-
Herşey Dahil Sadece 350 Tl'ye Web Site Sahibi Ol
Hızlı ve kolay bir şekilde sende web site sahibi olmak istiyorsan tek yapman gereken sitenin aşağısında bulunan iletişim formu üzerinden gerekli bilgileri girmen. Hepsi bu kadar.
-
Web Siteye Reklam Ver
Sende web sitemize reklam vermek veya ilan vermek istiyorsan. Tek yapman gereken sitenin en altında bulunan yere iletişim bilgilerini girmen yeterli olacaktır. Ekip arkadaşlarımız siziznle iletişime gececektir.
-
Web Sitemizin Yazarı Editörü OL
Sende kalemine güveniyorsan web sitemizde bir şeyler paylaşmak yazmak istiyorsan siteinin en aşağısında bulunan iletişim formunu kullanarak bizimle iletişime gecebilirisni
On to Fiji - The arrival
5/08/05 - 6/12/05
by KT
Read about Passage here
Savusavu and Around
Savusavu is Vanua Levu's second largest town (the 2000 issue of South Pacific Lonely Planet reported a population of 2000). The population is predominantly Fijian and Indian. It's one main street has a number of shops including a huge open market (fresh veggies and fruit), more than one grocery store (although all smaller than those in the states), clothing and tourist shops, and even a number of restaurants. There are buses, taxis, and lots of cars. For Chris and I it actually felt large and hectic!
As we experienced across the South Pacific, the people are wonderful. BULA! BULA! (Hello! Hello!). Everyone yells as we walk along the main street. Their huge smiles are catching and you can't help but enthusiastically reply back, BULA!
Andy and Riley had 12 days before their return flight and were itching to get going. Chris and I like to unwind and relax after a passage, plus there are usually a number of maintenance tasks that have to be completed. So for the next few days Andy and Riley went off to explore the town, snorkel, and just generally do anything that would get them off the boat while Chris and I went to "work". It didn't help that on our first day there the outboard engine died and Chris found "sludge" in our diesel fuel (of the main boat engine). Nor did the constant falling ash from nearby copra fires make getting (or keeping) the boat clean easy.
Curly later put on another great seminar on "Where to cruise in Fiji". He along with other long time Fiji cruisers reviewed charts and locations. Talked about their favorite places and places they would skip. It was our first look at just how much fun Fiji was going to be!
Roddick Reunion
Halfway into last year's season I learned that a cousin of mine (to be exact my Grandpa's Cousin's son) has a house in Fiji. As Fiji wasn't in last year's plans we weren't able to hook up. When I emailed them before leaving New Zealand, they decided to fly out and try to meet up with us. As it turns out their house is just 15-20 minutes outside Savusavu. Our timing was perfect, George (my cousin) and his wife Patti arrived on the 19th. Chris and I met them for lunch on the 20th (Andy and Riley had opted to go snorkeling). The last time I had seen George I was somewhere between 10 and 13, so I really didn't remember him much. This made me a bit nervous - just because we're family didn't mean we would "gel". But it was all for not because George and Patti are Great! We had a fantastic lunch filled with non-stop conversation. Afterwards Patti introduced us to her favorite Market vendors, Kamla and Raj. We made plans to visit their house the following day and discussed all sorts of other potential things to do around the island. George and Patti would be in Fiji until June 9th and during their stay they showed us some fantastic parts of Vanua Levu.
On Saturday (21st) we all (Andy and Riley included) spent a day enjoying their amazing views while soaking in their horizon pool. Chris and I loved their house and location so much that we are now convinced that somehow, someway we MUST buy land here!
On the 23rd we had George and Patti over to the boat for appetizers and sunset drinks. It started with a good laugh, when George fell off the dinghy (into the water) while climbing aboard, but somehow in an amazing acrobatic maneuver, managed to save his video camera. I was relieved to find he was very good humored about it!
Two nights later Chris and I were going to join George and Patti at a local carnival, but due to rain opted for dinner out instead (Andy and Riley had decided to take the ferry over to Taveuni for a two night adventure). Chris and I spent the following night up at their house where we enjoyed local Indian cuisine (prepared by their "house girl", Rada), endless amounts of power (we watched a movie), and a real shower! The next day we went off-roading (dusty, unpaved roads) into some remote locations in search of "the waterfall" that I had read about. Luckily George and Patti had asked around and gotten some general directions ... although had two small boys not guided us in, we would've probably walked aimlessly for hours!
On Saturday (now May 28th) they took the four of us (Andy and Riley were back from Taveuni) to one of the nearby villages. The visit was especially unique to Andy and Riley who had only seen the larger towns of Fiji. The minute we pulled up twenty pairs of little eyes peered out at us from within houses and behind trees; the children are always the first to arrive. We waited for Satari to come out and meet us (George and Patti know her through friends of theirs and they had arranged our visit through her). She took us to her house, many of the children following curiously behind. Her husband, Joshua, is second man to the chief and he came to greet us shortly after. George and Patti had previously visited the village and had been welcomed through the Sevusevu ceremony. Because of this, they will always be welcomed, as was apparent when Joshua said, "Welcome Home" to them. Although no Sevusevu was required, we still presented a gift of Yuqona roots (Kava) along with rice and sugar. Joshua walked us around the village. While villagers don't have much in material possessions, they have a lot of pride and big hearts. The villages are clean and well groomed, and everywhere we walked people came out to say hello, shake our hands, or offer us food. After our tour we took a refreshing swim in the river. This type of activity is always a favorite of ours, because we get to play with the children. This time it was cannon balls, king of the raft, and tossing kids through the air. As always their smiles and laughter were infectious. After the swim, Satari treated us to some kind of cooked, smoky flavored banana dish. I swear I really really tried to like it, but between the slimy texture and the strong flavor, every bite I took triggered a gag reflection. I was determined to eat it, I wouldn't dare waste something as important as food, but was luckily saved by Chris who after seeing the desperation in my eyes finished mine for me! We took some final pictures and said our thank you's (Vanaka Vakalevu, thank you very much) and drove away with those same twenty eyes watching after us!
Next we met up with George and Patti for a Sunday lovo lunch.
Lovo
A traditional Fijian feast that is prepared in an earth oven (lovo) over hot rocks. The food is wrapped in banana leaves, placed in the oven, then covered with leaves and soil giving it a smoky flavor.
During lunch we learned to play a pool like game called Snooker. The game itself is fun, but it is even more entertaining to play with the local kids (who kick-ass at it). On the 31st I joined George and Patti for another lunch out (Chris was working on our outboard again, and Andy and Riley had departed on the 30th). We had George and Patti out to the boat again on Saturday (June 4th), this time for a relaxing day anchored away from town (more on this below, under Weekend Away). On Monday, itching to play some more Snooker, we brought Doodlebug along and joined George and Patti at the Planter's Club for too many beers and two of the longest games in snooker history (since we all sucked and didn't have any locals playing to help speed the game along).
Finally, on Wednesday June 8th, we joined up for one last dinner out. George and Patti would be flying out on the 9th. We had an excellent Lovo dinner at a local restaurant and then bid each other farewell (as it turns out they were delayed due to rain, so we actually some them one more time).
I am so happy that George and Patti came out. They really showed us a great time and we immensely enjoyed their company. Although, they did also make me a bit homesick with all our conversations about family and with George's resemblance to my brother! We are also grateful that they introduced us to so many locals - as it really makes for a better island experience.
Vacations vs. Cruising
A number of people have asked us how it was having two extra people on board for almost a month. One of the things that stands out to us, and that we always end up discussing, as well as something that we hadn't really thought about ahead of time, is the difference between vacationers and cruisers.
As vacationers, Andy and Riley only had 26 days. If you take away the waiting time in NZ and the passage, they were left with twelve days in Fiji. As with most people on vacation, they wanted to utilize every minute of that time. Andy would be up at the crack of dawn and off to walk around. By 9(am) he'd be back on Billabong urging Riley to get ready so they could get off the boat. They might go snorkeling, might walk around the island just off our stern, or might walk about town -- really anything was fine as long as they got off the boat. There was even a night or two where Andy went in to check out the "night life".
