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Wendy Smith
  • Wendy Smith

Wendy Smith

A 51-day adventure by Wendy Read more
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  • Trip start
    February 11, 2024
    Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Day one my retirement holiday

    February 12, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 18 °C
  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Waikaia

    February 13, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 19 °C

    Day two of my trip was good. I decided to buy a Fitbit before I left and even though it is not set up correctly I still want to do some exercise each day. This morning I got my bike off the back of the camper and did 6ks around Waikaia. Not much but a start. I didn't have to give way to anyone! This afternoon I went to Switzers Museum. Small but good. I didn't think I would know anyone and low and behold as soon as I got inside there was a display about John Nugent Wood. This is a relative on my Millard tree. I can't access the tree until I get a different connection to my computer and my hard drive. I also read that in 1930, 2000 sheep had their coats remove by blade shearing. No mean feat.
    The bottle house is not able to be seen by most people because of a leak in the roof.They are working on getting it repaired. Petty amazing building with 20000 bottles being used. So evenly spaced.
    Off to Dunedin in the morning.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler
    Wendy and Bev Field nee Lewis

    Waikaia to Dunedin

    February 14, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

    Left Waikaia just after 10. Stopped in Gore for three things. Got one. Filled up at Clinton with my new McKeown card. The camper was on "E" but no light on. Another step under the belt. Stopped at Waihola for a real fruit ice cream. Super yum. On to Mosgiel and stopped to see two friends from school. Excellent to see them. Very very hot so head to the nzmca park. Very full. Managed to park and Vicky is next to me from Ashburton. She is a motorhome babe heading to a rally at Kaka point for the weekend. Others here are going to the rally. I thought I would sus out the dentist place for my procedure tomorrow but too hot wanted to get settled. Just settled, drink with Vicki and Glenda and now some domestics. Talk tomorrowRead more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Dentist

    February 15, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 13 °C

    All pretty good with the sleeping last night. In the morning did the normal and headed away around 10-15 to my appointment. For those that don't know I was referred to a specialist dentist in Dunedin a year ago. A long time ago I fell of my postie bike and the situation with my mouth related to that. It is ACC but I could have to pay another $1300 still...!!! Bit of a worry driving on the hills to get to the place. No problems in the camper van. Parked on the street at 233 and the place was at 291. Easy walk down the hill. The morning appointment was a consultation to explain the situation and the solution. I have never had any pain or discomfort with it. Seemed a no brainer not to do it when she explained it was a cyst behind my top front teeth. I went back to the camper and read a little and answered a few emails. At 2pm I was back and the procedure started. No pain and she hopes it will be successful. Stitches in my mouth and something like chewing gum over the area. Long list of instructions. The worst no hot drinks and no alcohol for two days! Ice pack hourly. She encouraged me to stay till Tuesday to make sure no problems and get the stitches out before I embark on the next stage of my journey. I am a free agent and don't have to be anywhere so no problem. Like I said I can visit ppl for two hours instead of a flying visit. Not so keen on having so many campervans in such a small space. You will have to wait till tomorrow to see my decision. When I got back I was trying to park my camper in a spot and Glenda said no too close to the next one. She had also sent a txt to see if I was okay. Very caring. So up the other end of the park and being tight she offered to park it for me! I was out of that seat before she could say move over! It was time for me to frozen pea my face! Went down and had a "water" with Glenda and Vicki. They were having a drink. Lovely people. Glenda is from Whangarei, has a very nice camper and also has a Ferrari at home!
    Pleased the mouth is finally sorted - love spending money on things like this - NOT - but you have to do what you have to do. I also got a bill from the tax department this morning! Thanks for reading 😊    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Friday

