Tauranga

Sadly our last day. We are sharing our berth with the Queen Elizabeth, so there are over 5000 passengers ashore.  We have just walked around Mt Maunganui and are sitting at Coffee Club on the beachfront.  There is also the under 14 Surf Lifesaving Champs, so it is really buzzing.

Goes without saying that it is a beautiful day - getting hot.  This will be the last blog on tour but I will update earlier ones with photos over the weekend.  Sad, but excited about sailing into Auckland tomorrow morning.  Will probably get up early to see us come in.

Last Sea Day

Another great day, although a brisk nor-easterly.  We got up a bit earlier today and did our mile around the deck, followed by a Cappuccino before breakfast.  We were just off the Hawkes Bay coast and saw Cape Kidnappers and more recently Mahia.  It is a pity the cruise doesn't call at Napier but I think we are too big.  For the first time we are actually on deck 14, mainly because it was a bit too windy on deck 7. A very different world up here. Funny thing at breakfast, we were at a table of 8, the other 6 were Australian, none of whom had previously met, but all of whom we had shared either breakfast or lunch at some time.

As this is our last sea day, Vivian has bridge again this afternoon and tonight is our last formal dinner, so sad to think that this journey is fast approaching an end.  Looking forward to Tauranga tomorrow (& yet more logs at the port).

Wellington

When I lived in Wellington there was a saying (actually related to rugby) that you can't beat Wellington on a good day, and boy, do we have a great day.  Arrived to clear sky and no wind and this continued all day - we were so pleased for all the overseas visitors. Once again we were docked amongst thousands of logs, they seem to be following us around.  The P&O Aurora was also in port (apparently towed in :-) ), so there were heaps of visitors around.  We decided to take the walk into town from. The Westpac Stadium to the city, rather than paying $30 for the shuttle.  Met with my Aunt Lois and had a great catch up at Astoria, which I had forgotten was where I used to go when I lived there.

Later we walked along the waterfront to TePapa Museum. A lovely waterfront and so active at lunchtime. Certainly has a buzz about it and puts Auckland to shame.  TePapa was most interesting and we can see it would take many visits to see even a bit properly. The walk back was a bit more of a trek in the afternoon sun.  Late lunch in the Horizon Lounge and then took books to the deck and sat in the sun, watching the world. The Aurora set sail about an hour before us, so the captains had a horn challenge, which was noisy and fun.

The evening was just as calm when we set sail and after dinner we went back to the deck to watch the sunset.  Were a bit surprised that we were sailing southeast for so long, but an even better sunset over the South Island, which spread out over the whole of the horizon.  As a special treat we had a couple of little Maui dolphin swimming along with us.  They couldn't keep up the 18 knots, so slipped behind.  Saw another couple a bit further out.  It wasn't until well after 8.30 that we rounded Pen arrow Heads and then took a more northerly course.  Sea day tomorrow and the weather forecast looks great for the ready of the cruise.  Big downside tonight was the delivery of the disembarkation papers - nooooooooooo

Akaroa & Picton

Arrived in Akaroa to an overcast morning, which turned into a bit of drizzle, but that didn't last long. Akaroa is a tender port, however we didn't have to wait more than 10 minutes for our number to be called. Luckily the sea was calm. As we were a bit earlier than expected we went for a coffee while waiting for our friends Colin & Marilyn, but there was a large crowd and the coffee took half an hour!  After Colin & Marilyn had their coffee we went for a drive around the area.  Up in the clouds reminded us of the last time we were here 20 years ago.  The town however has certainly changed a lot.  Called in to a lovely little bay and were pleased that the weather started to improve.  Back to Akaroa township for lunch and then down to the waterfront, where we had another glass of wine:-) .  All too soon we were back on the wharf and the tender boat was waiting, so promptly back on board.  Many thanks to Colin & Marilyn - funny thing is that they will be staying with us next week, so we are looking forward to showcasing our neck of paradise.

Monday brings us to Picton, but not as we expected - we are once again surrounded by logs :-) . Because of our size we are at the commercial port and were bused into town.  A nice touch was that all passengers were presented with a bouquet - considering we had over 2600 passengers, that is a lot of flowers!   The weather was looking good, but still took all the gear, just in case.  Met up with one of Vivian's old school friends for a coffee in town and later did a pleasant walk through the bush to Bobs Bay.  Took longer than we expected, but worth it. Back a couple of hours later and had a drink at the old scow which is now a restaurant.  I must be out of touch as Vivian's small glass of flat lemonade was $4.50!  Anyway, that was enough of Picton so back to the ship for lunch and relax on the deck with a book.

Great weather and we enjoyed our departure down Queen Charlotte Sound from the comfort of a 12th deck balcony.  Our dinner companions, Steph & Murray had invited us to have a look at balcony cabin, so picked a good day.  Great photos of sunset over the top of the South Island.