This constant flurry of activity is quite different from a cruiser's lifestyle. Chris and I enjoy our lazy mornings over coffee. And while we like adventure and exploring, relaxing (or doing nothing one might say) is just as fun! There might be days when we feel no need or desire to leave the boat at all. Sure, Chris and I have more time, so we don't have to rush around trying to see everything at once. But what I've discovered about ourselves as well as other cruisers is that when we do run short of time, we tend to opt to skip stuff (or places) rather than up our pace. After a month with Andy and Riley, I have realized (again), how lucky we are to have learned to live this way. One of the things I'm most worried about on our return home (still a few years off) is being thrown back into a go-go-go lifestyle. I worry that I'll forget how to sit back, relax and enjoy my surroundings. And in doing that I worry that I'll lose all those little enjoyments of life that are so easy to overlook. I hope that we'll be able to hang on to a slower pace and remember the enjoyment we found from "quiet time" or a good book.
People might read our journals and think how cool it is that we've snorkeled with whales, dove with sharks, hiked a volcano, bonded with stingrays, and so on, while I agree, I would also add that one of the greatest things about cruising is learning to slow down, relax, and potentially do nothing! I would encourage everyone to give it a try, and the next time you go on vacation take some time to just sit around, read, or let your mind wonder. Listen to sounds around you, take a deep breathe and truly RELAX!
Weekend Getaway
After two loud weekends in the bay, we decided that should we be around for another weekend we would get away. So come Friday (June 3rd), we motored out to "split rock point" (about 5nm or 1 hour away). The only downside to the point is that we had to anchor in 50-60 feet of water, not ideal, but manageable. There were a few interesting moments anchoring, especially when I misunderstood a few of Chris's hand signals. Here I was so proud because I [thought] was backing down in the EXACT direction Chris had asked me to ... turns out he had said/signaled NOT to go in THAT direction! OOPS! After setting the hook I could feel my entire being relax. There is something so serene about the stillness when anchored far away from any towns. I took a quick dip, checking our anchor and peering in on a few fish. There were some microscopic jelly fish in the water and it didn't take long for their small stings to becoming annoying.
That evening we rowed over to Doodlebug for sundowners. We had briefly met Annette and Ed the previous year in the Marquesas, but had not had the opportunity to get to know them. We had a fantastic time, staying up way past my bed time (till 11:30pm if you can believe that!). We learned about Ed's cruiser categories;
The next day George and Patti drove out to the point and we dinghied them to Billabong. As we sat around enjoying the sun and light breeze, they asked us what we would be doing if they weren't there. "This is it" we said, "relaxing!". Maybe a dip in the ocean if we got hot, or potentially a quick chore if something came to mind.
For lunch I whipped up some Philly Rolls (sushi), partly because I had a craving and the ingredients, and partly, I'll admit, because as Chris says, "I wanted to show off"! They were both quite impressed that our boat was so well stocked and that we would indulge on sushi!
After George and Patti left, Chris and I had a quiet and early night. On Sunday Doodlebug picked us up and we went to "Split Rock" for some fantastic snorkeling (this is the spot Andy and Riley visited frequently during their stay). Even in the poor lighting (clouds were rolling in) I was amazed at the varying colors of the soft corals. The fish were extremely friendly, swarming around and even going after our held out fingers hoping for food! We spent the rest of the day relaxing and enjoyed another beautiful sunset.
On Monday (June 6th) we headed back into town - it was time to start making preparations to leave .. if only we could get the weather to cooperate!
by KT
| SavuSavu, Fiji |
Read about Passage here
Savusavu and Around
Savusavu is Vanua Levu's second largest town (the 2000 issue of South Pacific Lonely Planet reported a population of 2000). The population is predominantly Fijian and Indian. It's one main street has a number of shops including a huge open market (fresh veggies and fruit), more than one grocery store (although all smaller than those in the states), clothing and tourist shops, and even a number of restaurants. There are buses, taxis, and lots of cars. For Chris and I it actually felt large and hectic!
As we experienced across the South Pacific, the people are wonderful. BULA! BULA! (Hello! Hello!). Everyone yells as we walk along the main street. Their huge smiles are catching and you can't help but enthusiastically reply back, BULA!
Andy and Riley had 12 days before their return flight and were itching to get going. Chris and I like to unwind and relax after a passage, plus there are usually a number of maintenance tasks that have to be completed. So for the next few days Andy and Riley went off to explore the town, snorkel, and just generally do anything that would get them off the boat while Chris and I went to "work". It didn't help that on our first day there the outboard engine died and Chris found "sludge" in our diesel fuel (of the main boat engine). Nor did the constant falling ash from nearby copra fires make getting (or keeping) the boat clean easy.
Sevusevu: A welcome ceremony that plays an important role in Fijian culture. Upon arrival into a village the visitor offers a gift of Yaqona (kava) to the village chief. They then pound it up, mix it with water and you all drink it together. Basically you are asking permission to stay and visit and the chief, therefore the entire village, is welcoming you in.It wasn't all work though, on Thursday night we attended a cruiser's seminar put on by Curly of CurLiz Cruising. Having moved to Fiji (with his wife Liz) from New Zealand some 15 years ago, Curly now provides a number of useful services to cruisers. The seminar covered the logistics of cruising in Fiji, everything from the paperwork that must be completed, to proper etiquette in the villages, and how to do a Sevusevu. Following the seminar we joined a number or cruisers for a dinner out. This was great for Chris and I because for the first time in months we didn't know a single boat in the bay!
Curly later put on another great seminar on "Where to cruise in Fiji". He along with other long time Fiji cruisers reviewed charts and locations. Talked about their favorite places and places they would skip. It was our first look at just how much fun Fiji was going to be!
Roddick Reunion
Halfway into last year's season I learned that a cousin of mine (to be exact my Grandpa's Cousin's son) has a house in Fiji. As Fiji wasn't in last year's plans we weren't able to hook up. When I emailed them before leaving New Zealand, they decided to fly out and try to meet up with us. As it turns out their house is just 15-20 minutes outside Savusavu. Our timing was perfect, George (my cousin) and his wife Patti arrived on the 19th. Chris and I met them for lunch on the 20th (Andy and Riley had opted to go snorkeling). The last time I had seen George I was somewhere between 10 and 13, so I really didn't remember him much. This made me a bit nervous - just because we're family didn't mean we would "gel". But it was all for not because George and Patti are Great! We had a fantastic lunch filled with non-stop conversation. Afterwards Patti introduced us to her favorite Market vendors, Kamla and Raj. We made plans to visit their house the following day and discussed all sorts of other potential things to do around the island. George and Patti would be in Fiji until June 9th and during their stay they showed us some fantastic parts of Vanua Levu.
On Saturday (21st) we all (Andy and Riley included) spent a day enjoying their amazing views while soaking in their horizon pool. Chris and I loved their house and location so much that we are now convinced that somehow, someway we MUST buy land here!
On the 23rd we had George and Patti over to the boat for appetizers and sunset drinks. It started with a good laugh, when George fell off the dinghy (into the water) while climbing aboard, but somehow in an amazing acrobatic maneuver, managed to save his video camera. I was relieved to find he was very good humored about it!
Two nights later Chris and I were going to join George and Patti at a local carnival, but due to rain opted for dinner out instead (Andy and Riley had decided to take the ferry over to Taveuni for a two night adventure). Chris and I spent the following night up at their house where we enjoyed local Indian cuisine (prepared by their "house girl", Rada), endless amounts of power (we watched a movie), and a real shower! The next day we went off-roading (dusty, unpaved roads) into some remote locations in search of "the waterfall" that I had read about. Luckily George and Patti had asked around and gotten some general directions ... although had two small boys not guided us in, we would've probably walked aimlessly for hours!
