Fun Tourist Times

Trip Start Jun 01, 2011

Trip End Jun 01, 2012

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Flag of New Zealand Raglan, North Island, New Zealand
Monday, August 15, 2011

I had this past Friday off work and decided to do some sightseeing around Auckland with a friend. First stop-scooter rentals! After we rented the scoots, we stopped at a coffee shop in Grey Lynn, then headed toward the city. Our first stop was Sky Tower to get a 360 view of the city. The Sky Tower is the tallest building in Auckland and probably the most famous. At nighttime they shine different color lights on it depending on whats happening in the world (red and green during Christmas, red white and blue during the 4th of july, etc). On our elevator ride up to the top we met a girl who was doing a bungee off the top for her 21st birthday. Eek! Maybe one day I'll muster up enough courage to try that. In the meantime, I enjoyed just standing up there and looking at the sights. Being on a tight sched (the scooters were due back at 6), we spent about an hour there and then headed off to the Auckland Museum. Since the counrtry is only about 150 yrs old all the museums are mainly focused on Maori culture; to be honest America definately has NZ beat in that respect

Floor view

. Nevertheless it was still fun! Who doesn't love museums. To end the day we went to The Conservatory (the place I work) and had some wine and a cheese plate :). Day=success. Also, this day led me to the conclusion that I definately want to buy a scooter while I'm down here! So much fun to ride and very practical as far as gas and parking are concerned.

The following Sunday Dan, Beth, Pete and I drove to Raglan for a day trip to drop off our other roommate's bed who moved out. The drive down was filled with intermittent rain, sunshine, and friendly insults. After questioning Dan's manhood because the tarp covering the mattress wasn't tied down firmly enough to the trailer, the boys pulled over to remedy the situation. Within seconds of them stepping out of the car, a monsoon came in and completely drenched the guys and the mattress. Beth and I felt really bad that they had to drive the rest of the way to Raglan in soaking wet clothes :/. At least the rest of the drive down was mostly sunny :). When we got to Raglan we headed to a local cafe for lunch and then went down to the beach to look around. Raglan is one of the most famous spots for surfing in NZ, so I'll definately have to go back in summer to check it out. That day it was barely warm enough to get out of the car and walk around, but the views were still gorgeous. No pictures though, forgot my camera at home :(. Next time for sure!

This week has been record low temps in Auckland. Figures! Up until now it has been pretty mild (jeans and a light jacket weather) but on Monday it actually snowed for a minute! (First time in 50 years apparently). No snow stayed on the ground, but the Aucklanders were amazed. Homes in NZ typically dont have central heating, so in the meantime I am cuddling up next to my space heater and blankets to stay warm!

Miss you all! xoxo

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