I am loving New Zealand so far! I just uploaded a bunch of pics so check them out. Auckland was ok, very touristy and americanized. It was pretty cloudy too. I love the Oruawharo Homestead in Takapau! My hosts Peter and Dianne are really nice and very funny. The house is amazing and huge! The outside landscape is almost unbelievable. I have to keep reminding myself that it is real. I worked in the garden today until lunch then did housework inside. Before dinner I went hunting for mushrooms and explored some more. The woods are so pretty and even better that they don't have any snakes or bears! I keep expecting to see a Hobbit or a fairy or something. I am drinking some fabulous NZ wine at the moment. I better get going! Will update later!

Cheers!