A new country to explore

I am in New Zealand a.k.a. Kiwiland a.k.a. Middle Earth, where confusing the inhabitants with Aussies might get you killed and where rugby truly is a religion. I always thought the latter was an exaggeration, until I actually came down here. These people live and breathe rugby. Yesterdays game against South Africa was proof of that. The entire country rolled out to watch the game. In the small town of Paihia (north of Auckland) I went to a local pub to enjoy a pint of bitter with my rugby. In good Little Britain-tradition I was the only Springbok-fan in the village. Which made the South African's victory all the sweeter. Cheering for Januarie's winning try (it was a beauty) while the Kiwis mourned... *grins*

Ah yes... Paihia. First stop of the KiwiExperience tour and a total bore. Unless you're (1) an old-age pensioner or (2) part of a perfect 1.7-kid family. But not for me. There was nothing in this town (which is basically a gateway to the Bay of Islands, which is a bay, with islands) that interested me, save the expensive tour-type stuff. Plus, the weather prevented me from even going on a walk. I was forced to spend a full Saturday in that dump and I spent it watching bad day-time TV and six episodes of The Simpsons. Which left me braindead. I was glad to leave that place.

Back in Auckland now, but only for a few hours. I'm continuing my trip down south, which should become more and more interesting with every stop. I'll keep you posted!