18th September To 4th October.

So, it's time to update. Where was I... Ah yes, we'd just arrived in Auckland and were both massively upset having spent twenty-nine hours travelling and having slept for about four of them, we were jet lagged, old-fashioned-tired and away from home. So having gotten into the hotel, The Quadrant, eaten a packet of Snakajacks and a king sized bag of Revels, we were asleep by seven.

The next morning, having awoken at about six in the morning after a blissful and uneventful sleep we contacted home. The first is always the hardest, when the sudden realisation that you aren't going to see the people on the screen, in the flesh, for a long time. In this state we decided to go down to breakfast, free in the deal we purchased along with our room. So we filled up on bowls of coco-pops and vegamite on toast, home comforts that made me feel better almost immediately. Well, in the cold rainy light of the city anyway.

We explored the first day, walking around the town aimlessly as we searched for coffee and something to have for lunch. The main street that captured our attention was not Queens Street, the main street of the city, but the High Street, the smaller, a little more characteristic street behind the main one, typically London in feeling as many large cities are. The problem was, that as soon as we found the places we liked, the more hesitant we were to look around much more... So we got a wide and undetailed glance at the city. Walking around the centre, we couldn't really see the New Zealand that we had psyched ourselves up for. There was no green, no mountains, only the Harbour that presented a rather clearer look at the sea than we'd see in England.

The second day took us to the Auckland Art Gallery. Lauren is the expert, and I supposed if I hadn't been mortally embarrassed having had to remove my bag from my back and carry it by hand, for what reason I wasn't sure and too far into the building to bother taking back to the reception. Uncomfortable and red faced I walked past the art, sometimes appreciated other times not, due to my lack of and unappreciation of culture and art. It's awful I know, but I did like some of it. Most of it, in fact, I just don't know if I deserved it...

The week flew by as we attempted to get over our jet lag, going into the town, buying food and browsing shops.

One day, having brought iced coffee we were sat by a fountain, enjoying the first of our New Zealand sun when a group of teenagers approached us... or rather, the slightly covered area in which we were sat.
"We want to light some cones, don't mind do you?" One of them asked.
"Um, no." We replied, slightly unsure to what exactly they were referring. What the hell were cones? Oh, we realised, when the mutilated bottle, looking very much like a bong, and the tobacco like substance was brought out. Weed. We politely declined the offer to join them and sat talking to them about the differences of home and NZ. We found little really, most of the swear words were the same, the varying levels of patriotism, the home life. They were nice though, offering advice as to where we should go and what we should do in the country and the city, they themselves were from a little further up North and not natives of Auckland, but seemed comfortable enough there.

Aside from this chance meeting, little else happened, a few days before our departure we ceased going down to breakfast, having been asked whether or not we still got the breakfast for free. We were sure we did... She went to check and was ages. We waited in awkward silence. We had to go and ask if it was okay to eat. It was. We didn't go down for breakfast again. Instead we stayed in our room and watched as the Kiwi's lost the America's Cup...

We left a few days later and were on our way to Warkworth. We were excited. We were about to start our first helpx. We had corresponded with Val a lot and knew that we were going to be welcomed warmly by her. Of course we were nervous, and still pretty homesick, but we had a hunch we would be well looked after. For those of you that don't know what helpxing is, it's volunteering. We volunteer our help for bed and board. While we still, so far have brought our own food whilst living with her, she cooks and prepares the main meals. Choice!

We arrived in the picturesque little town of Warkworth, and having been quickly reminded of several small similar towns back home we figured, yeah, we'd be quite at home there. We were greeted by a grinning woman dressed in purple and donning a red hat. She had warned us that she would be in such attire as she didn't want to frighten us. She's a Red Hat. A member of a WI fund raising group. She was lovely and made us feel at home immediately. She quickly began to share local news and information with us and was really and truly interested in what we were like as people.

I think we disappointed her with our lack of interests and hobbies. Guilty of boringness we tried to think of things that might make us a little more interesting. Naturally we came up blank.

Here we again had a bout of homesickness. It's difficult, but we're hoping that things will start to get better.

Warkworth was a pretty little riverside town and when we weren't helping Val tidy up her garden a little bit, we were probably walking around the town. In the week staying with her we visited Matakana, a tiny place that had a market going on. We brought waffles. I can't get them out of my head and every place we have been to since, I have been in search of them. I want more!!

Val also took us for a drive to see some of the local sights and for the first time we were really struck by the beauty that is New Zealand. Something we definitely didn't find in Auckland.

We're really looking forward now to seeing more of the country, and it's beautiful sights. But for now we're off to Hamilton.

Family

Although it's true I do owe you two other posts concerning our stay in both Auckland and Warkworth I feel it my duty to provide you a word from the only recently wise. And while I claim to be semi wise in this matter, I do not claim to be so in any other.

Let me put this blog into perspective: I'm in New Zealand and will be here for four months, at which point I - or we, I should say considering I'm travelling with my sister... - will move on to America for a month where we will be visiting multiple different Cities and states. I am travelling only her and as of two weeks in, we have made no particular friends, and although are saying with a lovely lady in her home have made no special bonds with any other people. I know I need to give it time, especially considering both of our dispositions to be rather quite reserved and shy, it is admittedly going to take a long time for us to make friends with anyone. I know this. I always knew this. What I didn't intend, through the desire not to think about it, is our tendency to bicker and my need for solitude. Which is fine when you're in a big city, or somewhere you are familiar with, you can just take yourself off for a walk, or shut yourself in your room and listen to some rage music, until your anger simmers down and your ready to silently forgive each other as siblings often do.

When you are travelling with them, however, and you're in a small town with very little to do. I can be difficult to escape the "sort your face out" or "I'm going to punch you in a minute" comments. Which are occasionally hurtful, or irritating because you weren't aware there was anything wrong with your face, you were just in a world of your own...

Don't worry by the way, we haven't fallen out badly recently, they're more often five minute spats with the equal timer of simmering down. But they are comments I have heard often.

The problem is, my solitude is something I treasure, but if we are in a small town, I can't get it because we are both so bored that we can't be bothered to separate because we assume one of us will amuse the other, if only for a short time.