    February 16, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 18 °C

    Domestic day today. Just continued to find homes for things. I think some are on to there third home. It is getting easier. This park is full of motorhomes and caravans. I think there are 26 spots. So bumper to bumper. Not everyones cup of tea but at least it is safe for a newbee. I was concerned that if I didn't get back early enough I wouldn't get a spot. Once you are in a park you can reserve the space, but, not before you arrive. Hope you get that. The couple next to me said you need cones. Away to Mitre10 to get some. I did put out a chair with a sign on it as they requested in the shed with your rego number and motorhome assn number. When I got back the spot had been taken by someone else. Thankfully another lady arrived at the same time and helped me back in. So much easier. I am happy to ask other people to help. I think it is easier when backing if someone guides me.
    took myself off to the pool today for a lovely long shower and hair wash. Well worth the $4. Bit of trouble getting there with road works and steep hills! Nothing major though. I then went to an old friends house. Not home so left a note and maybe she will contact me. Could be away/moved. Time will tell. Got myself a dash cam. Will I be able to install and work it? My mouth is pain free. My face is a little swollen as the dentist told me. Look forward to having a hot cuppa tomorrow.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler
    1

    Walk in the bush

    February 17, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    A bit of a set back mouth wise today. The bed needed re-made and as you may image it is not like a 'normal' bed. It was quite strenuous and I think I popped a blood vessel by my eye. Immediately put ice on it. Bit of discomfort but not enough for Panadol. The bruising on my lip is coming out.
    Once again we are packed in like sardines. I think some are here because of uni starting. Certainly the couple next to me are. I was able to move today so I have a good spot. Will I say very proud of my parking? I must get better with practise!
    There is a track next to the park so off I went to walk it. How things take time in this camper. Where is my bum bag? Six cupboards and even checked the rear locker to see if it was there. Found it in the end. In the bag in the shower.
    There were three track options to walk. Note to self, ensure you remember which track you are taking. A photo before would be better than at the end of the sign post.
    Great track in town. Bit of a climb. Talked to a young lady from Holland that is here at uni for five months. I think the pics of the stars are when the water is coming down. Saw a lovely waterfall. Just before the end you have to cross the stream. I managed to keep one foot dry. I can understand how people are away longer than they plan. I took it easy a) because no strenuous exercise as my mouth heals b) I am not fit. Enjoyed the walk a lot. May this be the first of many in this holiday.
    This afternoon I was taking it easy and watched a little Netflix on my phone, did some reading.
    Tomorrow I will venture out and see what I can do.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Still in Dunedin

    February 18, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ⛅ 24 °C

    This morning I was in the camper most of the morning. I know there are loads of places I could go but my confidence level in parking is minimal. It will improve I am sure. I have seen the sign to the Chinese Gardens in Dunedin many times and today was when I actually went...!!! Compact but pleased I went. I then popped to the warehouse - I know I can park there! To get some lighter clothes. One good thing about the camper if the weather changes you can put different clothes on to suit the temperature.
    I then went to see a couple that are part of my family tree. I asked about parking and with the hills in Dunedin opted to park on the main road and walk around the corner incase it was too difficult to get out. It's a few years since we have seen one another. Jacquie and Martin Hannagan. Martin was busy making relish when I arrived. He is a good cook. Great catch up with them. Their son Thomas is in Dubai and their other son local. Took a photo but it needs edited.
    I then went to an old Air Force friends. Again they live on a steep hill for an Invercargill lass. I parked on the flat at number 7 and walked up to their place at 25. No one home. Left a note. Mark phoned me back to say Gaylene had gone into care with dementia. Very sad to hear. Gaylene and I joined up on the same day.
    My parking skills are getting better. I am almost spot on this evening.
    Thankfully we are not sardines tonight and the park is a lot quieter than it has been thank goodness.
    Jack did a 'marathon' today at Forest Hill. He was very disappointed in his time. He has had a cough all week and he said his oxygen levels weren't the best. All learning I guess.
    On my health front the bruising is coming out and it is not a pretty picture. I look like I have a moustache!    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    One more day in Dunedin