On Saturday (now May 28th) they took the four of us (Andy and Riley were back from Taveuni) to one of the nearby villages. The visit was especially unique to Andy and Riley who had only seen the larger towns of Fiji. The minute we pulled up twenty pairs of little eyes peered out at us from within houses and behind trees; the children are always the first to arrive. We waited for Satari to come out and meet us (George and Patti know her through friends of theirs and they had arranged our visit through her). She took us to her house, many of the children following curiously behind. Her husband, Joshua, is second man to the chief and he came to greet us shortly after. George and Patti had previously visited the village and had been welcomed through the Sevusevu ceremony. Because of this, they will always be welcomed, as was apparent when Joshua said, "Welcome Home" to them. Although no Sevusevu was required, we still presented a gift of Yuqona roots (Kava) along with rice and sugar. Joshua walked us around the village. While villagers don't have much in material possessions, they have a lot of pride and big hearts. The villages are clean and well groomed, and everywhere we walked people came out to say hello, shake our hands, or offer us food. After our tour we took a refreshing swim in the river. This type of activity is always a favorite of ours, because we get to play with the children. This time it was cannon balls, king of the raft, and tossing kids through the air. As always their smiles and laughter were infectious. After the swim, Satari treated us to some kind of cooked, smoky flavored banana dish. I swear I really really tried to like it, but between the slimy texture and the strong flavor, every bite I took triggered a gag reflection. I was determined to eat it, I wouldn't dare waste something as important as food, but was luckily saved by Chris who after seeing the desperation in my eyes finished mine for me! We took some final pictures and said our thank you's (Vanaka Vakalevu, thank you very much) and drove away with those same twenty eyes watching after us!
Next we met up with George and Patti for a Sunday lovo lunch.
Lovo
A traditional Fijian feast that is prepared in an earth oven (lovo) over hot rocks. The food is wrapped in banana leaves, placed in the oven, then covered with leaves and soil giving it a smoky flavor.
During lunch we learned to play a pool like game called Snooker. The game itself is fun, but it is even more entertaining to play with the local kids (who kick-ass at it). On the 31st I joined George and Patti for another lunch out (Chris was working on our outboard again, and Andy and Riley had departed on the 30th). We had George and Patti out to the boat again on Saturday (June 4th), this time for a relaxing day anchored away from town (more on this below, under Weekend Away). On Monday, itching to play some more Snooker, we brought Doodlebug along and joined George and Patti at the Planter's Club for too many beers and two of the longest games in snooker history (since we all sucked and didn't have any locals playing to help speed the game along).
Finally, on Wednesday June 8th, we joined up for one last dinner out. George and Patti would be flying out on the 9th. We had an excellent Lovo dinner at a local restaurant and then bid each other farewell (as it turns out they were delayed due to rain, so we actually some them one more time).
I am so happy that George and Patti came out. They really showed us a great time and we immensely enjoyed their company. Although, they did also make me a bit homesick with all our conversations about family and with George's resemblance to my brother! We are also grateful that they introduced us to so many locals - as it really makes for a better island experience.
Vacations vs. Cruising
A number of people have asked us how it was having two extra people on board for almost a month. One of the things that stands out to us, and that we always end up discussing, as well as something that we hadn't really thought about ahead of time, is the difference between vacationers and cruisers.
As vacationers, Andy and Riley only had 26 days. If you take away the waiting time in NZ and the passage, they were left with twelve days in Fiji. As with most people on vacation, they wanted to utilize every minute of that time. Andy would be up at the crack of dawn and off to walk around. By 9(am) he'd be back on Billabong urging Riley to get ready so they could get off the boat. They might go snorkeling, might walk around the island just off our stern, or might walk about town -- really anything was fine as long as they got off the boat. There was even a night or two where Andy went in to check out the "night life".
This constant flurry of activity is quite different from a cruiser's lifestyle. Chris and I enjoy our lazy mornings over coffee. And while we like adventure and exploring, relaxing (or doing nothing one might say) is just as fun! There might be days when we feel no need or desire to leave the boat at all. Sure, Chris and I have more time, so we don't have to rush around trying to see everything at once. But what I've discovered about ourselves as well as other cruisers is that when we do run short of time, we tend to opt to skip stuff (or places) rather than up our pace. After a month with Andy and Riley, I have realized (again), how lucky we are to have learned to live this way. One of the things I'm most worried about on our return home (still a few years off) is being thrown back into a go-go-go lifestyle. I worry that I'll forget how to sit back, relax and enjoy my surroundings. And in doing that I worry that I'll lose all those little enjoyments of life that are so easy to overlook. I hope that we'll be able to hang on to a slower pace and remember the enjoyment we found from "quiet time" or a good book.
People might read our journals and think how cool it is that we've snorkeled with whales, dove with sharks, hiked a volcano, bonded with stingrays, and so on, while I agree, I would also add that one of the greatest things about cruising is learning to slow down, relax, and potentially do nothing! I would encourage everyone to give it a try, and the next time you go on vacation take some time to just sit around, read, or let your mind wonder. Listen to sounds around you, take a deep breathe and truly RELAX!
Weekend Getaway
After two loud weekends in the bay, we decided that should we be around for another weekend we would get away. So come Friday (June 3rd), we motored out to "split rock point" (about 5nm or 1 hour away). The only downside to the point is that we had to anchor in 50-60 feet of water, not ideal, but manageable. There were a few interesting moments anchoring, especially when I misunderstood a few of Chris's hand signals. Here I was so proud because I [thought] was backing down in the EXACT direction Chris had asked me to ... turns out he had said/signaled NOT to go in THAT direction! OOPS! After setting the hook I could feel my entire being relax. There is something so serene about the stillness when anchored far away from any towns. I took a quick dip, checking our anchor and peering in on a few fish. There were some microscopic jelly fish in the water and it didn't take long for their small stings to becoming annoying.
That evening we rowed over to Doodlebug for sundowners. We had briefly met Annette and Ed the previous year in the Marquesas, but had not had the opportunity to get to know them. We had a fantastic time, staying up way past my bed time (till 11:30pm if you can believe that!). We learned about Ed's cruiser categories;
- Category1: Dirt poor cruising, barely making it by, working as they cruise.
- Category2: Taking a sabbatical from work. They will someday have to return to land and jobs.
- Category3: Retired. Hopefully they will never have to return to work or land again!
The next day George and Patti drove out to the point and we dinghied them to Billabong. As we sat around enjoying the sun and light breeze, they asked us what we would be doing if they weren't there. "This is it" we said, "relaxing!". Maybe a dip in the ocean if we got hot, or potentially a quick chore if something came to mind.
For lunch I whipped up some Philly Rolls (sushi), partly because I had a craving and the ingredients, and partly, I'll admit, because as Chris says, "I wanted to show off"! They were both quite impressed that our boat was so well stocked and that we would indulge on sushi!
After George and Patti left, Chris and I had a quiet and early night. On Sunday Doodlebug picked us up and we went to "Split Rock" for some fantastic snorkeling (this is the spot Andy and Riley visited frequently during their stay). Even in the poor lighting (clouds were rolling in) I was amazed at the varying colors of the soft corals. The fish were extremely friendly, swarming around and even going after our held out fingers hoping for food! We spent the rest of the day relaxing and enjoyed another beautiful sunset.
On Monday (June 6th) we headed back into town - it was time to start making preparations to leave .. if only we could get the weather to cooperate!
Just getting into blogs
NEW!!! We are just now getting into Blogs ... Blogs
will allow us to easily add quick updates. We'll
still keep up our regular website, but this should
allow us to keep everyone posted without waiting
months in between updates! And we can do it from Sea!
Passage New Zealand to Fiji
10 days - 1200 Nautical Miles
After six months on land I wasn't so sure what to expect from our upcoming passage to Fiji. Would we get right back into the swing of things or would it take us days / weeks to adjust? I was also a little apprehensive about our next year of cruising. New Zealand had spoiled us; cheap phones, fast internet, endless grocery stores, and let's not forget not a single day of sea sickness! All of this in one of the most spectacular places I've ever been. On the other hand I was ready to go. I was tired of traffic, of "crowds" (any population over 100 now constitutes as a crowd!), and especially of spending so much money. I was ready to relax again, swaying in a tropical breeze reading endless books.
Ready or not, we departed Opua, New Zealand on Sunday May 8th. This passage would be different for us in that we also had two "crew" aboard. Chris's cousin Andy and Andy's 14 year old daughter, Riley, had joined us from Alaska. We hadn't yet cruised with other people on board and weren't sure how "small" the boat would get. We headed out of the Bay of Islands with two boats following (MagMell and Stardust) and a couple more to leave the next day (Ascension and Freebird). It's always comforting to know we wouldn't be out there alone!
