Back in Auckland on the 2nd of November 2010

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We’re really starting to enjoy this now, we have clocked up 730 kms on our bicycles and the core fitness is now there, ready and waiting to help us through the next section of our trip – the Coromandel Peninsula. On our trip so far we have achieved so much it has taken us both by surprise and perhaps we are now really beginning to feel addicted to New Zealand, its people and the places we have seen. Some of the highlights so far include:

• Completing our first day of cycling more than 70kms
• Visiting the oldest colonial building in the entire country; The wooden Kemp House and The Stone House at Keriker,
• Visiting Tane Mahuta; the oldest living Kauri tree in the country
• Night kayaking through the phosphorescence
• Getting up close to the dolphins while on ‘The Rock’ boat
• Meeting so many great people from all over the world
• Watching the blog hits top 1,000
• Sledging down a sand-dune
• Watching two oceans collide at Cape Reinga
• Seeing a real life Kiwi bird
• Building a chook mansion
• Eating all the amazing New Zealand food
• Eating picnic lunches in some amazing places while out cycling
• Playing in an international 5 a-side match and finishing on the winning team
• Running in the 9 km fun run and Mel finishing second in the women’s section

But I haven’t forgotten about home and while we’ve been away I have been kept informed of the goings on both as far as the family go and special praise must go to:

• Elliott Hindley – my nephew who is currently appearing at the Theatre Royal in Norwich in the Nut Cracker and has cemented his place in the Wymondham football team as a goal-keeper
• Ellamae Hindley, my niece who recently performed at St Andrews Hall in Norwich to much acclaim.
• My Mum – for mastering Skype
• The rest of my family and friends for staying in touch with me so well

The blog has received more then 1,250 hits to date. So to everyone at home – I have not forgotten you and it is clear that you have not forgotten me – keep the spirit alive, I know that you will!!!