Panda at Large: Far from a White Christmas in Europe!

We departed Ireland on 24th Nov and it was a little sad after 8 years. We had been well treated at Inistioge, Dublin and Mountshannon and made many friends. It is not TOO far from Zurich however and I am sure we will be drawn back before too long. We were very fortunate to miss the weather "bomb" which subsequently struck Western Europe, and headed to LA to spend a few days with Sheila and Mike.

We arrived in Christchurch (the shakey city) and after a few days headed down South to spend time with Adele's sister in Winton.

A highlight of our trip was a return to Stewart Island with our mates from Loch Linhe station, Murray and Karen.

They have a lovely little cottage overlooking Halfmoon Bay and we subsequently overdosed on the harvest of the Southern Ocean: Crayfish, Blue Cod, Mussels and Oysters. "Heaven on a plate!"

Then after a quick trip up through Queenstown, Haast, Greymouth and Hanmer Springs we made it back to Christchurch before heading to the opposite end of the country to meet up with Patrick and take on one the country's most talked about golf courses, Kauri Cliffs.

We stayed at Kerikeri and driving to the course through mist and sea fog we were unsure if would be able to play. Arriving onsite however the weather improved and we took to the links, not thinking of the ozone layer and subsequently got a little sun, however that was better than the alternative in Ireland at that stage!!

The course is certainly a fantastic lay out with much "real estate" and most holes being totally isolated from others (similar probably to Jack's Point -though I have never played it!).Patrick had booked a couple of caddies and I would have to admit it was a great way to play such a great course. With the wind at my back I proceeded to shoot a very admirable 40 for the front nine off the white tees and was two up at the turn. The run didn't last sadly and I was pegged back on the17th and lost 2/1. The highlight of Patrick's round was an eagle at the signature par 5, 470m 15th. Drive, 9 iron, "gimme" putt. Much to the awe of the caddies and assembled gallery! I would have to say that it was a great day out if not a "trifle" expensive at around $1200 but the economist with us thought it was relative value for money, so who am I to argue?

From Kerikeri we progressed to Matarangi on the Coromandel Peninsula for the "main event", Christmas with the Ryan's and others.

Paula and Rob have a couple of "bach's" there and made sure that evryone was accommodated and comfortable.

Due to the adverse weather conditions in Europe, unfortunately sister Sheila could not make landfall in NZ. Because of delayed and cancelled flights from Heathrow she could not leave her post in LA and let her staff cover a difficult situation on their own. We were pleased that we at least had spent a few days with her enroute, but we all felt for her. Well done Sheila, your time will come!