From Mt. Taranaki I drove east to visit a previous woof family near the coast>> my time with them consisted of a great deal of play with the kids: American football practice against the dogs, pool rugby, water park, chess, secret languages, cape kidnappers (beautiful coast run to observe the massive gannet (bird) colony, history museum, watching the Australian open, farmville, sold car, more wood splitting. From their place I got a ride to Palmerston North for the night crazy, fun dancing that night. The following day I hitched a ride to the Tongoriro crossing again. Again, rained out and gale force winds. I hitch hike with my backpack a day pack and golf clubs. Brian let me keep the clubs; I will drop them in Auckland for him to pick up at a later date. I guess it is not typical that hitch hikers are seen traveling with golf clubs, but then again, I wouldn't classify myself as a typical hitchhiker. If I get another 18 holes or so with of the clubs, i will consider it worth it. With exactly 7 days until departure home, my excitement builds.
Kiwi sayings:
"Good on ya mate" - "well done"
"She's pretty tidy, eh" - "she is quite attractive isn't she"
"Sweet as, mate" - "good deal buddy"
"choice, eh?" - "pretty cool isn't it"
togs - swimsuit
jandles - flip flops
nappies - dipers
wheelie bin - dumpster
tea - dinner
jersey,jumper - jacket/ pullover