Another lovely stop over in Wellington

AC coming in after a pleasant paddle in Evans Bay

We crossed back over into the North Island on the 12th April, thankfully two days after the storm came through so we had a calm crossing even though delayed with the back log of travellers.
As we've mentioned in earlier blogs, the Evans Bay Marina is just down the road from Shannon & AC's home -

Parked up with others - bit tight at times

View back across Wellington Harbour

a great spot to park up for a few days. We wanted a few days to catch up with S&A - and for Bill to give them a hand restaining their decks. The only job that Shannon felt their new home needed attending to.
Friday after a walk around Lyall Bay, we went for a bike ride past Wellington's Airport, onto Seaton, and back around the Mirama Peninsula (15.9km ride).
As S&A worked late, it was easier for me to do the evening meals and I enjoyed the use of the larger kitchen and stunning views. On our bike ride we passed a French Rotisserie Cart who was selling chicken and duck. Duck! I love duck. So we picked one up the next night which made dinner simple after S&A&B had stained the decks. Sadly the duck was disappointing - not a lot of meat and a bit overdone! But the decks looked great.
Saturday night before S&A headed off to a party, we visited their local in Hataitai. A little Brewbar called Waitoa Social Club. An interesting, if not noisy wee bar but enjoyable.

Boys hard at work

Sunday after a brunch in town with S&A and two nephews with partners (James & Katie and Dean & Jamie) it was time to head north to Otaki and have a catch up with cousin Sandra. 
The next day we headed to Napier to meet the East Cape Gang.

Oriental Parade looking stunning on my morning walk