While the passage ended up being pretty unremarkable, there were a few days of nervousness at the beginning when Chris spotted a huge "bomb" on the weather fax to the East of us (Bomb = cyclone = high wind and large waves = YIKES). It was far enough away that we were currently quite safe, but we had to keep a close eye to ensure it didn't move our way. It also meant that we didn't make much Easting in our first days out as we didn't want to risk heading anywhere in the vicinity of the storm. By Friday we had safely cleared it and could head East (not to mention breathe easier). Of course by then the wind wasn't fully cooperating, making it a struggle to get East.
This was Andy and Riley's first sailing ocean passage. They handled it great. Boredom being their biggest hurtle. Riley would play hour upon hour of electronic Yahtzee while Andy would spend time staring out at the vast Ocean while listening to Music. I loved it when Andy said to Riley, "Don't you want to stand up and look around?" She replied, "Why? It's just water!!!". I couldn't agree more!
It was a bit strange for Chris and I as we tried to get into the cruising groove with two extra people aboard. Cruising with four defiantly has its bonuses as well as inconveniences. Andy was a superb helper; cooking, doing dishes, and providing us with an additional night watcher. We had added entertainment with Yahtzee tournaments and Wheel of Fortune championships. I'll admit though, that I missed the cruising rhythms and space of just the two of us. Also I felt like Chris and I became huge nags - as so many things on the boat had to be done a certain way. I hated constantly pestering and nagging about one thing or another - and I'm sure it got old with Andy and Riley as well (although they handled it like stars!). In total it all worked out well and we enjoyed their company and were enjoying the added entertainment of viewing cruising through their eyes!
About three to four days out of Savusavu it started to warm up. Ahh yes, to be back in the tropics - foul weather gear traded for shorts, beanie caps swapped for sun hats ... heading back to paradise.
About two days out Chris and I started talking about potentially having to slow the boat down. This was a bit of a shock to Andy and Riley, who after 8 days on a bumpy sailboat were ready for land. "What do you mean you're going to slow down?" Andy asked. We tried to explain that if it didn't look like we could make it during daylight then we have to slow down so that we arrive the following morning. As it turned out we did end up reducing sail to slow the boat. Andy still wasn't convinced, trying to persuade us that speed was better. But we couldn't have made it in daylight on the 17th, so our best option was to slow and try to time it for a morning arrival on the 18th. As Murphy's Law would go - just as we attempt to slow, the winds continued to rise, and we couldn't get the boat to go slow enough! So, around midnight we had to heave-to outside the islands and wait for morning. Because the winds had picked up so had the swell - making it an uncomfortable night as the boat rolled side to side in the swell and the main sail slammed and banged echoing through the entire boat. In the morning I asked Andy, " So, after last night don't you wish we had slowed down earlier so we wouldn't have had to heave-to?". He still wouldn't give in - he preferred making speed for the guarantee that land would be there when the sun rose!
It was a beautiful sail into the bay as we looked up to green hillsides scattered with palm trees. We had to practically drag Riley on deck (from bed) to take in the sights. I think that early in the morning she wasn't impressed!
At 8:30am on Wednesday, May 18th (1200 nautical miles later), we picked up a mooring ball in Savusavu Bay, immensely enjoying the now steady boat. Chris and I got a great chuckle when Riley said "Is that the WHOLE town?" as we all stood on deck peering at the 4 or 5 buildings on the single road across the bay. Savusavu is one of the bigger towns Chris and I have been to during our 1-1/2 years of cruising!!!
| Route from NZ to SavuSavu Fiji |
After six months on land I wasn't so sure what to expect from our upcoming passage to Fiji. Would we get right back into the swing of things or would it take us days / weeks to adjust? I was also a little apprehensive about our next year of cruising. New Zealand had spoiled us; cheap phones, fast internet, endless grocery stores, and let's not forget not a single day of sea sickness! All of this in one of the most spectacular places I've ever been. On the other hand I was ready to go. I was tired of traffic, of "crowds" (any population over 100 now constitutes as a crowd!), and especially of spending so much money. I was ready to relax again, swaying in a tropical breeze reading endless books.
Ready or not, we departed Opua, New Zealand on Sunday May 8th. This passage would be different for us in that we also had two "crew" aboard. Chris's cousin Andy and Andy's 14 year old daughter, Riley, had joined us from Alaska. We hadn't yet cruised with other people on board and weren't sure how "small" the boat would get. We headed out of the Bay of Islands with two boats following (MagMell and Stardust) and a couple more to leave the next day (Ascension and Freebird). It's always comforting to know we wouldn't be out there alone!
While the passage ended up being pretty unremarkable, there were a few days of nervousness at the beginning when Chris spotted a huge "bomb" on the weather fax to the East of us (Bomb = cyclone = high wind and large waves = YIKES). It was far enough away that we were currently quite safe, but we had to keep a close eye to ensure it didn't move our way. It also meant that we didn't make much Easting in our first days out as we didn't want to risk heading anywhere in the vicinity of the storm. By Friday we had safely cleared it and could head East (not to mention breathe easier). Of course by then the wind wasn't fully cooperating, making it a struggle to get East.
This was Andy and Riley's first sailing ocean passage. They handled it great. Boredom being their biggest hurtle. Riley would play hour upon hour of electronic Yahtzee while Andy would spend time staring out at the vast Ocean while listening to Music. I loved it when Andy said to Riley, "Don't you want to stand up and look around?" She replied, "Why? It's just water!!!". I couldn't agree more!
It was a bit strange for Chris and I as we tried to get into the cruising groove with two extra people aboard. Cruising with four defiantly has its bonuses as well as inconveniences. Andy was a superb helper; cooking, doing dishes, and providing us with an additional night watcher. We had added entertainment with Yahtzee tournaments and Wheel of Fortune championships. I'll admit though, that I missed the cruising rhythms and space of just the two of us. Also I felt like Chris and I became huge nags - as so many things on the boat had to be done a certain way. I hated constantly pestering and nagging about one thing or another - and I'm sure it got old with Andy and Riley as well (although they handled it like stars!). In total it all worked out well and we enjoyed their company and were enjoying the added entertainment of viewing cruising through their eyes!
Hove-to:As usual we had radio contact with the other vessels making the passage. We were all quite near though we never saw another boat. The other vessels were making landfall in Suva (on Vita Levu), while we were heading to Savusavu (on Vanua Levu). We had a few slow days; slow enough that Andy asked, "At what point do you start the engine?". Ha Ha. Basically, we have to be just about standing still to motor (or trying to avoid a weather system). At one point Andy even offered to pay for the diesel if we would just motor! They were able to take advantage of the light winds when we hove-to and Andy and Riley jumped over board for a swim and bath.
Basically, setting the sails and rudder such that the boat is not making way.
About three to four days out of Savusavu it started to warm up. Ahh yes, to be back in the tropics - foul weather gear traded for shorts, beanie caps swapped for sun hats ... heading back to paradise.
About two days out Chris and I started talking about potentially having to slow the boat down. This was a bit of a shock to Andy and Riley, who after 8 days on a bumpy sailboat were ready for land. "What do you mean you're going to slow down?" Andy asked. We tried to explain that if it didn't look like we could make it during daylight then we have to slow down so that we arrive the following morning. As it turned out we did end up reducing sail to slow the boat. Andy still wasn't convinced, trying to persuade us that speed was better. But we couldn't have made it in daylight on the 17th, so our best option was to slow and try to time it for a morning arrival on the 18th. As Murphy's Law would go - just as we attempt to slow, the winds continued to rise, and we couldn't get the boat to go slow enough! So, around midnight we had to heave-to outside the islands and wait for morning. Because the winds had picked up so had the swell - making it an uncomfortable night as the boat rolled side to side in the swell and the main sail slammed and banged echoing through the entire boat. In the morning I asked Andy, " So, after last night don't you wish we had slowed down earlier so we wouldn't have had to heave-to?". He still wouldn't give in - he preferred making speed for the guarantee that land would be there when the sun rose!
It was a beautiful sail into the bay as we looked up to green hillsides scattered with palm trees. We had to practically drag Riley on deck (from bed) to take in the sights. I think that early in the morning she wasn't impressed!
At 8:30am on Wednesday, May 18th (1200 nautical miles later), we picked up a mooring ball in Savusavu Bay, immensely enjoying the now steady boat. Chris and I got a great chuckle when Riley said "Is that the WHOLE town?" as we all stood on deck peering at the 4 or 5 buildings on the single road across the bay. Savusavu is one of the bigger towns Chris and I have been to during our 1-1/2 years of cruising!!!
