ferry. A short 15 minute drive but stood up all the way struggling to stay stood with my backpack on, definitely gave my arms a good workout. Bus was a bit late so straight onto the ferry and leave beautiful Magnetic Island.

Off into Townsville and the Greyhound was already waiting. A good job it was really as a group of 8 women had at least 5 bags each (you're only aloud 2) and various bits and pieces, they nearly filled the storage on their own, the driver didn't look very happy.

Nearly 4 hours upto Mission Beach, picked up by the hostel and drive back. The hostel is a lovely little place and so quiet and everyone so friendly. A 20 second walk to the beach.

Took a walk up the beach with Nina who I'd just met at the hostel, a nice hour spent walking the beach and chatting. Back to the hostel for Domino's (pizza not the game) night, the manager made the long 50km trip to pick up the pizzas, 2 hours to get there and back, amazingly they were still warm. She also brought back a box of goon (wine) for everyone to share. Some of the guys let me buy some beers off them too so it was a good night drinking and chatting, however I was made to sit and watch an "iconic" Australian film, Red Dog. There's 2 hours of my life I'm not getting back.

A nice first day in a very chilled out place.

Day 84 - Magnetic Island

Tried to get up for the sunrise as planned last night but to no avail. Got up at 8.30am and meet up with Conny and Katie who did manage to get up.

The plan was to walk to Horseshoe Bay on the opposite side of the island, a short 12km walk, however I got half way and my knee started playing up so I left the girls to it, had a rest in the beautiful and deserted Geoffrey Bay before heading back to the hostel.

Spent the afternoon reading on the balcony overlooking the sea, was pretty good to be honest. Also worked out that I should have enough money to stay in a hotel for a couple of nights in Cairns before heading to New Zealand ☺

Conny got back at about 5pm so had dinner drinks. Found out that Katie had managed to get a free sailing trip with some guys who wanted some company, she got ay 8pm. Had a few more drinks and had an early night.

Day 83 - Airlie Beach to Magnetic Island

Checked out early due to another crap nights sleep. Waited around for Conny who I met on the boat as we're both heading to Magnetic Island. Had a slow walk up to the bus where we met our driver who insisted on showing us his odd socks, a very happy chappy bless him.

A 5 hour journey up the coast to Townsville, we arrived at 2.10pm and luckily made it for the 2.15 ferry. A short 20 minute journey over to Magnetic Island, from the sea it looks incredible.

Onto a public bus for a 15 minute drive to the hostel and is absolutely amazing, right on the beach, my room has a particularly beautiful view with a balcony jutting out over the rocks below on the beach. I can see why people spend weeks here.

Out for a quick walk back to the main town with Conny and Katie who we met on the bus as there is nothing at all around the hostel.

Back to the hostel for drinks and food, and later bingo, which was great fun watching everyone get really into it and having to do certain things when particular numbers were called. Katie managed to win a pink elephant she had been eyeing up from the grabber machine, on the first attempt I might add, never seen anyone so excited!

A great day and an amazingly beautiful place!

Sailing the Whitsundays

Day 82 - Airlie Beach

Decided to stay an extra night in Airlie because of how wet all me clothes got on the boat and need to wash everything. Unfortunately my room was booked for the extra night so had to check out and check back in to a different room. So used the 3 hours I had to wait to get everything washed.

I think I caught the sun a little bit too much in the few hours it was shining on the boat because I pretty much slept the whole day once I checked back in.

Another rubbish nights sleep thanks to someone getting back at 3am and their key not working, so if it wasn't enough she woke me up to let her in she then proceeded to have sex with the random guy she'd brought back with her, classy!

Day 81 - Whitsunday Sailing

Up at about 7.30am and everyone feeling surprisingly Ok despite the alcohol that was drunk. Unfortunately so raining but not as bad and not much wind si the sea was a lot calmer.

Today was snorkeling day so we headed off to our first spot, it took me a while to get used to the breathing but I got it in the end, saw some really cool stuff, coral and colourful fish, was quite good. We then headed off to our second spot where half the group went diving and the test of us snorkeling and we were told we would see much more. I can't explain how many fish were in this spot, all swimming around you, there must've been thousands, all different and so colourful, some even looked illuminous, I even found Nemo! The coral was amazing too, again some appearing illuminous. It was absolutely spectacular. None of us wanted to get out.

