Wellington

We went back to Wellington for two nights as wanted to explore the capital. The ferry crossing port is there so was a convenient stop. We were meant to meet my uncle on the ferry he works on however we got on the wrong one. We did however wait for his ferry to cross an hour later. He only had 30 mins break until the ferry departed again but I am sooo pleased we met. What a lovely, lovely man. Sarah suggested I made a sign on my porridge box. Which I did (tacky, but it charmed him) their was honestly no need to make the sign because, as soon as he walked round the corner I instantly knew it was him. The absolute spit of dad. His personality (he talks as much as you dad), mannerisms and looks. It Was very bizarre! Think we both wanted to talk for linger but he had to get back to the boat. He was living on the boat for this week so unfortunately we timed it badly and couldn't meet again. Very chuffed I got to meet with him though. Sarah and Shell really loved him too!

We stayed in our first 20 bed dorm! Yes you read correctly. 20 beds in one room. There were no smaller rooms. How is it possible that we STILL manage to be the last in bed? we did stroll in at 5.30am, but still? So once again it was a hop in bed fully clothed night! We went out into central Wellington had a really fun night. We all got up and sang Karaoke. Shell first Singing Yellow by Coldplay. The girl worked that stage. She Looked soo adorable I felt proud. Sarah up next who sung Lisa Loeb - Missed You. X-Factor standard performance per usual. Beautiful. Then it was my go to sing Lighthouse family - High. I was VERY reluctant to go up there (Clara, bad mood drunk reluctant) but Shell and Sarah pretty much dragged me up by the hair. Glad I did as i had sooo much fun. I felt right at home. Minus the voice, I rocked! People had there lighters out and I was making them sing-a-long. I felt like a super star! Maybe it's my calling in life?
After 4 hours sleep we had to check out and do a mammoth walk down to the next hostel. We were excited as we booked our own room which had an ensuite so we could prepare ourselves for our 'holiday' to OZ. We arrived to a massive sham of a hostel (worst yet) to find a little box room (Zoe & Shells old room size) with no bathroom. Booooo!
We had a pretty chilled day. Walked into the centre and LOVED The quirkiness of central Wellington. Went onto a strip which reminded us of a little Camden and sat drinking tea watching the world go by.
We went back to our room early to pack and get showered etc. 5 mins later we experienced an earthquake. Was pretty scary and I reckon it was only 3-4 on the Rector scale. It lasted about 20 seconds and the beds and everything were full on shaking. I'm glad I experienced it but in no rush to feel that again. Mother Nature bloody scares me!

We are now sitting at Auckland airport waiting to catch out plane to OZ. 12 hours early but reluctant to pay for a hostel for half a night. On the plus side... YAY to Austraillia. NNNOOOOO for it being the last stint of the journey.
I Would definitely, definitely come back to New Zealand. With a few extra layers of clothing next time...and a LOT more money.

What a gorgeous place! New Zealand, I'll miss you!