Yes, it's PSH
Predictive Self-Healing (PSH):
Predictive Self-Healing is an innovative technology that automatically diagnoses, isolates, and recovers from many hardware and application faults. PSH allows business-critical applications and essential system services to continue uninterrupted in the event of software failures, major hardware component failures, and software configuration problems.
*aside* How many people actually go into this?
Predictive Self-Healing is an innovative technology that automatically diagnoses, isolates, and recovers from many hardware and application faults. PSH allows business-critical applications and essential system services to continue uninterrupted in the event of software failures, major hardware component failures, and software configuration problems.
*aside* How many people actually go into this?
Art & Penny do New Zealand + Chris and I go South
covering South-East Coast, North Island and far South, South Island
2/26/05 - 3/24/05
by KT
Feb 26 - We headed to Auckland to hook up with our friend from Ventura, Phil (who now resides in New Zealand). We all traveled down to Kadikadi where we enjoyed a great dinner with some of Phil's friends and a few folks Chris had met in his New Zealand journeys two years back.
Feb 27 - Back to Auckland, where we hook up with Robin and Duncan (Whisper) for beers and Sushi. Overnight stay at the now very familiar Auckland airport holiday park!
Feb 28 - Airport pickup of Art and Penny and then back to Whangarei. Our fourth Christmas this year as we receive canned chicken, "just add water" mixes, silicone bake wear, and much much more! Lunch, naps, catching up, dinner, and off to bed.
March 1 - And we're off! Back to Auckland to visit the Auckland Museum which was hosting a quilting show (Penny is a HUGE (and fantastic) quilter). Another amazing museum (Chris and I are so impressed with the New Zealand museums). Drive on to Hamilton.
March 2 - Visit to the Hamilton Gardens. In Cambridge we stop at a terrific quilting store and Chris discovers Vintage Aged Gouda (at the wine/cheese store next door) ... which quickly becomes one of our favorite cheeses. Continue driving towards the Rotorua / Lake Taupo area. We stayed in between the two at Golden Springs, where we soaked in thermal pools, KT learned to cross-stitch, and the boys (Chris and Art) cooked a great BBQ dinner.
March 3 - Hike and Boat ride in the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Take SH5 out to Napier (East Cost). Enjoy Pizza and Tapas for dinner.
March 4 - Explore Napier (store browsing and internet use). Visit a couple wineries in Hastings, where we enjoy a wine and cheese lunch in the vineyard! Drive on to Carterton, where Art and Penny stay in a terrific B&B and Chris and I camp in the B&B's yard!!!
March 5 - Visit the street fair in Martinborough (which ends up being HUGE).
March 6 - Drive to Wellington. A quick hour in the Te Papa Museum before catching the ferry over to Picton. Art and Penny treat us to a hotel stay (hooray real beds)
March 7 - Meet up with Ralph and Donna (Ocean Girl) for coffee before heading to Nelson. (Another treat from Art and Penny as they put us up with them in the B&B)
March 8 - After breakfast with Art & Penny, we say goodbye. Art & Penny are joining a group of eight or so on a 3 week day-hiking tour. We suspect we'll see them here and there along the way and then again in Christchurch before they depart. Chris & I head South, planning on 6 to 8 hours of driving in order to get far South where we will begin our leisurely tour. The Billavan has other ideas as it stutters & hiccups along. Eventually we end up backtracking about 100 clicks (km) to Christchurch where we hope to get the car fixed.
March 9 - A visit to the Mitsubishi dealer, who sends us to their partner shop, who can't see us until the 10th. We spend the day walking around Christchurch, visiting the art center, Canterbury Museum, and Botanic Gardens.
March 10 - Drop the car off at the mechanic (the car is of course now running perfect). Chris runs into another guy who has the exact same car, and is apparently having a similar problem! More walking around Christchurch, browsing sports shops, while Chris continues to check in on the car. Turns out they find NOTHING wrong (of course). We decide to just go anyway, what the heck have we got to lose? Leave late afternoon and head South ... right into a cold front, and man is it COLD! We even see the wind change directions - man is it eerie, I was ready for a twister to start up right then and there! End our travels at a holiday park in Timaru.
March 11 - Continue south along the coast, stopping in Moeraki to check out the touristy Moeraki boulders. Drive out Shag Point (mostly because of its name), where we spot two yellow-eyed penguins in the far far distance (not moving because they are molting). Continue on to Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. Sneak a peak at the Larnach Castle (as we are too cheap to actually pay to go inside) and then head to Sandfly Beach for penguin watching. Spend about 2-3 hours in the Penguin hide ... but only spot one penguin (who, like the others, isn't moving, or fun at all to watch). As it is raining and we forgot our rain jackets in the car we finally give up :( Stay the night in Dunedin.
March 12 - Tunnel Beach Walk. Drive the Southern Scenic Route (through the Catlins). Stop at Nugget Point (check out the playing sea lions & lighthouse), Owaka Quilt Store, Purakaunui Waterfall, and finally Curio Bay. Curio bay is host to the fossil/petrified forest. Next, it's up to the Penguin hide and more waiting ... man is it COLD! Finally after about 2 hours ONE yellow-eyed penguin comes in (from fishing). And HOORAY he walks, waddles, jumps, and looks around, before disappearing into his nest!
March 13 - Drive out to Waipapa Point (another lighthouse and more sea lions). About five of us are on the beach taking photos of two sea lions playing, when one of the big guys decides he is territorial and CHASES (yes chases, and damn he moves fast) us!!! Car is acting up, but we finally make it to Te Anau (where we plan to park it for 4 days or so).
March 14 - Although the day starts with a low hanging thick realm of fog, by 11am it is crystal clear blue. We relax about Te Anau; taking pictures of the lake, visiting the wildlife (bird) sanctuary, doing a bit of laundry, and just enjoying the fantastic weather.
March 15 - Bike and Cruise Milford Sound. We end up being the only two people on this tour, which is terrific. We are picked up in Te Anau and driven up Milford Road to Hummer Tunnel. On the other side of the tunnel we hop on the bikes and ride ALL DOWNHILL into Milford, where we jump on a small cruise boat and head out for a 2 hour Milford Sound Cruise. Our guide picks us up and drives us back up to the Hummer Tunnel, and this time we ride ALL DOWNHILL down the other side! After lunch next to turquoise rapids of a river, we are driven back to Te Anau, making lots of photograph stops, including Mirror Lake and a Nature Walk through a forest of greens like we've never seen. We also end up running into Doug & Angela (Solstice) at the holiday park!
March 16 - Kayaking Doubtful Sound. Another outstanding tour. We are picked up in Te Anau, and along with 6 other people, taken on a 45 minute boat ride across Lake Manapouri. Next a short scenic bus ride over to another boat in Doubtful Sounds. The boat takes us deep into the Fiord (yes both Milford and Doubtful are really Fiords and not Sounds... they were improperly named a long time again). We hop into kayaks and enjoy a beautiful, flat, scenic day of kayaking Doubtful. We get to see it all again as we make our way back to Te Anau ... we just never get tired of the views, seem they change hourly!!!
March 17 - On to Wanaka. Art and Penny's group are also in Wanaka, so we hook up with them later in the afternoon and enjoy a great dinner with their group.
March 18 - Diamond Lake Track (hike) in Wanaka, with Art & Penny (and their group). This hike takes us up, up, & up, providing 360° views over Lake Wanaka and into Mount Aspiring National Park. We enjoy another terrific dinner with the group and some hot tubbing with Art & Penny.
March 19 - We're back on our own again (Art and Penny have headed towards Queenstown). We hitchhike into Mount Aspiring National Park, and go on one of our best hikes yet ... Rob Roy Valley. Even with the overcast skies and light rains we are thoroughly impressed with this tramp. We're lucky enough to find an easy ride back to our holiday park, and therefore treat ourselves to dinner out (with the money we saved by not having to pay for the shuttle into the Park!).
March 20 - A visit to Wanaka's Puzzling World in the morning and then on to Mount Cook. It's a holiday park with a view as we look down a valley directly at the towering Mount Cook. And what a treat, not only do the clouds lift enough for us to see the top, but the sunset warms the sky with changing shades of pinks and reds.