Eventually we got out and lunch was ready, definitely the best I've eaten since being out here.

Then it was the long journey back to Airlie Beach. We saw a few whales, one that kept slapping is fin on to the sea, looked as though it was waving at us. The sun finally made appearance and everyone was very happy to say the least. We were making good time so the Captain decided to stop and let us have a swim in the ocean, lots of back flips and bombs from the boat, was quite cool.

Arrived back into Airlie at about 4.30pm and all headed back into town to our respective hostels, most of us stopping at the same ones which was good.

We headed to the Down Under Bar where a table had been reserved for us for an after sailing party, a great night of food and drink before we went back to the lads hostel to finish the rest of the goon and some more drinking games. Wasn't too late a night as everyone was pretty tired.

An absolutely amazing trip and great experiences, I'm not sure it would've been as good if we didn't have the rain and wind, not for me anyway, I feel like I had a proper sailing experience, it was awesome bro (as the captain would say).

Day 80 - Whitsunday Sailing

Checked out at 6.30am, a little early but was wide awake. A slow walk in the rain upto the marina, waited by the what I thought was the Barcelona Cafe to meet the group. It wasn't until I read the sign fully that it said Barcelona Cafe in 500m, so ran up and was still waiting 15 minutes as the crew wasn't ready.

The rain was really pouring now and so we boarded, the boat can take 22 passengers, luckily there were only 11 of us so it should be nice and comfortable. We set off, all out on deck in our lovely rain coats. Once we got out to see we (me and Josh) hoisted the main sail, which was really quite difficult.

Our first destination was to Whitehaven Beach, and on the way the wind was really rough and the boat was crashing over the waves, which was amazing to experience. The two French guys at the front of the boat dancing away in the rain hanging on for dear life will be one thing I'll never forget.

Arrived just as the rain stayed to ease off and all piled into the dingy to head over to the land. Had a walk through the forest to some lookouts for some photos and then down onto the beach, where unfortunately it started raining again, that didn't stop some going for a swim though, figured we were so wet anyway that it didn't matter. The beach was amazing, so big and that was with the tide in, can't imagine how big it would be with the tide out.

Back on the boat we had lunch and Oyster (not his real name) had prepared some amazing and massive food for us, we were definitely going to be fed well.

From there we set sail again in the rain to head for our overnight spot in a bay so it would be nice and sheltered, from the wind at least.

Settled down and that's when the drinking games started and unfortunately white wine or goon add they call it here was all that was on offer, so to say it got a bit messy would be an understatement. I ended up staying up until 1.30am with James, a 17 year old lad who hadn't really drank beige and was feeling a bit worse for wear. He was Ok in the end though.

Despite the weather it was a great day and I think we had an authentic sailing experience.

Day 79 - Airlie Beach

Arrived into Airlie at 7am after another horrible journey. Australia is one of the few countries with financial stability, I know the main reason, they don't spend any money on the roads. Also had 2 meal stops at midnight and 4am, who eats then?

The bus dropped us well outside of town after driving straight past where everybody would be staying, so had to walk 30 minutes back into town to the hostel. Obviously far too early to check in so dropped my bags off and went for a walk, didn't end up walking far though, ended up on a bench by the seafront and nearly fell asleep. Went to pick up my boarding pass for sailing tomorrow and I am on a boat called Siska which has sailed in and won a few yacht races (glad I didn't get the Spank Me boat I've been hearing so much about).

Airlie Beach is a beautiful little town, very nicely presented and very clean as is the rest of Australia I've seen.

Back to the hostel to check in at 11am and again nearly fell asleep in reception waiting for the room to be cleaned.

Needless to say the rest of the day was spent sleeping and rearranging my bags as there is a 10kg limit so my big bag will be stopping at the hostel.

Day 78 - Hervey Bay and night bus

One of the best nights sleep I've had since being in Australia. Eventually got up at 10.30, walked down to the sea front again and to have a look around and make some phone calls to confirm other trips.

Decided to walk up to the bus station instead of catching the bus, wish I hadn't as carrying my 30kg of bags was hard work, arrived at about 3.30 to get something to eat but just ended up reading until the bus got there.

On the bus at 5.15pm to head to Airlie Beach. Not the most exciting of days but a much needed rest day.

Fraser Island Photos