Wellington

So far on this trip, Richie and I have done things a little differently. Hiring a car and heading off the beaten track, rather than taking the organised tour. As a result we have made our own agenda and as a result it really has been invigorating and a fantastic way to see this wonderful country.

Actually, that reminds me, I haven't introduced you to our other travelling companion: Bertha!

Bertha is a maroon coloured Hyundai Lantra Estate, who so far has covered 142,000 miles - and then we coloured her! She has done a stirling job (so far!!!) though I think she will be tested a little more as we try the meandering roads of the South. Plus she has had a pair of Richie's trainers in her boot for over a week now, so the aroma of the car has taken on a certain aroma. Fragent it certainly isn't.

Anyway, after much walking we found the Kilburn Railcar and paid our $4 return and went up and down. This brief excursion up one of Wellington's hills afforded us some pretty good views of the city and I took a couple of pictures before we descended.

After this we did a little shopping and then went to Te Paupa museum, the National Museum of New Zealand. Though it was free admission (and we forgot to give a contribution as we walked out - Hey! still bought gifts from the shop though) I was a little disappointed. I suppose I have been brought up on a diet of excellent British Museums and as a result have certain expectations as what a museum should be. Unfortunately they were not fulfilled.

My disappointment was tempered by an excellent meal close to our hostel . I have to say the nightlife has been really good here in Wellington and there is certainly a European feel to it . Dare I say but I think I saw a young woman being a little.."unwell"..outside the local branch of Starbucks.