Auckland, NZ!

Two days ago, I arrived into Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. And I have been spending the last few days with Hollie, my English friend I met in Fremantle, preparing for our 6 week road trip around New Zealand.

We have made the reservation for the camper van and well pick it up tomorrow morning to begin the tour. Now, the camper van is pretty sweet. It has a sink, microwave, refrigerator, storage space, raised ceiling, and a table with seats that can become a bed in the rear. And the thing looks like it could take an anti-tank round. It is no doubt guaranteed good times. The only issue is its a stick shift.

I have driven stick only twice in the US. Once with my friend Chris who was either kind enough or foolish enough to let me drive his car. And the other time was with my grandfather who was teaching me because I was going to go rent a car with my brother in Ireland. And rumor has it the mainly drive manual transmission cars. The car we got in Ireland was automatic so I got no experience there. And it wasnt until I drove up the West coast of Australia with the two girls from Freo that I got another chance to drive stick, and even then that was brief and clunky. I got to try it again once in a 4WD Land Cruiser out on Fraser Island, but again that was also brief but much smoother. So needless to say I am no expert. So driving this Monster 5-speed Camper van down the streets of Auckland could only be classified as an adventure. I think I am going to just give in and let myself be emasculated and let my female companion drive us out of the city till I get the hang of it. But still I couldnt be more excited.

Prior to my actually arriving in New Zealand, I have heard nothing but praise about this place. Everything is cheaper, great scenery, nice people, good wine, and of course bungee jumping. Has my travel insurance expired yet? I am expecting good things over the next 6 weeks. So heres to my not being disappointed.

Let's do this!