Home again

We're home now. We waved goodbye to New Zealand with regret, having had such a lovely 7 weeks there. The weather was variable, as spring weather usually is, but having said that, I wore sandals instead of shoes most days, and only once had to wear my heavier rain jacket with fleece underneath. We did seem to get more than our share of wet, windy weekends though (but I'm not complaining).

We didn't explore as much as we usually do, mostly because of my fatigue level, although we did try to walk most days. We had some very windy days when it was uncomfortable to be outside at all. I found travel days very tiring, and didn't do any driving over there by myself as I usually do.

We had a few hours in the wonderful Koru Club Lounge at the Auckland Airport before our flight. Not only was the club large and quiet, but it had individual newly remodeled bathroms with showers, all amenities provided, and also free 20 minute back massages in a private suite. We both took advantage of the showers and massage. A constantly replenished buffet, free drinks and free wireless were all part of the service.

We were able to change our seats in the business class upstairs seating area of the 747 so that they were one in front of the other, much easier for quiet conversation than the across-the-aisle format of the flight going out. I had my bed set up as soon as we were at cruising altitude and took my meals at Barry's table, going back to bed between courses. Travelling business class really spoils one for future airline travel!