Whilst we were sleeping.. parents enjoyed another day!

It was great to chat this morning, how amazing modern technology is.

We have had a great day, went to a town about 30 miles away where they have some kiwis in captivity, which is the only way most people are going to see them. They are such a quaint shape, with no arms/wings and a round bottom.

Then we went to a fantastic cave where you go on a boat (for a short trip) and in complete silence and darkness look up at the rocky ceiling which is covered with glow-worms, it looks like the Milky Way many times over.

One of the things we particularly enjoy is seeing the gardens which are filled with the most brilliant and healthy roses, and indeed they grow on the roadsides, apparently wild.

We nearly didn't go to the daves because it was a bit expensive, and then I thought: 'the kids would say OH GO ON DO IT, spend the money!' (Yeah too right! So glad they went!!) So we did.

It was well worth it.Have learnt quite a bit about cows, horses, farming etc. NZ has no foot and mouth, blue tongue, or indeed any of the dreadful diseases we have in UK. They only feed their cows on grass, no additives. James and Vanessa breed thoroughbred horses. Last night we got up to witness the birth of a colt, at 2.30 am. It was born by the time we got out into the field, mum was licking it.

This morning it was on its legs (very long and spindly) and wobbling about.The impression of Northland that remains is of endless, endless, endless beautiful scenery.

Tomorrow we shall take Joyce out. (She lived in the Old Surgery when parents lived in Garden House in Weston S Mare) We may visit Rotorua from here, but not sure.

Dearest Parents.. please continue to enjoy your S.K.I holiday!!

(S.K.I., according to my dear father, means "Spend Kids Inheritance") hahahah!