Epilogue

When I was a child there was a tv programme called 'the FBI'. It starred an actor by what I then thought was the ludicrous name of Efrem Zimbalist Junior. At the end of each episode an authoritative voice announced 'The Epilogue'. I never knew what that meant, but now I do.

So Curly and Shiny are back in blighty after (we think) a 38 hour journey involving travel on three aircraft, two cars, one bus and one train. We ate 5 airline meals including 2 breakfasts on Monday - one over Denmark, the other over Birmingham.

In NZ we drove in total about 4800 km and walked quite a few too. In addition to the travel between the UK and NZ we travelled on one further aircraft, two helicopters, a ferry, several other boats a horse and a kayak. Altogether we took 5009 photos. 

So reflections on NZ ...
We always found people were warm, friendly, relaxed and happy to help.

The pioneering spirit is still strong and NZers have a really positive, 'just get on with things' attitude to life. 

We noticed how they value and repair things instead of disposing of them. For example, there are many cars that we would regard as old still driving around. Cars from the 60s and 70s - and even some from the 20s and 30s. 

Lots of shops still sell fabrics and knitting wools, so it seems that quite a lot of people make their own clothes.

The whole country has amazing scenery.

We loved the times spent in the 'bush' with fabulous ferns, trees and birdsong, particularly the melodious Bellbirds and Tuis which must have some of the most pure and beautiful calls.

We're envious of the space that everyone has - although we would miss city life too

Long straight roads that aren't Roman in origin. (though they're not all straight by any means) 

There were some things we didn't like. For example, we didn't like the fact that so many cafes and restaurants close quite early. In some places it was difficult to find a place to eat after 7.30 - 8 this was even true of some towns with significant numbers of visitors and tourists, 

We found it quite difficult to come to terms with the country's susceptibility to earthquakes. Christchurch is still experiencing tremors and there is a lot of uncertainty about the future of the city. 

Similarly, the geothermal areas are both amazing and scary. Taupo exploded less than 2000 years ago ands in geological terns is still regarded as an active volcano. Just like yellowstone it could erupt again one day ... and probably will...but in the meantime  it makes a fascinating country to visit.

We have been so fortunate to be able to have such a wonderful holiday - it is certainly a country we would like to return to if we ever get the chance -  so we can visit areas we were not able to fit in this time and spend longer in other areas. 
We have enjoyed writing this blog - reflecting on our journey as we travelled and sharing it with those of you following us.
Thanks and goodbye