Given that wee set sail at 5.00 and reached Cook Strait by 6.00, we are all joking as to what the Captain will do to fill in the time to reach Wellington tomorrow.  We'll see.

Dunedin

At last I can post, but I've deleted photos. I'll add them when we get home.  Turned out a lovely day and we went to Dunedin city this morning - a pipe band competition in the Octagon was great.  This afternoon we walked around Port Chalmers waterfront and actually had a beer to refresh us for the walk back.

Vivian is having a little lie-down and I've come down to this big marquee, along with hundreds of others for free WiFi, courtesy of Port of Otago. Much better & cheaper than the ship.  Even George, the manager agreed.  Off shortly to Akaroa and looking forward to meeting up with our friend Colin & Marilyn.  Really hope this weather holds.

Dunedin Railway Station

Pipe bands in the Octagon

A beer at Port Chalmers

Port Chalmers - Diamond Princess on the right

Hobart ......

Although we were promised an overcast day, we disembarked to a clear brisk morning.  The disembarkation process was much smoother than in Melbourne and we found the Thrifty depot with no problems. Michelle at Thrifty was a Maori lass from up north and we got an upgrade, although I think it was more for their benefit!

Unfortunately as we were so early, our friends Val & Max from Noosa were waiting for us at the wharf.  Once text contact was made we were soon on our way with Max the Tour Director & Navigator.  First stop was for coffee & muffins (free muffins for seniors) at Sorell, which Max was pleased to note also had a 'dump station' - not that we needed to know that :-)

Apart following the slowest Toyota in Australia, we had an easy drive to Port Arthur, after also stopping off at the blowhole at Eaglehawk Neck - most impressive sight.  We were fortunate to arrive at Port Arthur before midday and the rush of visitors.  They even accepted the Gold Card, even though the sign stated Australian card only.  As funny as it may sound but the grounds are really lovely, despite both early and more recent history at the site.  The 40 minute lecture in the midday sun was frankly a disappointment, but we did glean some interesting insights. A cruise around the bay and little islands was fascinating, when it was pointed out that one of the islands was a juvenile facility for children transported to Australia at an age as low as 9.

After lunch it was all too soon to leave for the journey back to Hobart, about 1.5 hours.  Val & Max then had another 3 hour drive, retracing some of our journey - thanks to you both for your friendship and company.  Omitted to mention that while Max & I were doing the hard work up front, the women were doing 10 months of catch-up.

We drove through the area devastated by the recent bush fires and in particular around the Dunalley area.  So sad to see the devastation and the randomness of the fires.  House upon house reduced to brick chimney, yet in the middle a house and grounds completely untouched.  The school was completely destroyed, but a new school and grounds upland running after 3 weeks. Teams of fencers etc. out and about - a great spirit in the area.

The next couple of days were on the Tasman Sea and it pretty well lived up to it's reputation with clouds, wind and a large swell.  Gentle really, but made both navigating the decks and dancing a little 'interesting'.  Today (Friday) we set the alarm for 6.00 so we could be on deck for Milford Sound.  It was raining, but stopped after half an hour and we had some spectacular views.   We were particularly impressed at how they turned the ship around so we could exit.  The rest of the day has been spent in the Fiords answer visited 4 of them, the last being Dusky Sound. Looking forward to going around Foveaux Straight tonight and all set for Dunedin, where they have free WiFi.

Port Arthur - Murray with Max & Val

Port Arthur

Devastation from the fires

Milford Sound

Melbourne & beyond

Arrived to a breezy morning and had a leisurely breakfast, allowing those with more pressing needs to disembark.  Surprisingly there was no cellphone coverage in the cabin and limited on deck.  Eventually contacted Lynn & arranged to meet tram 109 at the end of the line at 11.00.  We got off the ship just after 10.00 and were (sort of) surprised that despite the notice in the Princess Patter, the broadcast on board and the signs in the terminal, the woman ahead of us had an apple. Lucky for her she declared it before the dog found it. The dog was suitably rewarded. We were berthed beside the much smaller Seabourn Odessey, which can be seen in the photos.

When Lynn & Wendy arrived we went for a pretty extensive walk, had coffee and back to the waterfront for lunch, followed by another walk along the recently renovated piers.  As neither Lynn nor Wendy had been to this area for a while, they were delighted to see how their taxes have been spent.  All too soon the day was over and we walked back on board and got ready for dinner.  I must say that the wind had really got up and was coming straight into the harbour, with lots of white caps.