If you're in a bigger city, the likely-hood that you're going to be staying in a hostel (at least on our budget) is incredibly high, what does that mean, you'll be sharing a room with however-many-or-so complete strangers. Wonderful considering my tendency toward social awkwardness and clamming up like a oyster around people, a small voice in my head saying "don't say that, they'll think you're a moron" until you finally gather the courage, open your mouth to comment and realise they have already changed topic. I never could keep up.

All of this and more has slowly lead me to realise:

One can never anticipate how much they will miss home. Their family, their friends and even their beds. While my bed isn't particularly that comfortable, it is missed. As is my cat, but oh god don't I may have to start crying!

I miss my home. I miss being able to do whatever I want and no one criticise me for it. Why can't I stay in my room and sleep if that's what I want to do?
Oh yeah, because I have flown half way across the world to explore a country I thought I knew something about, but in fact knew so little about I feel guilty that I am actually here when there are other people that probably deserve this opportunity more. Having said all this makes me sound so ungrateful for this amazing chance, but you mustn't think that. It isn't that I do actually want to sit around doing nothing while five months fly past in a blur, but it's more that even if I did want to, I couldn't without being judged or criticised. I do want to explore and be awed and amazed. But I want to do it with someone who will help me appreciate it more. I want to do it with my family and my friends, and not have to feel guilty or sad that I don't get to share it with them in the flesh. Photographs and Skype calls don't make up for the lack of hugs or casual conversations held by the kettle as you wait for it to boil.

I'm almost waiting for this adventure to start.
But that isn't how it works.
I'm supposed to go and find it.

Maybe I'm looking for something else.
I'm living in the future, keep thinking, only four and a half months till I get to see my family again... Hopefully next week the adventure will kick start and we'll really start doing things. It's getting hotter here too so that will hopefully make things a little better too. After that I will get too busy to miss home.

Love you guys.

The Flight

Evening all,

So, I have done it. I am in Auckland City, New Zealand with my sister. Quite frankly, I can't believe it's happening. It just seems still so surreal. We're finally here. And I'm so glad of it after twenty-two hours of travelling, not including the two hour stop in Dubai airport and the one hour stop in Sydney airport. Running on little to no sleep I was just happy to have my feet firmly back on pavement slabs and with a warm bed waiting for me on the other side of town. Joy. 

We started at Heathrow, which was admittedly my favourite airport, probably because I wasn't so tired that I could do something other than sit with a grumpy look on my face and wish that I was sleeping. Oh yeah, I'm one of those charmers sat in an airport. (We must bare in mind people, that I had only had four hours the night before and, my time, it was about four in the morning and I hadn't slept on the plane. Grand.) Going through security was fine, the only pain in the ass was that I had to completely unwrap my laptop from its soft case - which is a niggle too tight - and its hard shell, which was a massive pain in the ass when you're still trying to hold onto the rest of your hand luggage - two books, a note pad, some food and whatever else I threw in before leaving the house in the usual rush (never a good way to start a journey) a hoodie and joy of joys a rain coat that keeps insisting on dragging along the floor. Thank you gravity.

As I say, Heathrow was fine. The flight to Dubai was pretty good looking back, I watched a number of films, one being Charade with Hepburn and Grant, you know the one in Pretty Woman where Julia Roberts is waiting for Richard Gere as he plays the piano for people he doesn't know because somehow, it's more comfortable. Sorry, I'm rambling. But that one was good. There was an attempt at sleep but it went no where and I ended up watching bed nobs and broom sticks, watching the sunrise just before we reached Dubai Airport.

For the record, the sunrise was absolutely beautiful. A strip of red above the still dark sand with did literally phase into every single colour. I believe we saw a green strip amongst the red, orange, yellow and blue. It was fantastic and I wish I had gotten a photo, but alas, I did not.

When we did reach Dubai though, we were parched and, having forgotten the PIN to our cards, we ended up having to take some money out - or at least I did, I got scammed into that one, dehydrated and in desperate need of water. We brought about two litres of water and a can of coke each, only to find when we went down to the departure lounge that we couldn't carry it on the plane, so we guzzled and discovered that we were not sat together for the next 13 hour flight. Neither of us expected to sleep. Suffice it to say, neither of did particularly, sat beside strangers and watching disney films, old films, musicals and other such. I may now tick Star Trek: Into Darkness off my list. (I would convey my thoughts but am running low on time as I'm supposed to be making dinner. Oops. I shall only say this: Not. Enough. Bones. On. My. Screen.)

To Sydney. Our disembarking delayed by a Customs officer climbing aboard because one bright spark figured it'd be a good idea to have a cigarette in the loos. Don't know who as I missed the action taking a turn about the plane in attempt not to lose all feeling in my legs. 13 hours, is just too long.

Sydney was quick, and luckily we were able to grab seats together as the plane was less crowded, phew. In comparison the flight was short and I found myself missing the end of the film as we jolted back to land and into the country of New Zealand. Our final destination.

We were here. But I was feeling as sick as a dog at this point and could barely keep my eyes open as we got a bus to the centre of town and made our way to our hotel. The first leg of the journey is done. The flights were over. All that comes now is home sickness, jet lag and the adventure of a life time.

Feminism

So, I was scrolling through Charlie Brooker's Guardian page, catching up on columns that I have missed, and secretly agree with, most of the time even if I hypocritically do whatever he happens to be complaining about this week.

For some reason, unbeknownst to me, I decided to look at the comments, which I find myself doing more and more recently.

Why do I give a shit whether or not people liked that article, or agreed with it?

I don't.

Which is the simple fact of the matter. I've even started doing it on Twitter and Facebook. But I don't care about what that person thinks or says about that other comment. It's all a mass confusion of words, used by people that can't spell and don't know how to use punctuation. 

So, imagine my fury when, as a relatively stubborn and slightly feminist female, my feelings on seeing a comment about feminism being an act of hostility toward men. 

Let me make one thing clear. 

Feminism is the ism of making women men's equals. 

We, or I (not wanting to speak for the collective) don't pick on men because they are male and I am not, nor do I pick on men because I wish I was. I pick on men or "find fault in" them because most of them are bloody idiots.

There is no need to believe that a woman, that happens to be a feminist, finding fault in a man has anything to do with her views on feminism unless she states as such. Not only that but the man believing that said woman is finding fault with man and not just pointing out the obvious is very insulting.

Can I also point out that just because a woman is a feminist doesn't mean that she is against men. Reiterating point of being for equality!

