Well, we’ve been in Auckland 4 days now. Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand and very cosmopolitan. Our hotel is across the street from the University of Auckland, one of the prettiest schools we have ever seen. It is surrounded by parks and beautiful ornate and modern buildings. Our first day in Auckland we found ourselves in the middle of a student concert in the park. We bought a hot dog and sat on the grass, along with students from all over the world, and listened to loud (too loud) music. We’ve become experts in getting around Auckland. We know how to take the free bus to shopping and the $1.60 bus to the outskirts of the city. We’re very close to the harbor which they call the viaduct. The Americas Cup boats are all harbored there and they are a site to behold. We had a Brazilian dinner with Jana, Will and Lori Smith (my friend, Helen’s daughter) on the harbor and ate the best NZ lamb along with a plethora of other foods. They didn’t stop bringing us food for 2 hours. We then walked the harbor and had cappuccino and sorbet for dessert. What a life these people lead. They love their coffee and they love to unwind. New Zealanders are gracious and helpful - occasionally we have a hard time understanding them as they speak very fast. This is a very multicultural community with many Asians and people from India. Well, off to our next adventure. See you very soon.

Love, The Kiwi Girls