March 21 - We wanted to do the Hooker Valley Track (at Mount Cook), but the low clouds covered Mount Cook, and we figured it would be pointless if we couldn't see the views. Plus we had departed Wanaka a day early, so we were ahead of schedule. Instead we relaxed around the holiday park.
March 22 - Still some clouds in the sky, but we figured it was as good as it was going to get, so we headed off to do the Hooker Valley Track. We knew that Art and Penny (and group) would also be doing this hike today, but we had no idea what time they would start. Just at the entrance to the track, Chris looked out and saw their two distinct white vans making there way up the Mount Cook road ... we decided to wait and gave Art and Penny a pleasant surprise as we stood their waving when they pulled up. After the hike we departed ways again, Chris and I heading towards Christchurch. We hadn't decided how far we'd drive, but the van ended up running great, so we made it all the way into Christchurch.
March 23 - We had an appointment at the mechanic later in the afternoon, so we entertained ourselves with a movie at New Zealand's largest movie screen before heading over to the hotel where we were meeting Art and Penny. After our hellos, Chris took the car to the mechanic, Art and Penny went out to explore the museum and gardens, and I kicked back with my computer and the T.V.! Of course the car was running great (now that we were somewhere we could actually get it fixed), so the mechanic couldn't do anything!!!
March 24 - Art, Penny, Chris and I shuttled out to Akaroa for "swimming with the dolphins". While we spotted a few (cute little guys, the Hector dolphin is the smallest dolphin), we didn't get a chance to get real close or interact with them ... it was a fun adventure none-the-less!
March 25 - Art and Penny were off ... heading home. After all our goodbyes Chris and I headed towards Picton. Although we made a few stops, we just kept on driving, actually making it to Picton that night, and taking a night ferry over to Wellington.
March 26 - We started making our way back 'home'. We hadn't planned on driving so much in one day, but the van was more or less running okay, and it was raining so we weren't real enthusiastic to get out of the car ... we ended up making it all the way to Auckland ... where we stayed at our "favorite" holiday park.
March 27 - Easter Sunday! We called up Robin and Duncan and met them at their boat, Whisper. We were lucky enough to find a cafe open on a holiday Sunday where we caught up over breakfast. We hung out with Robin and Duncan all day and ended up staying over on Whisper. We were glad to spend the time with them as they will be staying in New Zealand this next year instead of moving on (with us) ... so we'll miss them!
March 28 - Back to Whangarei. Hooray, home again! After all this time in the van, the boat felt like a mansion!
Beyond - Since then we have been getting the boat ready ... double checking systems, washing the bottom, provisioning, etc etc etc. We've also taken time-out for BBQ's with our friends, and for a few goodbyes (to those that aren't following the same track as Chris and I).
2/26/05 - 3/24/05
by KT
Feb 26 - We headed to Auckland to hook up with our friend from Ventura, Phil (who now resides in New Zealand). We all traveled down to Kadikadi where we enjoyed a great dinner with some of Phil's friends and a few folks Chris had met in his New Zealand journeys two years back.
Feb 27 - Back to Auckland, where we hook up with Robin and Duncan (Whisper) for beers and Sushi. Overnight stay at the now very familiar Auckland airport holiday park!
Feb 28 - Airport pickup of Art and Penny and then back to Whangarei. Our fourth Christmas this year as we receive canned chicken, "just add water" mixes, silicone bake wear, and much much more! Lunch, naps, catching up, dinner, and off to bed.
March 1 - And we're off! Back to Auckland to visit the Auckland Museum which was hosting a quilting show (Penny is a HUGE (and fantastic) quilter). Another amazing museum (Chris and I are so impressed with the New Zealand museums). Drive on to Hamilton.
March 2 - Visit to the Hamilton Gardens. In Cambridge we stop at a terrific quilting store and Chris discovers Vintage Aged Gouda (at the wine/cheese store next door) ... which quickly becomes one of our favorite cheeses. Continue driving towards the Rotorua / Lake Taupo area. We stayed in between the two at Golden Springs, where we soaked in thermal pools, KT learned to cross-stitch, and the boys (Chris and Art) cooked a great BBQ dinner.
March 3 - Hike and Boat ride in the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Take SH5 out to Napier (East Cost). Enjoy Pizza and Tapas for dinner.
March 4 - Explore Napier (store browsing and internet use). Visit a couple wineries in Hastings, where we enjoy a wine and cheese lunch in the vineyard! Drive on to Carterton, where Art and Penny stay in a terrific B&B and Chris and I camp in the B&B's yard!!!
March 5 - Visit the street fair in Martinborough (which ends up being HUGE).
March 6 - Drive to Wellington. A quick hour in the Te Papa Museum before catching the ferry over to Picton. Art and Penny treat us to a hotel stay (hooray real beds)
March 7 - Meet up with Ralph and Donna (Ocean Girl) for coffee before heading to Nelson. (Another treat from Art and Penny as they put us up with them in the B&B)
March 8 - After breakfast with Art & Penny, we say goodbye. Art & Penny are joining a group of eight or so on a 3 week day-hiking tour. We suspect we'll see them here and there along the way and then again in Christchurch before they depart. Chris & I head South, planning on 6 to 8 hours of driving in order to get far South where we will begin our leisurely tour. The Billavan has other ideas as it stutters & hiccups along. Eventually we end up backtracking about 100 clicks (km) to Christchurch where we hope to get the car fixed.
March 9 - A visit to the Mitsubishi dealer, who sends us to their partner shop, who can't see us until the 10th. We spend the day walking around Christchurch, visiting the art center, Canterbury Museum, and Botanic Gardens.
March 10 - Drop the car off at the mechanic (the car is of course now running perfect). Chris runs into another guy who has the exact same car, and is apparently having a similar problem! More walking around Christchurch, browsing sports shops, while Chris continues to check in on the car. Turns out they find NOTHING wrong (of course). We decide to just go anyway, what the heck have we got to lose? Leave late afternoon and head South ... right into a cold front, and man is it COLD! We even see the wind change directions - man is it eerie, I was ready for a twister to start up right then and there! End our travels at a holiday park in Timaru.
March 11 - Continue south along the coast, stopping in Moeraki to check out the touristy Moeraki boulders. Drive out Shag Point (mostly because of its name), where we spot two yellow-eyed penguins in the far far distance (not moving because they are molting). Continue on to Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula. Sneak a peak at the Larnach Castle (as we are too cheap to actually pay to go inside) and then head to Sandfly Beach for penguin watching. Spend about 2-3 hours in the Penguin hide ... but only spot one penguin (who, like the others, isn't moving, or fun at all to watch). As it is raining and we forgot our rain jackets in the car we finally give up :( Stay the night in Dunedin.
March 12 - Tunnel Beach Walk. Drive the Southern Scenic Route (through the Catlins). Stop at Nugget Point (check out the playing sea lions & lighthouse), Owaka Quilt Store, Purakaunui Waterfall, and finally Curio Bay. Curio bay is host to the fossil/petrified forest. Next, it's up to the Penguin hide and more waiting ... man is it COLD! Finally after about 2 hours ONE yellow-eyed penguin comes in (from fishing). And HOORAY he walks, waddles, jumps, and looks around, before disappearing into his nest!
March 13 - Drive out to Waipapa Point (another lighthouse and more sea lions). About five of us are on the beach taking photos of two sea lions playing, when one of the big guys decides he is territorial and CHASES (yes chases, and damn he moves fast) us!!! Car is acting up, but we finally make it to Te Anau (where we plan to park it for 4 days or so).
March 14 - Although the day starts with a low hanging thick realm of fog, by 11am it is crystal clear blue. We relax about Te Anau; taking pictures of the lake, visiting the wildlife (bird) sanctuary, doing a bit of laundry, and just enjoying the fantastic weather.
March 15 - Bike and Cruise Milford Sound. We end up being the only two people on this tour, which is terrific. We are picked up in Te Anau and driven up Milford Road to Hummer Tunnel. On the other side of the tunnel we hop on the bikes and ride ALL DOWNHILL into Milford, where we jump on a small cruise boat and head out for a 2 hour Milford Sound Cruise. Our guide picks us up and drives us back up to the Hummer Tunnel, and this time we ride ALL DOWNHILL down the other side! After lunch next to turquoise rapids of a river, we are driven back to Te Anau, making lots of photograph stops, including Mirror Lake and a Nature Walk through a forest of greens like we've never seen. We also end up running into Doug & Angela (Solstice) at the holiday park!