The saddest thing about this whole rant is that in its most basic form is about acceptance of genitalia.

Can you believe that something so basic and simple, and something that can't really be changed completely, is what sets a part an entire society? Something that is ingrained within us since the moment we are born. In fact even before, when your parents decide what colour they want to paint your room, what colour your blanket will be. What overgrow to get. The blue or the pink?

I don't dislike men. In fact I consider a few of them friends. That doesn't mean that if they are sexist or derogatory, I won't give them a smack (let's face it, I'm more likely to under said circumstances). The simple fact of the matter is that they are just easy targets. The same way I suppose, that women are easy targets for them.

I won't claim that I'm one of those women that will get touchy over every sexist comment. I suppose it depends on context.

It's a tricky and complex topic that must be handled with care. And I suppose it depends on who you are talking to and how you handle it.

Some things aren't funny. Many make my blood boil.

Why must a woman get attacked with abuse for posting anything remotely feminist? She gets slaughtered because that is the world that we live in.

What the hell sort of society is this? 

The next step

There are many steps in life, some are big and some are little. All of which lead to decisions and painful paperwork processes. Most of the time.

I seem to have hit a point in my life that will determine the rest of it. I have finished education. And it seems at the moment, for good. And it's scary. My life as I know it is over. Despite the fact that I know things will be relatively calm for a while, what with this trip coming up my days are being filled with plans for that. Which is amazing and exciting and so unbelievably surreal that I can't seem to concentrate on it. I leave in two months, but it feels like a year. But what happens when I get back.
What then?

I'm at a crossroads. Again. And I'm certain I'll come to many more. We all have to make important and life changing decisions. Not the everyday what shirt shall I wear today, but the 'Turn Left' kind of decision that will change the future.

We all feel lost from time to time. And it isn't hard to put our fears, concerns and worries into perspective. But then, we all have those moments of utter selfishness in which we are the most important people in the world. And as egotistic human beings, at some point or other, we are. To us, we are the most important people in the world. Of course we care for others and have moments of clarification in which we realise that we are a spec, less than such, on the surface of the Earth, doing more damage than good.

But enough. There is more than the next step ahead.
It's a doorway.
A light.
A journey.

The Hobbit Review.

Also for my journalism assignment I was asked to write a the Hobbit review, I really tried to be objective so here is another Hobbit rant, but not because I was good. It better be alright, took me forever and a half! 

Out of all the films in the world, the genre I find hardest to find is that of fantasy. For a firm fantasy lover there just don’t seem to be enough of said genre out there to enjoy. Whether filmmakers are frightened of their grandeur or whether they just are not the favoured genre, I don’t know. Be that as it may, let it be stated that I was more than happy to hear that Peter Jackson has returned to direct and produce the adaptation of JRR Tolkien’s ‘The Hobbit’. Perhaps all that makes me slightly biased but I shall force myself to be objective for your benefit.

There have been a lot of conflicting views about The Hobbit – An Unexpected Journey. Originally the film was supposed to be split into two films, seemingly stretching the 300-page book over about four hours, and this decision was made more understandable when rumours of the sub-plots began to emerge, from the material supplied by Tolkien in his Appendices. Providing me, at least, with a firm belief that there would be more than enough material to fill out the pair. But then it was announced there would be three, to make a trilogy. I have no problem with this, but I can understand the points of those who do. For this to happen there would have to be a great deal of more material placed in and, most likely, the expansion of well known chapters of the novel.

So, we re-enter the fantastical world of Middle-Earth sixty years before the more famous and darker epic, The Lord of the Rings, takes place. Once again we are provided with an amazing opening sequence, where we learn the history of the stolen Kingdom of Erebor, found in the Lonely Mountain and of the tragic back story of the ruggedly good-looking and vengeful ‘King-Under-the-Mountain’ Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage.) And we find ourselves back outside Bag-End where we are re-introduced to some old friends and have a little fun before we get down to the heavier details.

And so the adventure begins and the trek across the beautiful land begins, where Martin Freeman (Sherlock’s John Watson) is given the frequent opportunity to prove that he is the perfect man for the job of playing Bilbo– recently awarded MTV’s best hero award as voted by tweeters – and that Peter Jackson was right to go to such effort to attain his time. His comic timing is fantastic and his British humour proves him again and again to belong in the role; while still proving himself to be the perfect hero for this lighter epic (than it’s predecessor anyway). While you may worry that you’ll be caught up in the little jabs of humour, Freeman still conveys the seriousness of his role; he is the classic example of tentative hero, battling brawn with brains in more cases than one - including his encounter with the reprising Gollum (Andy Serkis).

We mustn’t forget, however, in the midst of all this riding, fighting and walking, we are dealing with thirteen – unseen in the already existing trilogy of the Lord of the Rings – new characters, let alone our very complex little hero and the mischievous wizard in the form of Gandalf (reprising Ian McKellen), all of whom deserve a decent amount of characterisation. Speaking of which, it is hard not to be impressed by the diversity of dwarf that Peter Jackson has managed to create, each having their own personal style and characteristic that defines them in the eyes of viewers.

And though many have reviewed it as being slow, I didn’t once find myself wondering if it was over yet and it certainly doesn’t feel stretched, as though someone has scraped butter over too much bread. I know that I wouldn’t cut out a second of it, and there wouldn’t be any need to. Every extra piece of story Jackson has included comes directly from Tolkien’s Appendices, which provide more than enough butter for slice of white or brown. Similarly, concerning the marmite of the controversial 48fps (double the amount of frames per second usually used) only makes Tolkien’s world seem more real.

The Hobbit is sassy and fun and still remains a serious epic and I for one can’t wait for the next edition in the trilogy. Was making the novel The Hobbit into film a mistake?

No. 

Things to do in New Zealand

So I have been writing a lot for journalism at the moment and I thought I might treat you to one because it's pretty relevant to my person, so here you go you luck beans 

Things To Do In New Zealand

North Island

1-Sail in Auckland

The City of Sails

Set sail from the beautiful harbour if Auckland, on a Pride of Auckland yacht, specially made for the purpose of passing on the local experience. From here you can view the sights of the city from the sheltered sea of “boating paradise.”

Prices start from $75NZD - £41.39 pp.

