On the third day of this trip - way back in January there had been rain while I was in Russell. Yesterday was Feb 5th and there was a warm rain shower. Pat and Brian and I all went swimming. Water is healing. So is travelling when you meet up with fantastic people.

The trip to Gisborne involved a 60k bus trip through a gorge and over a mountain. Gisborne is another surfing town but is somewhat isolated from the Auckland influence - not as slick nor as modern.

History plus however - Cooke first landed at Gisborne, the Maori's first landed there too.

I promise more pictures of this city. It feels like a slice of the 40's - maybe 30's. Beautiful buildings, but many empty.

One thing I have to mention - I love New Zealand for many reasons but one of them is - NO TIPPING. Yes that's right, you can have a meal and pay the amount on the bill and they still smile at you. I have been able to get into this new habit because the New Zealanders that I have spent time with insist on it. They dearly want to preserve this part of thier culture.

Pictured to your right: clockwise:

• rain again
• the 60k bus trip through the gorge and over the mountain towards Gisborne
• a shop in Gisborne - elegant clothing and stained glass
• so many old homes with gingerbread, picket fences and metal roofs
• downtown Gisborne