    February 19, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ 🌬 18 °C

    Again a few domestic chores today. Swept the floor with a small half brush and shovel. Seems to work ok. Not sure if I will get a real broom or not. The place seems cleaner.
    I had arranged to see another ex Air Force friend today. Bev stayed in the AF for 20 years and became a Warrant Officer. It was excellent talking to her and seeing her pics. Remembering names (people) I hadn't thought of in years. Some I wish I knew what happened to them. Sparrow (Joan) was hell bent in marrying a Yank. She did. Operation Deep Freeze was around when we were in Air Force and I guess that is where she meet her man. Couple of other names came up and I do wonder how their lives turned out.
    Bev has a super garden and travels with the Opertunity group to lots of different places in the world. I did enjoy my time with her. Normally I would take a pic of the two of us but the way my face is - only Bev.
    Then I went to Mosgiel in the hope to catch up with another friend. Note to self. Phone first. Needless to say she wasn't home.
    Tried to go to Hocken Library but only open Tuesday till Saturday. Maybe I will get tomorrow.
    Decided to head to Port Chalmers. Cruise ship in. Loads of logs. Bit hard to take pics when you are driving and no parking spaces (with my skills) handy.
    Normally I would have looked at the shops but the state of my face deterred me. It is not pretty. Look terrible and I am too self conscious to venture far. I probably don't need to worry but I do .
    Supermarket time. I am finding it a challenge to know what to eat. I have only done weekends before and this is a new challenge. Decided on stir fry tonight. The veg will probably thraw out and I will have to throw them away.
    Thankfully I am (I hope) out of here tomorrow after my stitches are removed.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Moving from Dunedin to Hampden

    February 20, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ 🌬 13 °C

    Last night when I returned from my walk I got chatting with another 'camper' and his theory is the less water you have on board makes travelling easier. He also helped me with POP's. Pops are park over properties, similar to motorhome parks but no extras. So that is something else I have learnt.
    It was an early start for me. Managed the black waste easy but the grey waste not so well. I don't think I emptied the tank properly but with others waiting I needed to move on. There was leaking on the ground from grey waste so I hadn't turned it off properly. Knocked my confidence again.
    Then it was off for a lovely shower at the baths. I knew how to get there with the road works and did very well on the hills - less revering of the engine!!
    I then went to Hocken Library. Looking for David Smith is difficult but a couple of avenues to explore when I have the time. Need to get a few more facts back in my head.
    With a bit of spare time I opted to go and get more fuel. Saves me worrying later and I had time. I thought I got $50 in Clinton. I suspect it was $150 by going on this reading!
    Then it was back to the dentist to get my stitches removed. She was very pleased the way my mouth had healed and a little shocked at the amount of bruising. She had never seen so much bruising on a patient.
    Very pleased to be on the road again. Brief stop at Palmerston and the on to Hampden where I stayed on the way home from Christchurch in Dec. Loads more people here this time so no sea views from the camper. Might have to bite the bullet and freedom camp.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Not sure what day this is

    February 21, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 11 °C

    Some will know that my parents, after Dad retired went on a retirement holiday and as I recall they talked about it for the rest of their lives. Softball was their interest and it was said people turned around and there was Joycey and Stan (Auntie Joan some of the time ). I think it was in 1986. For me, I don't have to write and post letters. We take it for granted the internet will be available and I can communicate in real time.
    Mum and Dad had a wee pop up camper and left Invercargill in Dec so it was a little warmer than for them. If this six week trip is successful (l learn all I need to know) then I will go to the North Island later in the year. I look forward to posting pictures of me in the same place as Mum and Dad.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Night two at Hampden