2-Visit Matamata

The Home of the Hobbits

Not far from Auckland sits the rural town of Matamata, just outside sits a large and beautiful farm, featuring rolling green hills and little holes under the ground, closed with multicoloured circular doors. Sounding familiar? Take a tour around Hobbiton and explore the set as seen in the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

Prices start from $75NZD - £41.39 pp.

3-The Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest – Rotorua

One of nature’s greatest achievements

This is the perfect place to take part in an activity. Famous for its natural beauty Whakarewarewa forest is located just five minutes from the centre of Rotorua’s city. Here you can get go on a walk, have a picnic, hire a bike or go horse riding, the list goes on and all surrounded by the spectacular Californian Redwoods.

Entry to the forest is completely free.

4-Waitomo Cave - Waitomo

See Glowworms in their natural habitat

Explore metres of unbelievable cave structure where thousands of Glowworms radiate their magical backsides as you’re guided through the area by an expert who’ll convey the history of the caves and take you on a boat ride beneath the fairy-like-lights of ‘Glowworm Grotto’. Unparalleled in beauty it’ll blow you away.

Prices start from $48NZD - £26.39 pp.

5-Visit Taupo

Home of the ‘Great Lake’

Found in the centre of the North Island, Taupo offers a multitude of free activities that will help with keeping in budget. Here you can visit the thundering Huka Falls, relax in the Spa Park Hot Pools created by a naturally hot river that fills the many pools. Walk along the river and experience New Zealand’s beauty.

Entrance to the area? Free.

6-Visit Rotorua  

Experience a Zorb Tumble or visit a Maori Village

Visit Rotorua and experience its fantastic sights. Jump in a Zorb ball and feel the thrill of the ‘Zobit’ (dry) or the ‘Zydro’ (wet) depending on your preference. Alternatively visit the Maitai Maori village and experience multiple ceremonies and performances; be guided on a bush walk and experience a Glowworm tour. For a little extra you can also see the beauty of Rainbow Spring’s by night.

Zorb $45 (individual prices) - £24.74 pp.

Maori Village $106NZD - £58.29 pp. (inc. Beauty By Night tour $136NZD - £74.78)

7-The Museum of New Zealand - Wellington

Te Papa Tongarewa

Here is a little somewhere you can visit that would take up a few spare hours. The Te Papa museum located in the country’s capital – Wellington, has many fascinating exhibitions for you to explore, giving you the perfect opportunity to learn a little more about the country, it’s culture, history and greatest treasures.

Entry to the museum is free!

*Bonus*

While you’re in Wellington check out the Lord of the Rings movie tours, an essential for fans.

Prices start from $45 - £24.74 pp.

8-Te Mata Peak – Hawke’s Bay

The perfect place for a long hike

Yet another place to take in the breath-taking views this country offers, Te Mata Peak, in Napier, is the perfect place for you to hike, drive or cycle over. Here you can take a break from the cities and just relax in the tranquillity of quiet. It’s the ideal if you want to loose yourself in the magnificence of the mountains.

Free entry.

9-Tongariro Crossing – Tongariro National Park

Visit the sparkling emerald lakes

On this mountain you can discover a multitude of colour; from the red crater at the very peak to the glistening emerald lakes found on the mountainside. It’s a bit of a hike to the very top, not something you’ll want to attempt in jeans and Converses anyway (but even you could reach Soda Springs) but for the hikers among you, if you can, the awesome colours are just… wow.

Entrance to the park is free.

10-Te Puia – Rotorua

Maori Geothermal Reserve

Here you can visit a Maori geothermal reserve. Experience the hot springs and get a good look at the Maori weaving and carving schools. Guided by those that can track their families involvement in the area back decades, they’ll treat you to age old stories, as you encounter New Zealand’s natural spectacles, including boiling mud pools, geysers and a look at the country’s national bird – the Kiwi.

Prices start from $47.40 - £25.97pp.

South Island

1-Fox Glacier – West Coast

Fox Trot: Half-Day Walk

Fox Glacier is one of the most easily accessed glaciers in the world and one of the few you don’t have to fly in a helicopter to get to. This tour will allow you to spend at least an hour on the ice itself and the company will provide you with all the gear you’ll need to complete the trek. It’s a fantastic opportunity that will allow you to experience the magnitude of nature’s power.

Price for individual adult: $115.00NZD -  £63.09

2-Lake Wakatipu - Queenstown

Lightning bolt shaped lake

This lake is the third largest in the World and because of its unusual shape under goes a transformation every twenty-five minutes, rising and falling like a heartbeat, or so the legend goes, of a monster named Matau, sleeping under the surface. As expected a walk or cycle ride would give you spectacular views. Besides, how many people do you know that have taken a stroll beside a lightning bolt of clear water.

Entry free.

3-One of the ‘Great Walks’

The Milford Track

There are six of the nine ‘Great Walks’ in the South Island of New Zealand, including the Routeburn, Rakiura, Kelper and Milford tracks. The Milford is the most famous of the nine because the route surrounds the sound of the same name. Most of these walks you can do independently (or with a guide for a price) but you’ll have to organise somewhere to stay along the way as many of them require a few days.

Prices depend on route and season.

4-Ohau Waterfall Walk - Kaikoura

See the frolicking seal pups

The Ohau waterfall walk is a short one but is a place of fun and majesty. A place where you can watch the seal pups in their natural habitat having an absolute ball in the water. Not only can you get up as close as you want to the little ones but you can also enjoy the peace and beauty of the waterfall itself.

Entrance - not a dollar.

5-Whale Watching – Kaikoura

View the majesty of the largest mammals on Earth

Here is an absolute must. Can you imagine the magnitude of these creatures? Well imagine no more, here you can see it for your self. The trip includes a video about the animals themselves and their survival in the icy depths of the ocean as you wait, spending up to two and a half hours on the water, searching.

Individual Adult $145NZD - £79.43

6- Milford Sound – Fiordland

Rent a kayak and experience the sound close and personal

Said to be the best way to experience the famous sound, kayaking will allow you the freedom and ability to traverse the water with a certain intimacy you wouldn’t get on a cruiser. Have your skin kissed by waterfalls, move alongside resident dolphins, seals and/or penguins.

Prices start from $115NZD - £63.09

7-Rangitata River – Canterbury

White-water raft the Rangitata

White-water raft in the incredible landscape of the Southern Alps. Choose from either the gentle lower graded Fun Lower Rangitata or face the madness of Rangitata Gorge – grades 1-5! Pair the overwhelming scenery and the excitement of the rapids. If you want to skip the 5 you’re welcome to sit it out and rejoin as the water settles a little. Everyone wins.

