Waiheke island - Paradise

Waiheke island is located just outside Auckland city centre and is the second largest island in this part of the world, Great Barrier island being the largest. The island has over 8700 permanent residents, so ferries are frequent and reasonably priced. Departing from the Britomart (bottom of Queens Street) every hour and only costing NZ$36 with return, it offers a great escape from the city.

A Kiwi Christmas

Christmas at the Downey household

 

Christmas is that magical time of the year where everyone should dream a little. Ever since I was a little boy, Christmas has probably been my favourite holiday.

Homesickness and how to battle it

In my opinion, travelling is one of the best things a person can do. To try something new. To experience something completely different. Trying out a new spicy dish in India, staying in a monistary in Thailand, pet a kangoroo in Australia, hiking in "Middle Earth", posing next to Big Ben and meeting new people from all over the world; that's living.

Weekend in Rotorua (mobile post)

Good morning (or evening, depending where you are in the world)!

Currently I'm on a holiday in Rotorua, with friends from my Auckland orientation. This weekend is absolutely packed with heaps/loads of adventure; skyline, zipline, zorbing/OGO balls, mud pools and more.

So far it's been a great weekend and I can't wait to show you all! Hopefully by the beginning of next week I'll be able to show you all the videos and pictures from the trip.

In the meantime, here's a picture from onboard the gondola (Rotorua Skyline).

Stay tuned and see you soon!