March 16 - Kayaking Doubtful Sound. Another outstanding tour. We are picked up in Te Anau, and along with 6 other people, taken on a 45 minute boat ride across Lake Manapouri. Next a short scenic bus ride over to another boat in Doubtful Sounds. The boat takes us deep into the Fiord (yes both Milford and Doubtful are really Fiords and not Sounds... they were improperly named a long time again). We hop into kayaks and enjoy a beautiful, flat, scenic day of kayaking Doubtful. We get to see it all again as we make our way back to Te Anau ... we just never get tired of the views, seem they change hourly!!!
March 17 - On to Wanaka. Art and Penny's group are also in Wanaka, so we hook up with them later in the afternoon and enjoy a great dinner with their group.
March 18 - Diamond Lake Track (hike) in Wanaka, with Art & Penny (and their group). This hike takes us up, up, & up, providing 360° views over Lake Wanaka and into Mount Aspiring National Park. We enjoy another terrific dinner with the group and some hot tubbing with Art & Penny.
March 19 - We're back on our own again (Art and Penny have headed towards Queenstown). We hitchhike into Mount Aspiring National Park, and go on one of our best hikes yet ... Rob Roy Valley. Even with the overcast skies and light rains we are thoroughly impressed with this tramp. We're lucky enough to find an easy ride back to our holiday park, and therefore treat ourselves to dinner out (with the money we saved by not having to pay for the shuttle into the Park!).
March 20 - A visit to Wanaka's Puzzling World in the morning and then on to Mount Cook. It's a holiday park with a view as we look down a valley directly at the towering Mount Cook. And what a treat, not only do the clouds lift enough for us to see the top, but the sunset warms the sky with changing shades of pinks and reds.
March 21 - We wanted to do the Hooker Valley Track (at Mount Cook), but the low clouds covered Mount Cook, and we figured it would be pointless if we couldn't see the views. Plus we had departed Wanaka a day early, so we were ahead of schedule. Instead we relaxed around the holiday park.
March 22 - Still some clouds in the sky, but we figured it was as good as it was going to get, so we headed off to do the Hooker Valley Track. We knew that Art and Penny (and group) would also be doing this hike today, but we had no idea what time they would start. Just at the entrance to the track, Chris looked out and saw their two distinct white vans making there way up the Mount Cook road ... we decided to wait and gave Art and Penny a pleasant surprise as we stood their waving when they pulled up. After the hike we departed ways again, Chris and I heading towards Christchurch. We hadn't decided how far we'd drive, but the van ended up running great, so we made it all the way into Christchurch.
March 23 - We had an appointment at the mechanic later in the afternoon, so we entertained ourselves with a movie at New Zealand's largest movie screen before heading over to the hotel where we were meeting Art and Penny. After our hellos, Chris took the car to the mechanic, Art and Penny went out to explore the museum and gardens, and I kicked back with my computer and the T.V.! Of course the car was running great (now that we were somewhere we could actually get it fixed), so the mechanic couldn't do anything!!!
March 24 - Art, Penny, Chris and I shuttled out to Akaroa for "swimming with the dolphins". While we spotted a few (cute little guys, the Hector dolphin is the smallest dolphin), we didn't get a chance to get real close or interact with them ... it was a fun adventure none-the-less!
March 25 - Art and Penny were off ... heading home. After all our goodbyes Chris and I headed towards Picton. Although we made a few stops, we just kept on driving, actually making it to Picton that night, and taking a night ferry over to Wellington.
March 26 - We started making our way back 'home'. We hadn't planned on driving so much in one day, but the van was more or less running okay, and it was raining so we weren't real enthusiastic to get out of the car ... we ended up making it all the way to Auckland ... where we stayed at our "favorite" holiday park.
March 27 - Easter Sunday! We called up Robin and Duncan and met them at their boat, Whisper. We were lucky enough to find a cafe open on a holiday Sunday where we caught up over breakfast. We hung out with Robin and Duncan all day and ended up staying over on Whisper. We were glad to spend the time with them as they will be staying in New Zealand this next year instead of moving on (with us) ... so we'll miss them!
March 28 - Back to Whangarei. Hooray, home again! After all this time in the van, the boat felt like a mansion!
Beyond - Since then we have been getting the boat ready ... double checking systems, washing the bottom, provisioning, etc etc etc. We've also taken time-out for BBQ's with our friends, and for a few goodbyes (to those that aren't following the same track as Chris and I).
Exploring New Zealand with Sally & Mark
(covering Central & Southern North Island + Northern South Island)
1/22/05 - 2/14/05
by KT
W.I.P. JOURNAL: This journal piece is not quite yet complete. We are frantically trying to get all our pictures uploaded before we depart New Zealand, and therefore lose our cheap & fast internet connections. In order to accomplish that goal we are posting this journal with mostly just pictures, and sparse outline-like text ... we hope that we will be able to update the text at a later date.
Jan 22 - Birthday dinner for Chris with Island Sonata ... cake and pizza (YUM). Chris got kauri wood pieces (for carving) and new shorts (yipee).
Jan 24 - Early airport pickup. Drive to house Sally and Mark have via house swap, in Lake Taupo. Another 'lucky' car breakdown in Cambridge (where car breaks down just as we arrive at gas station with Auto Supplies store next door). House is HUGE! We have lunch in town and then enjoy fantastic sunset on the lake.
Jan 25 - Volcanic activity day: Craters of the moon walk. Thermal wonderland (amazing colors), and Kerosene Creek (where Chris impresses us with his knowledge about brain amoebas).
Jan 26 - Tonagriro National Park. 2 Hr waterfall hike (Taranaki Falls). Another terrific lake sunset.
Jan 27 - Tongariro Crossing (8hr tramp) ... terrific tramp, but very tiring. Rocky, volcanic, colorful lakes. (OH yeah, yet ANOTHER hose breaks on the car (and we are "lucky" again that it breaks just as we pull into the parking lot!).
Jan 28 - Finally a day of just Relaxing and lounging (hooray!). We watch T.V., Mark and Sally go for a walk on Hot Water Beach and KT does lots of Video editing (I'm making a video of our first year of cruising ... slow going as I don't really know how to use the software yet, we figure I have about 20 hours of my time into the first 6 minutes of video (yikes, at this rate the year 1 video should be done by the time we finish our 5th year of cruising!)
Jan 29 - Chris and Mark do some car work. We all visit Huka Falls (and go for a walk/hike along the river). We check out the Jet Boats and Prawn farm. Island Sonata shows up and spends the evening with us.
Jan 30 - House cleaning, laundry, and relaxing (we're preparing to head down to the South Island). Chris, Mark, & Sally walk down to the beach, where they watch some boat racing. I work on the video some more. Island Sonata spends another night.
Jan 31 - Drive SH1 from Lake Taupo to Lower Hutt (just outside Wellington) ... about 5 hour drive. Dinner with friends of Mark & Sally in Lower Hutt.
Feb 1 - Te Papa museum in Wellington (very very neat museum). It's an overcast/rainy day. Take the ferry over to Picton (South Island). Spend the night in Picton (with lovely train track overhead ... ugh).
Feb 2 - Water taxi/ferry out to Ship's Cove to do part of the Queen Charlotte track. 5hr tramp to Fernaux Lodge (where we catch the taxi/ferry back). Jump in the car for a scenic drive overlooking the Marlborough Sounds. "Camp" at a farm-style holiday park near Havelock.
Feb 3 - Drive to Abel Tasman. Stay at Old Macdonald's Farm (holiday park with pigs, lamas, cows, and sheep).
Feb 4 - Day of kayaking in the Abel Tasman ... beautiful turquoise waters and soft white sand beaches. Check out "split apple rock". Perfect weather today, very enjoyable. Meet up with Robin and Duncan (Whisper) in Motueka for dinner.
Feb 5 - Lots of driving today ... drive through Nelson, then South to West Coast. Stop in Westport to visit the Seal Colony, and in Punakaiki to check out the Pancake Rocks. Continue on to Greymouth where we "make camp" and enjoy a terrific sunset over the beach. Amazing views along the entire West Coast.