The Fun Lower Rangitata - Grade 1-2 - $165NZD – 90.39

The Spectacular Rangitata Gorge – Grade 1-5 – fr. $208NZD -£113.95

8-Blue Penguin Colony – Oamaru

The World’s smallest penguins

Here you can watch the worlds smallest penguins go about their daily business. During the day there area is a little quieter but you are always welcome to join a guided tour to view the behind the scenes work that occurs to protect the species. Then again you can always visit at night and watch the penguins returning home after a hard day’s fishing.

Prices start from $12NZD - £6.57

9-Visit Queenstown

Welcome to Adrenaline Central.

If you fancy trying your hand at bungee jumping, skydiving, zip wiring, skiing, snowboarding or hiking over the Remarkables this is the place for you. And for all the Lord of the Ringers, you can also join a tour that will take you down the ‘Anduin River’ (Kawarau Gorge) and provide you with a tour of the beautiful country that made Middle-Earth.

Tours start at $95NZD - £52.04 (inc. Bungee $275NZD- £150)

Skydive – fr. $269 - £147.36

10- Hokitika Gorge Reserve

Scenic reserve and gorge

One of the most breathtaking sights you will ever come across comes in the form of this scenic reserve. You’ll be amazed at the colour of the water you find here, almost luminescent turquoise it seems almost fantastical. And the gorge itself is as breathtaking as the water below it. An easy walk and/or drive it’s the perfect place to spend a day; simple reiterating the renowned beauty of the country.

For More information and prices visit our website www.fmpdriftermag.co.uk

We Wants It Precious.

I've had this post lined up for a while now and originally I was going to give you a little background information as well as some pictures, but I have no thoughts in my head and I'm uber bogged down with work as it is coming up to the last days of my education, more on that in another post when I have more time. So for now here are the things inspiring me to keep going.

A blue triumph motorbike, I saw one with racing stripes once and ever since I have wanted one, possibly not the best thing for me, highly prone to accidents, to get into but doesn't stop the want. 

I want to go to New Zealand, and I am! In September, but I really want to have a good time and it won't be as easy to if I can save enough money to be comfortable there, at the moment I have zero chance of doing so and I really don't want to not be, I want to enjoy myself and not worry about how the hell I'm going to feed myself the next day.

A jaguar e-type. I don't know what it is about classic cars but something about them... I don't know its weird and probably only explainable in my head so I won't try, all the same... *sigh*

I know it's cliche, but I really want a typewriter, and one that works so that I can actually use it if I want to. I know I know, but I've wanted one for forever and a half. 

They are the big things anyway, I may come back again at some point and put a few of the littler things on her, but yeah, I have big asks, but I'm only asking myself for them so I suppose it isn't such a big deal is it? 

Been Busy.

So, I'm sorry I haven't posted in a while, life I must admit seems to have been a little hectic as of late and I have been blogging here for my journalism project. So I'm afraid I'm a little busy to talk about anything interesting but you can have the article I wrote the other day for my FMP (Final Major Project) it took a lot of research and a lot of pain on my part so enjoy. 

The Haunting Trip Around Britain

Summer is coming and for some, it is the last large amount of time you may spend with your friends, either because you (or they) are about to leave for university, or you are about to part from your uni friends for the summer. Either way, or the way of another, summer is the best time to spend with friends and what better way, especially if you don’t want to – or can’t afford to – go abroad, than to spend your summer with friends travelling across Britain in search of ghosts. Plunge yourselves into a hunt you’ll never forget.

The Red Lion – Avebury, Wiltshire

This Inn, situated within the Avebury Stone Circle, is renowned for its haunting. Almost as famous as Stonehenge, the Avebury Stone Circle has long been associated with paganism and witchcraft. It’s very fair to say that the wandering spirits in this area are not afraid to interact with the living and the Red Lion is the perfect place to witness the cold spots; the phantom woman whose body was left in the, now glass covered, well and the noise of clattering horses’ hooves in the courtyard late at night.

Glamis Castle – Angus, Scotland

This beautiful castle, situated in enchanting Scotland, was once home to the Queen Mother and is said to be haunted by many; one of which being the imaginatively named ‘Grey Lady’. The spirit of a once great Lady, burned as a witch many years ago, has been said to appear in many areas of the castle. Also been seen is a tongue-less woman that looks out from a barred window; a, poorly treated, little black servant boy, said to haunt the hallway outside of the Queen’s bedroom and other, more infamous ghosts of Earls that famously haunt the halls of their castle.

£9.50 (Concession) - £10.75 (Adult)

Kitty Jay’s Grave – Dartmoor, Devon

Years ago a young servant girl fell in love and fell pregnant out of wedlock. Suffering with the shame of her situation and rejection, the poor young girl hung herself to escape the humiliation of going to the poor house. Because of this, Kitty Jay’s soul was believed to be restless and so, because of her suicide, and as was tradition, was buried at a crossroads and there she remains. What is strange, however, is that every morning since fresh flowers are found laid atop the grave. And no one has ever managed to capture the culprit.

The Tower of London – London

Probably the most obvious place in which to search for ghosts, but where better than the very venue many spent the last few days of their lives, preparing themselves for their appointment with the hangman’s noose or the executioner’s axe. There is a never-ending list of spirits that have been seen drifting through the corridors and courtyard of the tower including – the second wife of Henry VIII – Anne Boleyn, Thomas Becket and Walter Raleigh.

£18.50 (Concession) - £21.45 (Adult)

Pendle Hill

Walk to the beautiful Pendle Hill and experience a haunting unimaginable, a place that even ‘Most Haunted’ physics have taken strong interest in. According to legend it is the site where ten supposed witches were hung by their necks until dead. Victimised by the cruelty of James 1^st obsession with witch-hunting, the women were killed and are said to still roam the earth, haunting the hill and town – where at least one is supposedly buried – in which they were so cruelly persecuted. No need to go on a tour to feel the presence here.

Hangman’s Hill Ghost Walk – Epping Forest, Essex

To this list the Hangman’s Hill ghost walk must be added. This brilliant hunt has left many a member feeling, uneasily, that they are not alone, with many having been touched or even pushed as they walk. With the accompanying mediums battling to communicate with the various spirits that are said to haunt every step, a young girl, a reckless runner that threatens every passing car and a headless horseman dwelling in the trees’ shadows. This walk is not to be missed, beautiful and almost undeniable.