    February 21, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 16 °C

    Quiet night here in Hampden to spite the train track being very close. It didn't wake me when they went through.
    After my posting on Facebook I was very surprised at the number of people that were interested in this pensioners journey. Hope they have the link now. Like I have said I won't be offended if it isn't your cup of tea.
    This morning I finally got the jackpot and got a beautiful spot. The sea is close and I can see and hear the waves.
    Hampden is a bit further north from the Moeraki Boulders. Seemingly 40 minutes to walk there. Decided it was a little far but walked a long way down the beach. I tried to develop my artistic side. Better say that it is a "W" incase you don't see my arty side!
    This morning I got the map out and plotted my next move.
    Waimate is my next stop. Decided to re-read my David Smith book to get all the facts in my brain before going to the Museum in Waimate where David Smith lived. Re-reaading it certainly high lighted somethings I could have researched at Hocken Library if I had remembered.
    Walked up to the shops this afternoon (there is a dear little gift shop and a Night n Day) and decided on sausages for my meal tonight and tomorrow night and the next night..! They don't have small amounts. Oh well.
    We had some bagpipes playing here this afternoon too. So lovely to hear. The guy walked by, just with street clothes on but it was so good to hear.
    Busy here but not super busy.
    Take care out there    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler
    1

    Hampden to Waimate

    February 22, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 19 °C

    When I am on the road (like a 10 whole days) I pretty much don't need to worry about the time I get up and go to bed, eat etc. The motorhome home parks are unlike other establishments don't have a check in or check out time. I just go with the flow.
    This morning I woke and was up around 7am and the sunrise was something I don't normally see.
    I went 'backwards' down to the boulders. I could see Fleur's place from the motorhome place at Hampden and in hindsight I could have walked there. Wasn't sure exactly where they were.
    They seem smaller than I remember as a kid or young adult.
    I then went into the village of Moeraki so I can say I have been there.
    Then it was on to Riverstone and Dot's Castle.
    I was late or early so nipped over to the cafe for a scone and hot chocolate. What a spread..!! Tony would have loved it.
    Absolutely LOVED the tour of the castle. No pictures allowed inside. From the flooring, art work, flowers, drapes, accessories, furniture and the chandeliers (easy a million in them) the wallpaper and the layout. Just loved it. Excellent and well worth going.
    It was then on to Waimate. Thankfully because I didn't say I was coming, and book an appointment to research the lady is going to meet me. I have spoken to her on the phone and I could hear the oh David Smith - that isn't going to be easy in her voice but meeting her tomorrow.
    A bit of a glitch with the camper. Realised that the guage is still showing full on the diesel gauge. Nice as it maybe not true. There are worse things and it isn't like I can't drive it. I have recorded the mileage so can work it out.
    Sad too, that dear old Roy, the chap I interviewed a couple of years ago in his 99th year passed away. He had a good long life. Pleased the family have him on video to look at forever.
    Nice park here and I am parked much more level than night one in my motorhome!
    Walked down to the shops because my face is almost normal. Got a couple of things for an easy peasy dinner.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Waimate and history

    February 23, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 21 °C

    Great weather here in Waimate. Normal kind of start to my camper life morning. It was time to do some washing. I had sussed out the place yesterday when I walked into town. Finding the "bra bag" was a mission. I know I packed it. Five cupboards and even the boot I found it..!! It is in the soap powder bag for next time!
    I have used the laundromat in Invercargill to wash duvet and thought (hoped) it would be the same franchise. Sadly no and had to buy another card for $3. Fine if I get to use it again and of course it is like gift cards will I use the balance? I was surprised at the cost. $9 for a 18kg wash. By the time I had fluffed around sorting it - no 18 kg washers. Do I wait 11 minutes for one to finish or do I use the two 8 kg ones? Opted for the 8 kgs and it cost a buck more - which wasn't a problem to get moving. Washing in and then back to the camper to watch a service for an Air Force lass. Amazing that we can watch the service in real time with modern phones/internet.
    Then back to pop washing in the drier. Managed with the 25 minute cycle. The lady helping thought I would need more. It was light and I look forward to fresh sheets tonight.
    I then had a bit of a drive around Waimate.
    At 2pm I had arranged to meet Edwina . For those genealogy ladies following me, she did talks with Jan Gower so very knew what she was talking about. She said Jan is in care now with dementia. Sad to hear about such a knowledgeable person.
    The results of the meeting were as I expected and only leads to follow up in looking for my David Smith.
    It was good to see they still had my two Smith books I had donated and even some letters. One from Nancy Wills even.
    Lots of history around the streets here. A few pics. More tomorrow.
    Supermarket for a few things. Now time for drinks. Think I will stay another night.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler
    1

