Auckland : Tuesday 01.06.08

Finally arrived in Auckland all good and well. actually gaining time in flight due to a strong tail wind we came in slightly earlier than expected, something we didn't really need as it became hard enough to kill time in Auckland for a day. after a smooth flight with hardly any sleep as usual, we were told it was a chilly 8 degrees outside and overcast, to those that know me, yeh i packed a second jumper as i can't stand the cold, Mark didn't and survived fine lol. somehow i even packed a beenie and it definitely saved my bacon whilst we trekked on foot through the city center. note to self, NZ = Cold

First up i've gotta say Auckland is a medium sized but inviting location, a feel of Melbourne and a little London. the weather flat out changed every 20 mins from sunshine to overcast to sprinkles of rain to sunshine. all good though. it was actually nice to have seen the other side of the tasman for a change and the maori culture is alive and strong. such an artistic and earthly foundation in their art and motifs. wonderful to see, and it was hard not to buy up every little carving we came across.

This was the first opportunity we had to take our cameras out all trip and ive posted a few below to get the ball rolling. you can generally see the progression through the early dawn day and into the arvo. im currently typing this up sitting in the departure lounge, eagerly waiting to shoot to LA (surprisingly) and getting some decent sleep and maybe a hearty burger, no not the Golden M variety. we as my battery runs low i'll sign off, keep in touch as we cruise on through to Mexico were the real adventure begins. here's to warmer weather on my part. lol quick word to Craig, Ian and the rest of the related INK family, spotted a great news agent / bookstore here in downtown selling copius amounts of the new KingBrown mag, well done lads! now save me a copy in Oz :) nice Yager vehicle vinyls as well.

PS: (photos coming once we land in LA, Aucklands Net connection refuses to allow me to upload anything. super pissed off, time for a good meal and a decent flight)