£12.50

Culloden Moor – Inverness, Scotland

This moor is the tragic resting place of thousands of Jacobean Britons, having spent their last moments there, fighting for their lives in the bloody Battle of Culloden. Soldiers killed and prisoners brutally slaughtered, by order of the, then, Duke of Cumberland, are said to return every anniversary, 16 April, causing the moor to echo with the anguished screams of the spirits, forced to relive the horror of their torture. 

Llancaiach Fawr Manor – Caerphilly, Wales

This beautiful Tudor Manor house has long been described as the most haunted house in Wales. With the tour being conducted by (acting) citizens of the English Civil War continually convince you of the caught-in-time sense that the rooms convey, many of which are said to contain presence that have affected visitors, so much so that some have simply burst into tears. If you want to experience the perfect ghost hunt you can even attend a two-course meal and receive an introduction to paranormal research before walking the corridors hunting for the lost spirits.

Tour - £13.50 Meal - £23.50

Ghosts and Legends Red Coat Tour – Exeter, Devon

Tour the beautiful Roman City, acclaimed as one of the most haunted cities in the country, completely free! Visit the haunting gothic Cathedral, supposedly the home to a nun that haunts the yard, find apparitions from the English Civil War and victims of the infamous witch-hunts. More than enough to get that chill running down your spine and the hairs rising on the back of your necks.

Berry Pomeroy Castle – Totness, Devon

Home to yet another ‘White Lady’ this castle holds yet more tragedy. Believed to be Margret Pomeroy, the ‘White Lady’ was the victim of her jealous sister, for sharing her love for an unnamed man and imprisoned in the dungeons as punishment. Similarly, the ‘Blue Lady’, an unnamed female that haunts the grounds, beckons visitors away from the safety of the castle ruins, the result of which is unknown.

£3.80 

The Fanny Pack

So I'm leaving the country in seven months. *Inner Scream* So naturally I've been trying to do my homework but obviously having zero money it isn't inspiring knowing that this time next year I'm going to be beyond penniless. So I have decided that I'm taking a backpack, more than that I hardly know, but, whilst looking I found one of these (drum roll please) :

Look at that bad boy. Sorry to sound so common. But wow. I mean why? Why on earth would you buy one of these things? I shouldn't call it a fanny pack, not being American and all, however, call it what you will, this is one of the most unattractive inventions in the history of the universe. It isn't like I have massive issues with fashion and I think we can all assume that I don't have great fashion sense, however, this ^^ Unacceptable. I know they can probably keep your things safe, but surely there is a better way than this. I don't feel that any situation can validate the need for the presence of a bum bag. I just can't. And I'm sorry if I'm offending anyone I don't mean to, honestly I don't that isn't what I do here, what I do do however, is convey my personal opinion and explore my impossible to fathom thoughts. For example what is this?! Why? Who thought that this would be a good thing to have?

Anyway, majority of rant concerning fanny pack over, I also looked at backpacks, as I have decided that that form of bag would be a good idea for the extensive amount of travel that I will take part in, especially considering I will be moving over the whole of New Zealand, and then in America, I can just hide it. Unfortunately for my sister however, I have never wanted more than at the moment to really explore the island, not just the cities and a few trips into the mountains, I want to walk up one, I want to camp under the stars and, god damn it, I want to explore, I want to have an adventure. But I don't think that my sister would be overly up for that, then again I figure that if I can get her to bungee jump then maybe I can get her to sleep under the stars, only for one night, and it would be free.

I suppose my main issue with the above is that it doesn't really offer anymore protection for your belongings any other bags, especially if you're one of those silly beans that wear it behind you, you might as well wear a rucksack. Not only that, they are just as easy to steal, even if your wearing it, even I can release a buckle like the one above. It isn't hard. 

Please people, hear my plea. No fanny packs, bum bags or otherwise. Please. 


Disclaimer: None of these pictures are mine. Same goes for previous post and header. 

Inspire Me.

Waiting for inspiration.

I've been sat staring at this blank page for a while. It's all well and good telling yourself that you'll start up a blog and post every how ever many days weeks or months. But when it actually comes down to it,  where exactly are we supposed to find the inspiration, how do we know what to write about? I'm afraid I'm simply not one of those people who write blogs to complain about their lives, how little money they have or their coursework load, I like my blogs to have a little bit of a point. I mean, those topics may come up under another subject but I'm not going to dedicate an hour of my time, complaining to a blank screen about things that are unimportant in the grand scheme of things.

Inspiration, however, I feel is an entirely different matter. The lacking of inspiration is something I battle with tooth and nail every day. From doing an assignment in college, to writing a blog, to writing a story. What do I do my final project on for journalism? What do I write my Language coursework about? What shall I write about in my blog? How do I introduce this character? Everyone deals with their struggles in their own way, and maybe its purely a subjective thing. Surely everyones mind works differently, we all work to our own needs. Walking, I have found, is often my salvation when suffering from a lack of inspiration. Because what better time to think?

I spend a lot of time by myself, because life, I find, is easier that way. Sounds depressing I know, I'm not saying I don't like spending time with my friends, because I do, of course I do, they wouldn't be my friends otherwise. What I find difficult is spending time with people who make me feel uncomfortable and awkward. People who point out that I don't talk when there are more than three people in a group, (because if we all talked at the same time it would be a nightmare) people that think I'm rude when I don't mean to be. I try, honestly I do, maybe not as hard as I ought, but I'm often guided a lot by my first impressions of people and if I'm with a friend that is being friendly, the likelihood of me being friendly too increases ten-fold. I spend time by myself because I have a lack of people skills - probably because of my dad - I'm shy and awkward and I don't work well surrounded by bodies. People stifle my inspiration methods. If you're surrounded, you can't think, and I need to think.