    Another day in Waimate

    February 24, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 23 °C

    It only costs $5 per night to stay in the NZMCA parks for members. Most are couples from what I have seen and most have bikes. It is nice to see them biking away together after probably 40-50 or more years of marriage.
    Normally I have enough data per month to do all I need. However being on the road meant I was getting very low. With the help of Jack and FaceTime we sorted it and I have 100gb so that will last me until I get home! It still amazes me he can help via the tablet/phone etc.
    Saturday here in Waimate is Farmers Market day. It was spitting with rain so put my coat on to walk up and you can guess it stopped...!! If I hadn't it would have bucketed down.
    Just started off and I see a postie! So over I went and talked to him for probably 20 minutes. He has been with NZ Post most of his working life. Peter is about to retire in 18 days. Two runs here. He does Tue, Thurs,Sat and another lady the other days of the week. Contracted of course. Loves his electric bike.
    The market was pretty similar to others. Walking you choose wisely on weight. Also small quantities when you are on your own. The strawberries are so yummy!
    Picked up a book at The Sally's called Coal Range and Candlelight. Stuck my nose into that when got back.
    After lunch it was away on the bike out to the cemetery. There was a cross for David Smith's second wife Sarah, but it must have circum to the weather because I couldn't see it.
    Bike around and took a few other shots of the town. Massive community centre here for a small place. It is also the birth place of Norman Kirk. A former NZ prime minister for the non kiwis followers.
    On to Timaru tomorrow.
    If there is anything you would like to know message me.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Timaru

    February 25, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 17 °C

    This morning it was time to move on from Waimate. Some don't travel with full water tanks but I put more water in my tanks. The gauges in the van are not totally accurate, so I thought it was worth it.
    Then it was off to the dump station to empty. As you will know it wasn't very successful last time. A lovely couple helped me and emptying the grey waste would take forever because it was trickling out. The man said I need to change the connection but he estimated that I had at least four days before it would be full.
    There is a tube-hose I plug on to the tank to empty the grey waste. Perhaps I could sit on a cattle truck stop and little "go", without the tube. Not sure that is allowed but I can ask.
    Interestingly I saw a car and caravan heading to Oamaru that must have forgotten to do theirs up and was leaving a trail all down the road.
    The black waste (toilet) is cassette - size of a small suitcase that is unclipped, unscrew and tip down the waste hole. That is easy.
    Then fuel and away I went. Again I have never used my trip meter and that would really help with distance when the fuel gauge isn't working.
    Something I will need to learn until it gets fixed.
    Stopped at a rest area for awhile because it was taxing that I couldn't get it things "done". Took a bit of time and talked to Jack.
    My son Jack played rugby yesterday. He really enjoyed it. A real surprise to me. The Blue Sky team. Never thought rugby would be his cup of tea.
    In Timaru I stopped and ended up having lunch with a relative. Eileen is a lovely lady we always chat away happily when I have popped in.
    Parked down at Caroline Bay but thought I was sticking out too far so didn't go for a walk.
    Supermarket again. I am low on milk - decided not to get any. So different from home. When you are driving you have to turn off the gas that runs the fridge. The milk has been fine so far but thought I would wait so it will be supermarket again tomorrow probably.
    Tonight I am staying in a POP. Park over property. It is a little way out of Timaru. Showers and a laundry. They don't have a set amount it is by donation. Note to self - have smaller notes thank $50.......!!    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Second Night Timaru

