It's been 13 years since I first set foot in the Auckland area and I am glad to get the chance to see some sites I had missed first time around. Waiheke Island for one is a fantastic get away, with glorious beaches and bush.
A trip to Kare Kare yesterday to see the dramatic cliffs and atmospheric black sand beach , where the piano was shot and also crowded house recorded their together alone album.
Had my first views of Christchurch post quake today and it's heartbreaking to see just how much of the city has gone.
Emerging from the rubble and dust are inspiring examples of kiwi ingenuity - pop up coffee and entertainment areas, the re start shopping mall made from metal containers has created focus and character in one of the worst affected zones, and close to all my old haunts.
The Ohura gig has been upgraded to a concert venue, when I get details I'll post here.