So there you have it. My way of gaining inspiration. Walking alone, be it just down the street, along the river or (as I so rarely do - much to my distain) take a walk in a wooded area, which I find provides quite a plethora (good word - plethora) of inspiration and 'mind palace' space. The only places I have been walking as of late, however, are to and from college and the occasional walk along the river. Which is possibly why I seem to be failing in the inspiration front at the moment. For the life of me I can't seem to be able to concentrate on anything. Not even my stories can manage to hold my interest. I have worked on about five stories since the year started, granted I've been a bit busy with deadlines and coursework, but I just can't stick with one. I keep getting new idea's starting one and then getting stuck a few pages in. It's actually very disappointing. The only thing I have been able to stick to doing is reading my 'Band Of Brothers' book, which I only started last week. So I feel the need to go on a solitary walk through the woods. But alas, I have no where to go and no way of getting there. So is the extent of my pity party.

I suppose inspiration often comes in this form, a mapping of ideas and working your way through, it isn't like this blog has been particularly focused. I think it's important to gather many idea's and develop them with inspiration after the initial hit. I think I'm trying to gather some from reading this book, but I think it's likely I'll gather more after I watch the series, which I am starting with my friend tomorrow. I've been begging her for days just to let me watch it, but she has forbidden me. (It's quite scary actually.) So yeah, thats the plan for the weekend and then Sunday I shall be going over my Language coursework and basically starting from scratch because mine sucks. Luckily, for that I already have my inspiration and know where to go (roughly) with it. The only problem is, I have pretty much just wasted a first draft. Bit of a bummer.

Not only that but I have to find a job to fund my travels, which I depart on in just over seven months, what!? Which means I need to get planning and get saving. And that, ought to be pretty inspirational.

Previously in my life.

So, I don't know what to write about be prepared for blabble (for those that are interested yes I spelt that wrong on purpose)... So previously in my life (thank you Miranda Hart) not a lot has happened, wrote a one shot for my friends Christmas present which we still haven't exchanged because of postage issues. It's only a fanfiction though and I'm not very happy with so I feel some serious editing coming on if you don't Exchange then soon, oh dear hope she doesn't read this, wouldn't that be a spoiler... I started another story that I had a idea for ages ago and started on my previous blog that I abandoned shortly after because of exams and summer and all the other excuses you can have for giving up a blog. I suppose I just got out of the habit. The reason, however that I decided not to return to it and made a new one was because I was looking through it and it was way too emotional and depressive... So anew we begin. 

Returning to previous subject before tangent, as I so often do, I quickly gave up on that story finding it too difficult to engage with, probably because it was just you average romance, no death, no fighting, no fantasy, so instead I decided to return to a story that I began last ages ago and continued with it. Have written about five pages since when last Tuesday I do believe, but I don't know, and for me chats quiet good considering I had an exam and have coursework deadlines looming darkly before me. Ugh.
Speaking of which I am literally writing this in class, supposed to be researching sports magazines but I have finally had a stoke of inspiration, so I'm rolling with it before I loose it potentially forever. 

So I had to re take an exam last week for literature and I don't think I did very well but it could have been worse I suppose I didn't panic and I suppose that's good, the problem with me is that I can't seem to formulate constructive answers under pressure. Proud of that line. Okay I know, I know. 

Moving on. So this weekend I'm in Plymouth visiting my sister, desperately trying to find motivation to do my coursework for Monday but getting distracted by a series of Criminal Minds, which by the way I've already watched, she has work too but she's not doing it. Bad influence. So now I'm writing this because it requires less thought and effort than my essay. I also have another deadline on Friday for my Journalism coursework that have done so very little of that it's highly likely I will be up until very late o'clock on Thursday night finishing everything. I really don't know how I'm going to get this coursework done for Monday though I'll probably do the majority tomorrow now though, and we should get it done. Please don't do as I do and leave everything to the last minute. I don't do it on purpose. 

What else, oh yes, saw Les Mis on Tuesday, it was good, we've all got to do things to get away from work and the cinema is usually mine. Made me tear up a couple of times and baring in mind the fact that movies very rarely make me cry I'd give it a good double thumbs up. The story is capturing and inspiring, and thats as far as I will go because I don't review very well. (Look at that damned beautiful face.) 

Also started reading Band of Brothers by Steven Ambrose (will probably watch it again when I have the time) but I'm really enjoying it and frankly, I'm quite proud of myself. I don't usually read non-fiction books and when I do I really struggle, but I'm really enjoying this one and feel like I'm doing quite well with it, especially considering I haven't actually read a proper book of my own choice with no other purpose than pleasure since what feels like forever. It's very good, and for any with an interest in Military History, I'd give it a read. 

Had a thousand billion ideas for stories but can't write fast enough to write them when I want, so thats a constant pain. (Look at their damned beautiful faces.) Seriously though, it is immensely inspiring and to every single soldier that fought for freedom for us, I take my hat off to you. Thank you. 

Anyway, this blog has taken me like over a week to write so I'm just going to post it and hope you don't judge me forever for its poor quality and promise that the next one will be better. 

Georgie.. 

Not even trying to be objective:

Concerning The Hobbit.

Before I start I would just like thank theonering.net for providing me with the information and inspiration I have used and needed. If you want to read their original article that provided me with such here is the link: http://www.theonering.net/torwp/2013/01/04/68002-death-of-hobbit-at-boxoffice-greatly-exaggerated/
As I'm sure you can gather, I wanted to try to discuss all of this bad press The Hobbit has been getting recently... I'll try my best not to show bias, but knowing me it's likely my opinions will fly from my finger tips without barely a thought placed to them. I might as well get them out there, seems everyone else is.

Now, don't know if this makes any sense at all but it made sense in my head.

First of all I would like to lay down what I know.
One: The 48fps (which, as some of you may know, means that the camera's shot double the usual amount of frames - i.e. still images - per second, supposedly making the film look more realistic) didn't seem to go down so well with a lot of critics. Out of a whole google page I only saw one review that actually rated the higher frame rate.
Two: The Hobbit sales decreased by almost half in the first week of showing and has been described as 'underwhelming'.
Three: The Hobbit is not as 'dead' as critics and others would have you believe.

I think certain critic's are talking a load of ****. I'm sorry, I won't say it again, but I had to get it out.