    February 26, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    Two weeks today since I left home. Seems much longer.
    Didn't wake till 8 and when I pulled back the shades put up the blinds looked like no one else was up so it was off to the shower. Lovely shower for $2. No waiting. I have a shower in the camper but it isn't like a real shower.
    Then the normal and thought I would be away early but it was after 10.
    Off to the museum - guess what - not open on Mondays.
    Popped into the library to look up a couple of people on the electoral rolls.
    Then the Warehouse too get a few bits and pieces and then it was time to watch yet another funeral. Dear Roy the 102 year I interviewed a couple of years ago about his army life. Lovely tribute to him.
    Then it was off to see Glenn another ex Air Force friend. Glenn was saying he is 78. A few health issues but he is doing okay.
    The bins were full at Waimate so Glenn happily allowed me to put my small bag of rubbish in his bin. Gone - the things people worry about on the road..!
    My gas bottle had run out so I headed to refill it. I seem to be doomed. Arrived at 4pm and they close at 3...!!! I have two gas bottles so the other is okay. I will fill get a refill on the way into town in the morning.
    Trying to turn right on the main highway at 4pm was a nightmare in a
    Campervan. Probably would have been in a car too. I waited and waited and after awhile no cars turning left so I turned left went a block and turned right did a U turn and got back on the highway.
    Will spend another night here in the old Southdown school grounds. Not many photos again today. Massive big Bunnings being built here.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Seadown

    February 27, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 19 °C

    My apologies for last night. There seemed be a few glitches and the bit I posted about my parents is something I started and never posted and I thought I had deleted it. The internet was almost not happening until after 9pm.
    I was parked beside a couple from Blenheim in Waimate and then they have also been at Sea down (not South down as I said) and so in the morning and evening we have had a catch up on our days. They have moved on today and I will be here for another night. They were hoping to get as far as Christchurch today.
    I was here all morning and headed to the museum for the 1-30 opening in the archives section. As well as learning about camper life I have also learnt about researching and if I had planned ahead and let them know you are coming it is helpful. As previous visits nothing new but some avenues to explore.
    Their is a cruise ship in at Timaru so there was a market I had a quick look at but nothing took my fancy.
    I got my gas bottle filled on the way into town. Seemingly it was still half full so I don't know why the cooker pretended it was out. Full bottle again and the lovely man from rockgas carried it to my camper that was parked on the street. I could have driven in but I was cautious. He said a lot do that.
    Popped into the supermarket again. Didn't get caught today and went the corner with the traffic lights...!!
    Another wee gem today is that the rattle has gone!! How many ks have I driven? I moved stuff, put the non-slide stuff between the plates, pots etc. Still the rattle continued. Turned out it was the oven door! Makes such a difference!
    Getting a little better at taking photos - I have taken more in the last two weeks than the last two years probably. Phar Lap statue is on this road. Another photo is a tribute to paper boys but the wording didn't come out.
    I am sure the Southlanders will pick Russell Beck's work for Timaru's sister city    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler
    2

    Castle Claremont

    February 28, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 17 °C

    Another lovely $2 shower for me this morning and I am so use to having quick showers these days didn't even use up all my time.
    Took some photos of the fruit growing at Sea down before I left.
    Then I headed to Temuka to catch up with an old work mate. Great to catch up with Gay and with them having a caravan she gave me a few more hints about life on the road.
    After that I popped in to see another ex Air Force lady. Denise joined in 1965 and she said she was 89 but in another sentence 87. Certainly not a young person. She manages in her own home with help.
    After that it had been recommended that I go to Castle Claremont. I headed back south - not far. Very well worth the trip. Very picturesque place.
    I wasn't sure that I was in the right place with a sign saying private property. Certainly didn't want to go up some drive that was narrow and I couldn't turn around in with ease.
    I phoned the number and sure enough it was the right place. No one else here. Wasn't here five minutes and another couple pulled up from Whangarei. They had also phoned up because they weren't sure. Usually they have a motorhome sign or a POP sign on the gate.
    Went for a walk around with them and learnt a bit of the history. Google is very handy.
    Built 1884, been a Govt General's residence, a training establishment for a church and a private residence. It is on the market for 3.5 million, which is a pretty good buy. Added on a few buildings at various times.
    Another couple has arrived as well.
    Weather is very dull and cool and some rain this morning.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Short and Sweet

