So, here we are in Tauranga, Bay of Plenty, in another Homestay - this one a friend of the John's friend we 've come to see. We had a wonderful stay in Opito Bay. We had dinner with the owner and her husband - it felt like we'd known them for years,msitting round chatting and eating, talking family, politics and life in general. It was a struggle to stay awake and by 8.30 , my eyes were closing independently of each other like a malfunctioning ventriloquists dummy. I slept for ten hours dead to the world - John only slept for 6( nowhere near long enough!. Waking to a sea view, fabulous blue skies and sunshine and another lovely meal with our hosts was a joy. They hugged and kissed us when we left and I felt really sad to be leaving. we then drove down the coast - more amazing scenery- air con on full blast until we reached Tauranga.all the kiwis are saying that the weather is freaky- this has been their best weather all summer. Good to know they have the same moans and groans as us. However when they moan, they then look at us and remark on how their weather issues are as nothing to ours.They go on to paint England in shades of grey, fog, snow, and rain and then feel a whole heap better about themselves and their climate!So, we arrived at Nigel's home and I have to say that the NZ way of building is great. They build boxes of all shapes and sizes with a huge array of colours and designs- we'd call them architect designed - with balconies, decks etc. We love them - spacious, light, functional, comfortable and just ready to be stamped with your own ideas. Nigel and John were at Uni together and have only seen each other once in the past twenty five or so years so lots of catching up to do. Nigel's wife, Orasa, is Thai and very friendly. She has a daughter living at home, Fair, who is a deliciously grumpy teenager permanently glued to her person. She made us smile but infuriated her mum!they were invited to a BBQ so scooped us up to go with them. Wow, do the kiwis do BBQs!! A fab house set in gorgeous gardens with pond, stream and a four hole golf course. the other 14 holes were dotted about on the neighbours lands (all neighbours were at the BBQ) and all the blokes did the 18 holes, wandering from garden to garden. Amazing!the hostess is also Thai so the food was a feast of Thai food to die for. We arrived at about 2 and were still there, sitting round an open fire, in the dark. ( but not very cold) at about 8.then off to our B&B - on a grand scale. Again, welcomed in as part of the family, watched rugby, had a drink, chatted about life etc. we are loving the kiwi warmth. Now lying in bed looking at blue sky, twinkling pool, cup of tea in hand (thanks to John) and looking forward to a walk with Nigel and Orasa followed by a drive over to see Mandy and Peter in Hamilton this evening. Feeling back to normal today, having both slept 8 hours. This is certainly the life! Xxxxxxxx