Feb 6 - More driving ... Drive to Kaikoura via SH7, with a stop in Hamner Springs where Sally originally wanted to visit the Hot Springs, but it was a wicked hot day, so that idea was thrown aside. Kaikoura is a neat town .. visit to the Seal Colony there too.
Feb 7 - Short drive up to Blenheim, where we rent bicycles and go wine touring. Bit windy, and otherwise another day of fantastic weather.
Feb 8 - Take the ferry back over to Wellington (North Island), and drive drive drive ... all the way back to Lake Taupo House. After the last three days, I never want to get in the car again!
Feb 9 - Relax, and rejuvenate! NO DRIVING!
Feb 10 - Get the house cleaned up, do some laundry, and leave the house for good ... drive to Waitomo.
Feb 11 - Enjoy a few shorts walks in the morning (visiting a natural bridge and some caves). In the afternoon join the Black Water Rafting Company for a FANTASTIC caving adventure which included an 100 foot abseiling, flying fox, tubing, tramping through water, sliding, slipping through holes/caves, and climbing waterfalls (oh yeah and millions of glow-worms).
Feb 12 - On to Auckland ... enjoy our last lunch with Mark & Sally at Loaded Hog, where we run into Scott & Nancy (Apsara), who invited us out to Waiheke Island. After dropping off Mark & Sally at the airport we ferry over to Waiheke and enjoyed dinner out with Scott & Nancy.
Feb 13 - Spend the day with Scott and Nancy on Waiheke, visiting a few wineries and going on a very different "Art Walk".
Feb 14 - Chris and I finally head back to Whangarei ... hooray back home again, and very happy to see that Billabong did great in the three weeks without us!
1/22/05 - 2/14/05
by KT
W.I.P. JOURNAL: This journal piece is not quite yet complete. We are frantically trying to get all our pictures uploaded before we depart New Zealand, and therefore lose our cheap & fast internet connections. In order to accomplish that goal we are posting this journal with mostly just pictures, and sparse outline-like text ... we hope that we will be able to update the text at a later date.
Jan 22 - Birthday dinner for Chris with Island Sonata ... cake and pizza (YUM). Chris got kauri wood pieces (for carving) and new shorts (yipee).
Jan 24 - Early airport pickup. Drive to house Sally and Mark have via house swap, in Lake Taupo. Another 'lucky' car breakdown in Cambridge (where car breaks down just as we arrive at gas station with Auto Supplies store next door). House is HUGE! We have lunch in town and then enjoy fantastic sunset on the lake.
Jan 25 - Volcanic activity day: Craters of the moon walk. Thermal wonderland (amazing colors), and Kerosene Creek (where Chris impresses us with his knowledge about brain amoebas).
Jan 26 - Tonagriro National Park. 2 Hr waterfall hike (Taranaki Falls). Another terrific lake sunset.
Jan 27 - Tongariro Crossing (8hr tramp) ... terrific tramp, but very tiring. Rocky, volcanic, colorful lakes. (OH yeah, yet ANOTHER hose breaks on the car (and we are "lucky" again that it breaks just as we pull into the parking lot!).
Jan 28 - Finally a day of just Relaxing and lounging (hooray!). We watch T.V., Mark and Sally go for a walk on Hot Water Beach and KT does lots of Video editing (I'm making a video of our first year of cruising ... slow going as I don't really know how to use the software yet, we figure I have about 20 hours of my time into the first 6 minutes of video (yikes, at this rate the year 1 video should be done by the time we finish our 5th year of cruising!)
Jan 29 - Chris and Mark do some car work. We all visit Huka Falls (and go for a walk/hike along the river). We check out the Jet Boats and Prawn farm. Island Sonata shows up and spends the evening with us.
Jan 30 - House cleaning, laundry, and relaxing (we're preparing to head down to the South Island). Chris, Mark, & Sally walk down to the beach, where they watch some boat racing. I work on the video some more. Island Sonata spends another night.
Jan 31 - Drive SH1 from Lake Taupo to Lower Hutt (just outside Wellington) ... about 5 hour drive. Dinner with friends of Mark & Sally in Lower Hutt.
Feb 1 - Te Papa museum in Wellington (very very neat museum). It's an overcast/rainy day. Take the ferry over to Picton (South Island). Spend the night in Picton (with lovely train track overhead ... ugh).
Feb 2 - Water taxi/ferry out to Ship's Cove to do part of the Queen Charlotte track. 5hr tramp to Fernaux Lodge (where we catch the taxi/ferry back). Jump in the car for a scenic drive overlooking the Marlborough Sounds. "Camp" at a farm-style holiday park near Havelock.
Feb 3 - Drive to Abel Tasman. Stay at Old Macdonald's Farm (holiday park with pigs, lamas, cows, and sheep).
Feb 4 - Day of kayaking in the Abel Tasman ... beautiful turquoise waters and soft white sand beaches. Check out "split apple rock". Perfect weather today, very enjoyable. Meet up with Robin and Duncan (Whisper) in Motueka for dinner.
Feb 5 - Lots of driving today ... drive through Nelson, then South to West Coast. Stop in Westport to visit the Seal Colony, and in Punakaiki to check out the Pancake Rocks. Continue on to Greymouth where we "make camp" and enjoy a terrific sunset over the beach. Amazing views along the entire West Coast.
Feb 6 - More driving ... Drive to Kaikoura via SH7, with a stop in Hamner Springs where Sally originally wanted to visit the Hot Springs, but it was a wicked hot day, so that idea was thrown aside. Kaikoura is a neat town .. visit to the Seal Colony there too.
Feb 7 - Short drive up to Blenheim, where we rent bicycles and go wine touring. Bit windy, and otherwise another day of fantastic weather.
Feb 8 - Take the ferry back over to Wellington (North Island), and drive drive drive ... all the way back to Lake Taupo House. After the last three days, I never want to get in the car again!
Feb 9 - Relax, and rejuvenate! NO DRIVING!
Feb 10 - Get the house cleaned up, do some laundry, and leave the house for good ... drive to Waitomo.
Feb 11 - Enjoy a few shorts walks in the morning (visiting a natural bridge and some caves). In the afternoon join the Black Water Rafting Company for a FANTASTIC caving adventure which included an 100 foot abseiling, flying fox, tubing, tramping through water, sliding, slipping through holes/caves, and climbing waterfalls (oh yeah and millions of glow-worms).
Feb 12 - On to Auckland ... enjoy our last lunch with Mark & Sally at Loaded Hog, where we run into Scott & Nancy (Apsara), who invited us out to Waiheke Island. After dropping off Mark & Sally at the airport we ferry over to Waiheke and enjoyed dinner out with Scott & Nancy.
Feb 13 - Spend the day with Scott and Nancy on Waiheke, visiting a few wineries and going on a very different "Art Walk".
Feb 14 - Chris and I finally head back to Whangarei ... hooray back home again, and very happy to see that Billabong did great in the three weeks without us!
Good health, family and friends
Life is good when we have good health, family and friends..
"Good health" is what I wished my users and my relatives, after all what can we do if we do not have good health? We so often take it for granted..
Family and relatives are people who remind us of who we were when young. Like my cousin whom I meet only during CNY who' s now a Navy diver.. My memories of him were when I was 8-9 yrs old and he was a baby taken care of by my mum. Such memories.. So for all those cousins, uncles and aunties whom we only meet once a year, better catch up with them this year else may have to wait another year..
Friends whom we meet more often than our relatives, like colleagues, church friends have such impact on our lives in influencing us and our decisions.. our encouragers, our critics and much more..
"Good health" is what I wished my users and my relatives, after all what can we do if we do not have good health? We so often take it for granted..
Family and relatives are people who remind us of who we were when young. Like my cousin whom I meet only during CNY who' s now a Navy diver.. My memories of him were when I was 8-9 yrs old and he was a baby taken care of by my mum. Such memories.. So for all those cousins, uncles and aunties whom we only meet once a year, better catch up with them this year else may have to wait another year..
Friends whom we meet more often than our relatives, like colleagues, church friends have such impact on our lives in influencing us and our decisions.. our encouragers, our critics and much more..
New blog look!
Got comment from Will that my blog looks "O-Biang" so with help of BK, it' s now revamped! Certainly more colorful than before, dun u think?
Kayıtlar
