With plans for being back in Wanganui for bonfire night we hit the road and enjoyed a couple of days travelling. Discovering the sites on the central west side. Visiting beaches, Waitomo Caves and more beautiful waterfalls. We soon arrived at Raglan, a surfing community which is known for some of the best left hand breaks in the world only to discover the sea was as flat as a pancake!Te Waihou Walkway felt like a hidden wonderland, and as the sun shone we were amazed by the the blue spring, and the crystal clear water which is taken further up stream and used by a water company. Lee couldn’t resist a quick dip even though the stream maintains a temperature of 10°C come summer and winter. The local thought he was crazy to be in there this time of the year, I agreed and kept him talking as Lee retrieved his clothes.Laster in the day we arrived at Wharepapa South and enjoyed our first proper rock climbing venture in NZ at a crag called Froggatt Edge. Without a guide book we just attempted what looked good and as it was bolted we just relaxed and enjoyed the climbs. Lee missed the little nest in a crack of the wall, however I was delighted to spot some chirpy little chicks but moved on quickly as they looked hungry.The drive back to Wanganui took us alongside the Rangitikei River, which carves through the land. We stopped off at a golf course in an attempt to get access to the river and the owner was more than happy for us to wonder around the green and do just so. As his front room view he also explained the change in the rivers path over the years.Bonfire night turned into a good party at Ben and Sarah’s, with many of the friends we have already met turning up. The fire was an impressive size and Maxine couldn’t control her excitement and started the fireworks whilst it was light, but there was more than enough to keep them going on through the night.The celebrations continued on throughout the weekend with an art exhibition being held for the 2010 graduates from the local art college, ‘A Bourgeous Spectacle’ which included the work of Iva Leonard. Rumours spread that it was an occasion to dress up for, and even though traveling can usually excuse your appearance on a daily basis we couldn’t let the side down. Much thanks to Maxine who whipped a little number out from somewhere, and giving Lee a few options, even though he did opt out of wearing them. It was my fault I couldn’t stop laughing at seeing him in a tight purple top with a funky waistcoat, i’m sorry there is no photo. The Japanese drumming was an incredible opening, and the work was impressive. Our evening finished off with kebabs and the Wanganui firework display, which we had the best view of from Libby’s back garden.The following week we were welcomed in by the Mokha family, who moved over from England to enjoy life in the countryside and develop a small hold. Prabh, Emma and the two girls Katja and Yelena made us feel very welcome. Along with Nippy and Lucky the horses, Rocky the Pony, Whizzy the golden lab, Pixie the sheep who thinks he’s a dog, Lottie the blind chicken and the cats O’Marly and Shelly. As a first for them and us we arranged to be there as woofers as well as friends. Being fed well and being given the opportunity to go horse riding we were delighted to be there and help out with some light decorating.After developing some trust with Nippy over the week, I was so happy to of saddled her up and headed out for a ride alone, its a first and as a horse lover, a dream come true. It was really cool seeing Lee up there and enjoying it too, although he was glad to get stuck in with some jobs and even went over to Ben’s to help with some fencing. As our relations have developed with so many people in Wanganui it has become a home from home, and invitations to go back are sure to be followed up.We have now gone on holiday, to stay at Ben’s Bach. A lovely holiday home hidden away on the side of Lake Taupo in a place called Kuratau. The sun has been shining and it has been such a relaxing few days. The garden was a bit of a jungle and with garden tools collecting webs, Lee was eager to get them out. Grass cutting, tree trimming, wood chopping and brash burning has kept him sneezing with his heyfever, but he loves it, and when it gets cooler in the afternoons we have been out in the canadian canoe on the lake. Whilst we are here we hope to do the Tongariro Crossing and visit the North Islands top climbing venue, but for now we are content to just be.Thinking of our family and friends at the moment and just send lots of love and thanks for reading.xxxx