I am not saying the lockdown is a bad move.
Its the only move left that Johnson can make.
But its the decisions that brought us here that we should not forget.
The lockdown in March and Pril should have been used to ramp up testing for when the time was right to loosen that.
For the most of the first lockdown, there was no Government as Johnson, Cummings (?), the chief medical officer, head of the civil service all fell ill, leaving Raab in charge.
From the start of the first lockdown, a track and trace capable of sheilding the whole country was needed. Mistake after mistake and £12 beillions spent on a system that Cummings wanted to centralise the data collection.
Even when that failed, and there was a change of plan, the track and trace failed, yet the taxpayer stumping up hundreds of millions on contracts to the likes of Serco.
All through the late spring, summer and into September, there was just enough capacity in testing, but track and trace still wasn't working. Once the predicted second wave started, there wasn't enough capacity in testing, tests were to be rationed, people expected to drive 10 hours to the other end of the country for a test.
And on top of everything, just when a second lockdown is to be announced, the furlough scheme ends at midnight tonight, who in their right mind thinks that is a good idea.
And at the same time, the Government pushing a hard Brexit on 31st December, the UK isn't ready, companies are not ready, and it is simple to ask the EU for an extension, but political hubris means Johnson won't.
A second wave was always likely to happen, but the testing, track and trace systems not being up and running or having enough capacity is just unforgiveable, and on top of evverything else, Brexit.
A second lockdown was always likely, back in September SAGE recommended it, and yet the chance to use the week of the school half term holidays was wasted, and instead children are expected to go back to work, even in a strict lockdown.
The expected lockdown should be used to fix the testing capacity and sorting track and trace, but seeing the Government have had seven months, chances are slim.
Failure to fix these issues will just mean that the wave will build again when things are loosened.
I have not seen or heard the PM this week, he is to give a speech at 17:00 this evening.
Aand it comes to something when I have to watch a US news report on how hospitals in Blackburn are coping, rather than hear it on the BBC.
To make mistakes in March is bad enough, but to make the self same mistakes seven months later is nothing less than criminal.
Saturday 31 October 2020
Friday 30th October 2020
So, back to how it was. Like we just walked out of the shower and all the logos on our workwear had been replaced.
Our heads are still spinning.
We have no idea what it means for any of us. Nor what it means for our projects, our areas of speciality. No idea.
We have no choice but to carry on until we are told otherwise.
Jools gets up at five, goes around getting ready for her yoga class, as this is her last day of furlough before going back to work. At the moment she is to be allowed to have Fridays off, but we shall see how long that lasts.
Once she leaves at ten past six, I go up to do my session on the cross trainer. Its easier than any day thus far, but still not enjoyable. But I have feeling more eneergetic. But then, everything is relative.
I have a shower, have breakfast and am ready to start work at eight, as we have another auditor's meeting, though for a change we don't really talk about audits. We talk about the news, the only news, and the fact we have no idea what any of it means.
I have non-stop meetings to half twelve. Jools comes back, makes me a tea as I work away from one meeting to another.
At the end of it, I can confirm we have no idea what the news means.
I made a loaf of wholemeal bread before work, that gets baked at eleven, so was cool enough for lunch at quarter to one.
And the bread is a triumph. Of course.
I work to three, outside rain falls steadily. Te cats sit around, watching us to check on if and when we go near the kitty kibble tin, or that it might be dinner time. We give in at half three.
Dinner is courgette fritters, made with my own fair hands, though I did manage to nearly cut the top of my little finger off. Amazing how much blood a little pinky finger contains, and how high up the wall it can spurt.
I then realise how hard it is to open a band aid package with blood pissing out of your finger.
Oh how I laugh.
The fritters get cooked, and they too are very good, not a triumph, then needed more spice. But we ate them all anyway.
For the evening, I watched the Reading v Coventry game on TV, and Coventry beat the league leaders, 3-2, and were good value for their victory too.
Outside the wind howled and the rain fell.
Our heads are still spinning.
We have no idea what it means for any of us. Nor what it means for our projects, our areas of speciality. No idea.
We have no choice but to carry on until we are told otherwise.