Okay, first thing's first because it is most recently in my mind, the 48fps issue. I have been to see this film in both 2D and 3D, both, I believe, were in the higher frame rate category. I have seen this film four times which is why I am even allowing myself to even broach this topic, one which is worming its way closer to my heart each time I read a bad review.
Let me give you some background info. I haven't always been a Tolkien fan and if I'm completely honest haven't even finished reading that Return of the King yet (please don't judge me, I've been busy) and though I wouldn't call myself an expert I do know my way around the stories. I have been waiting for this film, I do believe, since the third video blog came out, so for over a year. I forget how long exactly, but it feels like a while. So yes, I got caught up in the hype and I waited outside of the cinema to make sure I could get good seats, I was desperate to see it and like LOTR (Lord of the Rings) every time I see it I spot something else that makes it that little bit more special. And frankly, I think that it is special. Very special.

So many people have been complaining about the increase in fps that even I have noticed, and I'm not particularly in the habit of doing that. One critic I read even said that it made the film look fake and unrealistic. My reply to that is this; it really didn't. The first time I saw it, I barely noticed, and maybe that's no better, but having seen it again, I can only comment that if anything it seems more realistic, and in doing that Peter Jackson has only realised Tolkien's dream further. To create a believable myth or legend for the British. Peter J has immersed us even deeper into this fantastic world where people live for hundreds of years and fly on giant eagles and go on adventures. This higher frame rate has allowed (well if I'm the only one so be it) me to feel for a moment that (I know it sound's cheesy) I'm there too. Ugh, a little disgusted in myself for getting all mushy, but thats not the point. The 48fps has created this kind of gloss that allows you to capture every detail and moment and I really don't see what's wrong with that. I really don't.

Second, now this is where theonering.net come in (thank you, please, thank you, so to you.) The sales. So, The Hobbit viewings dropped 56% in the first weekend. Oh my god the world's going to end. (Strangely enough it was actually the weekend that we were all supposed to die... Moving on.) I'm not going to get into the whole money thing because frankly it goes over my head, but what I can tell you is, every other film that has been financially big this year also 'suffered' similar 'plummets' Skyfall decreased by 53% and The Hunger Games by 61% both of which are considered top films of 2012. So it isn't so bad is it. Not only that but it was the weekend before Christmas, everybody was out shopping for last minute Christmas presents, because that's what people do... *cough cough* (Moriarty every time.) Anyway, the plummet is constantly being compared to that of the Return of the King but you can't compare them. That was over ten years ago, times have changed and as much as I don't want to admit it, it can be a pain to get out to the cinema's sometimes. Not only that but lots of people just don't go to the cinema anymore, I can't tell you how many almost empty screening's I've been to recently, and it is sad, but people get to a stage where they don't see the point, films come out on DVD so quickly nowadays that they might as well wait for it to be released, then they can watch it in their own home, pause it when they need to and sit on a big sofa and be in a carefree environment. No the experience isn't the same but it's starting to get pretty damn close. It doesn't help either that critic's are shelling out bad reviews just because (making a generalised statement) they don't like change.

As a fan it genuinely hurts to see these crappy reviews, so I can't imagine how the cast and crew, that put so much time and effort and love into this film must feel. Critic's don't bother to find anything good about it. I have to wonder if they get kicks out of being cruel, or whether they like to be controversial and go against what many were expecting of them. On the other hand, I suppose it doesn't really matter what the critic's think. Because if all they talk about is the fps and ignore the content then they aren't really reviewing what people like me are most interested in:
- Is it a good story?
- Do I want to know more?
Of course in my case it's a define yes on both accounts. It's you that has to decide whether or not you think it's worth your time and if you've read this I hope you believe that it is. But enough of me, I'll leave you to make you're own judgements.

The New Year.

Somebody asked me yesterday if I was excited for the New Year, and I replied honestly with a "Not really." And a careless shrug. I kid you not I received the strangest look. I think it was a mixture between shock and I don't know, confusion? It wasn't just shock at the fact that I wasn't excited, it was shock at the fact that I had admitted it. Am I supposed to lie and pretend that I care what the date is? It's hardly brutal honesty is it?
"Why not?" She asked with a gasp.
"I don't know, it's only a New Year." I replied, becoming a little nervous with the reaction. I'm not going to get all hyped up about a new day, what's the difference in the long run? If I wanted to make a change desperately, why wait for the 1st January to make it? I admit, perhaps I should be excited for this year. It's a big one. I turn eighteen, I finish college and then I'm off travelling. It will probably be the best year of my life; I am well aware it will be amazing; I know it will, but I have other things on my mind until then. And no, I'm not being ungrateful because I am grateful for the opportunity and the only one I feel I would offend is myself for caring less than I ought... Not only that I don't even have all my tickets yet, once I do, it will probably be more exciting but until then I'm saving furiously and it's very tiring. I don't feel any different.
For me, the new year is like when people ask you if you feel any different after you have a birthday. No. I'm exactly the same as I was yesterday, I just have another day of experience under my belt. I didn't age a year dramatically over night. I haven't grown another foot, nor have a suddenly turned grey, I am exactly the same, I'm simply a different number than I was.
It's the same for the New Year.
But I suppose that if you're going to make goals for yourself it may as well be on an important date so, as everyone else always does I made my resolutions. Making this blog was one. I wanted to really get back into blogging again, I haven't done it for a while, and I can't keep claiming to be a blogger on Twitter if I never blog... See my point? I also wanted to make sure I was in the habit of blogging at least once a fortnight (being that I'm a busy little bee writing and with college and my wild social life) in time for my trip to New Zealand and America in September. (Exciting! Even if it doesn't quite feel it yet.) So, this is what you get, me rambling uncontrollably because I can only do it through type and not speech. (We'll get to that in a different post I'm quite certain.)
The second was/is trying to cut back on the swearing. Although, I don't think it has caught on as of yet... I think my first word of 2013 (Oh, that felt really weird typing that) was taboo. Oops...
Honestly I don't really know how it's going to work but we must try... Should possibly make a swear jar but then, I never have any change, maybe I should make coupons.
Sorry, sorry, changing the subject.
So, this is me blogging. Hopefully my posts will get more interesting than this one, I just wasn't quite sure where to begin so this is what you get. Hello.
I don't know though how this year will go. It's going to be a long one I can feel it. Either that or it will go really bloody quick. What is strange though is that is time next year, I won't be in the country. Always a little odd when you go to the dentist and have to tell them you won't be here for your next appointment and they look at you like you're about to kill yourself. Is it just me or is it just people at the dentist that seem so easily shocked? Maybe it's just me and my lack of excitability and my mysterious persona... Haha. (Sarcasm by the way.)
I think though, that is enough for tonight.
Adieu.