After dinner we went to the theatre and saw a very good illusionist.  Don't know how he did it :-)  A big day and bed called soon after.  At least tomorrow is a sea day, so can relax,

Vivian, Wendy, Murray, Lynn

At sea

Although with an inside cabin, it is impossible to know what time it is, woke 6.30 and got tea from room service.  Did 1.5 circuits of the Promenade Deck, but unfortunately the deck does not go all the way around the ship and you have to climb up a deck at front of the ship. Vivian's legs were playing up a bit, hence not making the mile, which is 2.5 on this ship.  We thought that we'd have our usual special coffee before breakfast but found ourselves at the International Restaurant, where seated breakfast was served, so skipped coffee. We were seated at a tab,e with an Asian couple from the States, Cheryl, also from the states and Muriel & Graham from Tauranga.  Found out that Muriel was going to the Cruise Critic "Meet & Greet" this afternoon - as are we, much to Vivian's surprise.

After breakfast we dropped into the library and sat up on deck for a while.  It turned a little cool, so down to the Atrium for our coffee.  Still not impressed!!  But it was time for lunch, so off we go and this time it was an all American table, with a couple from Kentucky, Cameron & Graham from Atlanta & Gwen and Bruce, who we plan to see at home when they come up to Goat Island after the cruise.  Once again, our table was almost the last to vacate and we made our way up to the Skywalker's Lounge, which is up the top aft and overhangs the ship on either side.  About 50 Cruise Critic members were there and it was great to meet them.  The 2 guys from lunch were also there - so a small world on a biggish ship.

Formal night tonight and this will be the first time to meet our dinner companions.  Will update this tomorrow as we also have the Captain's welcome party and the show to go to.

Ship ahoy

We are aboard and on our way to Melbourne, where we meet up with my brother, Lynn & Wendy.  But before we get ahead of ourselves, some recollections on you journey from Auckland.  With an early start, we got to the airport at 6.30 am and having checked in on line, found ourselves at emigration in no time at all and more importantly, no queues.  As we have new passports, we breezed through there too.

A coffee and scone and all aboard for 8.30 departure.  An uneventful flight, watched "Argo", although Vivian was busy chatting with the woman next to her, so only got half way through.  Qantas food etc. was most unimpressive.  The flight was full of Asian tourists returning home and as we were towards the back of the plane, we were amongst the last to get off.  However with our passports we bypassed the queues once again and found that our bags were already through, so Murray chased after them and we were away even before the crew.  Customs were very kind and went straight through.

Downstairs to the train station and in no time we were on our way to Circular Quay.  The trains are a disgrace, with graffiti and rubbish.  But was efficient and we soon got off right opposite the bow of Diamond Princess.  It was HOT, but a short stroll  with our bags and we were able to drop them off with Princess staff by 11.00.  Had a coffee & toasted sandwich/croissant at the nearest cafe. Not the most memorable, but similar to Qantas standard.  Walked around to the Opera House and then up to Government House, where we were able to sit in the grounds for a while.  As the gardens were about to close due to an official engagement, we left about 1.30 and walked back to the ship.

We had been told that boarding commenced at 2.00 and that our deck would be boarding after 3.00.  However when we turned up we were ushered straight through and were in our cabin by 2.00.  Sometimes it helps to ignore "the rules".  Funny thing was that although Vivian had been through scanners at both Auckland & Sydney, the ship scanner detected metal in her shoes, so she had to go back and send her shoes through!  The only other hi cup was that Murray's bag did not arrive.  After 3 hours we rang the desk and magically it appeared about 10 minutes later.  A very relieved Murray.

Our cabin decorations

Dinner was open sitting as we were not yet ready to sail.  The ship gave us a lovely gateaux, with candle and the waiters sang "Happy Anniversary", much to the amusement of others in the dining room, as we were the first to have a celebration on board.  A bit of a rush as had safety lecture (muster stations) and of course cast off at 8.00.  Sydney turned on a lovely evening and we stayed up on deck chatting to a young Canadian couple until we reached the heads and the pilot left the ship.

A great start to the cruise, what will tomorrow hold?

Circular Quay with Diamond Princess behind

Our Wedding Anniversary gateaux

Wedding Anniversary

Beautiful morning, although a bit chilly.  43 years ago, this was our wedding day, so we are off to breakfast at our usual haunt, the Dragonfly in Matakana.

Yes, the bags are packed and locked - have weighed them and one is just on 22 kg & the other about 18 kg.  I know that the bathroom scales always overstate (that is certainly my excuse), but we'll have to wait until tomorrow's check-in to see whether my theory is correct.

Diamond Princess cruise

Leave Sydney 8.00 pm Friday 8 February, return Auckland 6.00 am Friday 22 February

Almost gone

The cat is not at all aware of her impending holiday.

I wish I was as relaxed as Tiger :-)

3 more sleeps

Our first cruise of the year is on the Diamond Princess - leaving Sydney on Friday evening.  The bags are packed (sort of) and we are set.  Have not told the cat yet, as she is going on her own holiday to Fiona & Richard's in Auckland.  Tiger (cat) is happily oblivious.

Weather here is still windy and what little rain we got yesterday has gone.  The garden will suffer while we are away, but our friends Maureen & Wyn are going to water for us.

Algies Bay, Warkworth, Auckland from our deck