Jools gets up at five, goes around getting ready for her yoga class, as this is her last day of furlough before going back to work. At the moment she is to be allowed to have Fridays off, but we shall see how long that lasts.
Once she leaves at ten past six, I go up to do my session on the cross trainer. Its easier than any day thus far, but still not enjoyable. But I have feeling more eneergetic. But then, everything is relative.
I have a shower, have breakfast and am ready to start work at eight, as we have another auditor's meeting, though for a change we don't really talk about audits. We talk about the news, the only news, and the fact we have no idea what any of it means.I have non-stop meetings to half twelve. Jools comes back, makes me a tea as I work away from one meeting to another.
At the end of it, I can confirm we have no idea what the news means.
I made a loaf of wholemeal bread before work, that gets baked at eleven, so was cool enough for lunch at quarter to one.
And the bread is a triumph. Of course.
I work to three, outside rain falls steadily. Te cats sit around, watching us to check on if and when we go near the kitty kibble tin, or that it might be dinner time. We give in at half three.
Dinner is courgette fritters, made with my own fair hands, though I did manage to nearly cut the top of my little finger off. Amazing how much blood a little pinky finger contains, and how high up the wall it can spurt.
I then realise how hard it is to open a band aid package with blood pissing out of your finger.Oh how I laugh.
The fritters get cooked, and they too are very good, not a triumph, then needed more spice. But we ate them all anyway.
For the evening, I watched the Reading v Coventry game on TV, and Coventry beat the league leaders, 3-2, and were good value for their victory too.Outside the wind howled and the rain fell.
There's a frikkin' surprise
As paraphrased from My Cousin Vinny.
For weeks now, dating back to the middle of September when Johnson declined the advice by SAGE to have a two week lockdown, three weeks after Starmer suggested it, and three days after in an interview with the Hate Mail declaring he will do ANYTHING to prevent a national lockdown, it is highly likely that from Monday at the latest, the whole of England will be locked down.
The lockdown will between four and six weeks and so will be longer, and harsher that needed if done in September.
If only someone could have fortold all of this.
Sigh.
To see May and then Johnson have the sam tactic over and over agan, making the same mistake year on year, to see Johnson make the same mistake as in March when he delayed the lockdown until it was too late condemming 20,000 people to an early death, he has done the same in the Autumn too.
Hundreds, if not thousands extra will die. Many more will fall ill, businesses will go bust, people will lose their homes due to lack of support, just so Johnson could avoid a confrontation with his own backbenchers, that was put ahead of what was good for the country.
Again, the Government has briefed two of the most Tory-friendly newspapers, so that news leaks out, causing more confusion and uncertainty.
Anyone who thought this was going to go any other way in the balmy barmy days of the summer when the Chancellor brbed people to go and eat out, so spreading more of the virus about, clearly hasn't been payng attention.
Once again, I hate being right.
November will be unbearable grim.
December worse.
But that will be nothing compared to January. Then we will be wishing it was November again.
Stay safe and hold those you love, close. Wear masks when you go out, only go out when needed.
For weeks now, dating back to the middle of September when Johnson declined the advice by SAGE to have a two week lockdown, three weeks after Starmer suggested it, and three days after in an interview with the Hate Mail declaring he will do ANYTHING to prevent a national lockdown, it is highly likely that from Monday at the latest, the whole of England will be locked down.
The lockdown will between four and six weeks and so will be longer, and harsher that needed if done in September.
If only someone could have fortold all of this.
Sigh.
To see May and then Johnson have the sam tactic over and over agan, making the same mistake year on year, to see Johnson make the same mistake as in March when he delayed the lockdown until it was too late condemming 20,000 people to an early death, he has done the same in the Autumn too.
Hundreds, if not thousands extra will die. Many more will fall ill, businesses will go bust, people will lose their homes due to lack of support, just so Johnson could avoid a confrontation with his own backbenchers, that was put ahead of what was good for the country.
Again, the Government has briefed two of the most Tory-friendly newspapers, so that news leaks out, causing more confusion and uncertainty.
Anyone who thought this was going to go any other way in the balmy barmy days of the summer when the Chancellor brbed people to go and eat out, so spreading more of the virus about, clearly hasn't been payng attention.
Once again, I hate being right.