    February 29, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 20 °C

    So far I haven't had a problem with finding something to write about each day. As I was driving up from Timaru to Christchurch I thought today's blog would be short and sweet.
    Bit cool this morning and a little damp. I did managed to walk down the the entrance gate at Castle Claremont. Knowing my previous occupation I got the mail and newspapers out of the letterbox and put it on the doorstep of the main house. I suspect with four "farm" newspapers that it had been there for sometime. Several power bills - hope they are on direct debit otherwise if they might not have any power.
    No problem driving. Stopped in Ashburton and got a couple of things and emptied the black waste.
    The friend I could have visited was on the West Coast, so headed to my sister's.
    As it turned out there was a gathering at Carolyn's as she was going to be presented with her retirement certificate from the JP service. My time was amazing. Nice to see her family here also to support her. I remembered Tony and I took Mum and Dad to Queenstown when she first became a JP. The circle goes around    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Domestic Chores

    March 1, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ⛅ 21 °C

    If yesterday was short and sweet today will be even shorter. I am keen to write something every day.
    Last night after a lovely family meal and good conversation with family. Carolyn (sister) said slept in one of her beds so off I went for an hour then got up and said I am going to sleep in my camper. So off I went - never ever thought I would sleep in a camper in a suburban street...!! It is a no exit street so it was very quiet. I slept well.
    This morning Carolyn replaced a zip in her daughter's trousers and the daughter did Carolyn's ironing. Seemed a good exchange.
    This afternoon we have been to the shops.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Farmers Market

    March 2, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C

    This morning my sister and I went to get her new phone sorted and we then went and picked up her granddaughter and went to the markets at Riccarton. A lot busier than the markets I have been to in the past.
    Like all markets interesting things. See the picture of the tomatoes. I also got some fruit and a couple of sweet treats.
    There was a pipe band competition and loads of pipers in all shapes and forms in the same park. Really good to see them.
    It was great to see the stream at the farmers market with such clear water. Not sure if you will be able to see that in the photo.
    Back to Carolyn's and then in the camper and off to my brother's place for some much needed helped with various things.
    Seem the grey waste tank was empty, must have been leaking. I am pretty confident that I will be able to empty in the future with Winston excellent tuition. Cap on now to ensure I do the right thing in the future, and handle in the closed position.
    He was great and helped me with the others things that needed to be attended too with the camper. One task was installing the dash cam. Perhaps I will be able to show you some footage in the blog.
    Great meal at the "big house". I could have stayed and helped with a jigsaw but decided to go to the camper for the evening and catching up on things.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Airwomen

    March 3, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ⛅ 17 °C

    My lovely brother washed my camper this morning. So lovely to drive a clean vehicle. He is very good to his sister.
    It was then a quick change and off to the Havard Bar to meet the old friends from the Air Force. We have been before and may have had the odd cocktail there and it brought back fond memories.
    Lots of lovely conversations. The food was good too.
    Marg had a raffle and low and behold I drew out my own number! Very nice set of bowls.
    We then walked over to towards the Wigram Museum. The state of the plaque to Airwomen is not in the best of order and Marg is a champion trying to get it into a better condition or replaced. She is great for doing that.
    We then went inside and saw the new WAAF display. Women's Auxillary Air Force. Small but at least it is something to recognise the ladies that served during the war. There were two cupboards cut outs of former Airwomen - we need one of Dale Kuiti now. Dale is the longest serving Airwomen. 49 years! She retired a couple of years ago.
    Today there was also a vintage (retro) day - sale, being held as well. Six women couldn't resist.
    I managed to get some succulents for my sister and a belt for Jack. Very pleased with my bargains.
    Back to Gayle'e for a cuppa. Collect my lovely laundry from my sisters. Not ironed...! Didn't need it. Back to Ohoka.
    Arrived once again for a for more delicious food. I am very lucky.
    Not sure if everyone knows you can get my blog in ascending and descending order at the press of a button - no need to scroll through to find the latest one.
    Thank you all for reading and your kind comments.    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler

    Three weeks on the road

    March 4, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ 🌬 22 °C

    Not much to report today. Been "home" all day. Got the camper booked in for the small repair tomorrow afternoon so I was able to makes some plans. Their communication is terrible. They said they would phone this morning but I had to phone them this afternoon.
    Boring things today like paying some large bills and tidying camper. Nose in a book, a little tele and some games.
    Some shots my niece took here this morning. I wasn't up early enough to get them! Hope you they are not copy right    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler
    The lawn view from my camper1Passenger 2Good brother

    No Camper

    March 5, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ 🌬 14 °C

    After I posted the blog last night I went for a walk. My brother and sister-in-law live on a lifestyle block near Christchurch. The houses I saw were very very nice when I was out walking. They are on an irrigation scheme and you could see some water their grass others it is brown.
    I was able to walk around a large block and had to take the picture of the Mandeville sign. No where near Gore. I also saw a cemetery - didn't go in and could only see one headstone.
    This morning I had a real success. I emptied the grey waste all by myself..!! After the anguish of failing last time the jubilation in succeeding felt excellent and a real confidence booster. I am sure it was because of the twinking Winny did the other day.
    Winny and son Josh (who arrived from Oz overnight) then got me to check the oil and water. Perhaps something else.
    They also helped me with litres of fuel in the camper tank, distance travelled and so I can use the trip meter till I get home and get it repaired, without any worry.
    Next they then came with me to the petrol station to check the pressure in my tyres. First time I have had more than two people in the camper.
    So so appreciate if their help.
    Said my farewells and off to post some mail and a parcel to Jack. Bit early for the campervan place so a chat on the phone to Jack filled in time nicely.
    There was a problem with the temperature reading on the camper. The one that shows the outside temperature. Handy but not like I can't use it without it. In December when I was up they were unable to get the part but I was happy to have it repaired in Feb when I planned to be in Christchurch next. The service manager said it would take an hour. I thought I would wait with my phone and book an hour would go quickly. However more of an issue than just changing the part. They wanted more time and it was getting close to 5pm.
    A help help call to my dear sister said that she would come and get me and she would give me a bed for the night.
    So no camper this evening. I will be okay this time. I really could have been sleeping on the street...!
    Hope the wiring issue is found and perhaps even it may help the fuel gauge. Fingers crossed.
    I think it will be okay in the morning and I reunited with my house on wheels    Read more

  • Wendy SmithWendy SmithTraveler
    The sky earlier
    Carolyn colourful planters

    Camper Back

    March 6, 2024 in New Zealand ⋅ ☁️ 15 °C

    I did manage to sleep well last night in a house bed. Not many other options.
    This morning I txt the camper place so they had my number and didn't have to hunt for it. They have been poor at communicating so I wanted to ensure they didn't have any excuse.
    It was quite early - maybe around 10am they txted to say camper was all good.
    Carolyn took me over around 11-30. The camper was still in the garage and the young chap backed it out for me. I didn't think it would be too difficult but he had a couple of goes so pleased I didn't give it a try.
    The super duper thing I noticed when I started driving back to Carolyn's was the fuel gauge was working!! I did thank the universe!
    I reckon it was a wiring fault and when they fixed the temp gauge the tank was linking and so both are working.
    Will make travelling easier although I will watch it very carefully for the next wee while, just to make sure.
    This afternoon I went to visit my Dad's cousin. John is coming 96 - still of very sound mind even if his body gives him a little strife. John is great to have a conversation with and a couple of hours can go in a flash.
    This afternoon I asked him if he would be happy for me to video him talking about his life. So often I have wanted to do this but this trip I put my money where my mouth is, as the expression goes. No prep and John was great.
    We spent a couple of hours recording John's memories of Orepuki and his life since then. I will return tomorrow and get some more of our history on video for the future generations to watch when John is no longer around.
    Only a couple of pics today. More tomorrow    Read more

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