Tuesday 30 June 2009

A New Dawn - 30th June 2009

Well, after all the planning and farewell partying, we finally set off on our epic adventure. A couple of sets of R-R engines powered us to the other side of the world where we were welcomed by a beautiful sun-rise over (the clouds of) New Zealand.





Once we had broken through the cover, we were treated to the wonderful sights of the snow-covered Southern Alps - whetting the appetite for future trips to the ski-slopes.

I had wondered how I would feel once we landed - indeed had committed some expected emotions to words on an affirmation card - but was not really expecting to deal with the comment from the immigration officer as we passed through passport control......
"Welcome home and good luck in your new life in New Zealand"!

We had been warned that it was cold - but the conditioning had not really prepared for the temperature drop that we experienced - around 20 degrees between the balmy London we left on Sunday and Christchurch this morning! Matt and Louise had kindly arranged to play taxi-drivers and move us to our digs across town although the place was all locked up on arrival and we had to wait around for the agent to arrive and open up.

Once inside we suddenly realised the difference that double glazing and central heating makes to a house in the depths of winter. In the UK, most people can't remember what it was like pre-CH/DG. Well, can I ask you all to dig deep into your sub-conscious and exercise that old dendrite so that you can sympathise with us! BRRRRRRRRR!! Still, it makes for good winter sports!

Anyway - we've arrived safely. Didn't lose any baggage en route and didn't get charged for being well over the limit! We're out setting up bank accounts and buying some mobile phones - plus a few extra layers for around the house! Jet-lag resulted in a 5.30am get-up this morning (Weds) so I think it's going to be another tiring day....

There'll be some pictures posted to this blog in due course - just watch this space.

Ready For Take Off

This blog will be updated in due course with pictures and stories of our last month's preparations before heading off to New Zealand - watch this space!