November will be unbearable grim.
December worse.
But that will be nothing compared to January. Then we will be wishing it was November again.
Stay safe and hold those you love, close. Wear masks when you go out, only go out when needed.
Friday 30 October 2020
Thursday 29th October 2020
Just when you thought things couldn't get more chaotic, something else comes along.
All of that in a minute.
Thursday was another dark and wet day, not one for going out and singing to the birds and flowers.
Oh no.
Things are changing soon, Jools going back to work on Monday, so this week is just spent enjoying the time together, and Jools getting the last of the tasks done before heading back to the world of work. And on Thursday that means going to Tesco and the doctors. All meaning there is less to do at the weekend.
After getting up and drinking the first coffee of the day, there is the session on the cross trainer. Not as bad, but still not enjoyable. I foolishly said I will do two sessions a day from Monday.
Silly me.
I have a shower, get dressed and am ready for work and the early meeting. And as we are an hour behind Denmark, I log on for the morning meeting a couple of minutes before it was due to start, so had not read my mails.
I started the meeting, and Henrik joined me, and dropped the bombshell: Hello, fellow Vestas emloyee. As overnight one of our two parent companies had bought the other one out, and our independent company was to be dragged back into Vestas. There was no hint this was even a possibility, and no idea for some time what it means to any of us.
Our boss, who had been reading CVs first thing, and when we pressed her for news she had to admit she had not read her mails that morning either.
Later that morning there was a webcast lead by the Vestas CEO who told us nothing new, really, just that it was happening and is a good thing. Isn't it always?
So, for now, no change, but in two or three months, very different. I have thoughts, but none to share for now. Other than we have many duplicate functions now, and that will have to change, but we shall see.
No real work was done for the rest of the day, as colleagues called each other to ask what it meant and if we knew. No one knew. Or suspected.
We have lunch, a brew, once Jools came back from Tesco. I has more beers now, and we has milk and coffee.
I try to concentrate through the afternoon, through another meeting on calibration (sigh).
And that was it.
Through the day I had put a huge pot of bones and offcuts onto simmer to make some beef stock for gravy to have with Sunday lunch. I had six pints of stock in the end, more than enough to last weeks if not months. I needed to cool overnight, however.
Dinner is simple: burgers and beer. Simple.
And then the long evening spent writing and beating Jools at Uckers, which was quite satisfying.
Wmah ha ha.
All of that in a minute.
Thursday was another dark and wet day, not one for going out and singing to the birds and flowers.
Oh no.
Things are changing soon, Jools going back to work on Monday, so this week is just spent enjoying the time together, and Jools getting the last of the tasks done before heading back to the world of work. And on Thursday that means going to Tesco and the doctors. All meaning there is less to do at the weekend.
After getting up and drinking the first coffee of the day, there is the session on the cross trainer. Not as bad, but still not enjoyable. I foolishly said I will do two sessions a day from Monday.
Silly me.
I have a shower, get dressed and am ready for work and the early meeting. And as we are an hour behind Denmark, I log on for the morning meeting a couple of minutes before it was due to start, so had not read my mails.
I started the meeting, and Henrik joined me, and dropped the bombshell: Hello, fellow Vestas emloyee. As overnight one of our two parent companies had bought the other one out, and our independent company was to be dragged back into Vestas. There was no hint this was even a possibility, and no idea for some time what it means to any of us.
Our boss, who had been reading CVs first thing, and when we pressed her for news she had to admit she had not read her mails that morning either.
Later that morning there was a webcast lead by the Vestas CEO who told us nothing new, really, just that it was happening and is a good thing. Isn't it always?
So, for now, no change, but in two or three months, very different. I have thoughts, but none to share for now. Other than we have many duplicate functions now, and that will have to change, but we shall see.
No real work was done for the rest of the day, as colleagues called each other to ask what it meant and if we knew. No one knew. Or suspected.
We have lunch, a brew, once Jools came back from Tesco. I has more beers now, and we has milk and coffee.
I try to concentrate through the afternoon, through another meeting on calibration (sigh).
And that was it.
Through the day I had put a huge pot of bones and offcuts onto simmer to make some beef stock for gravy to have with Sunday lunch. I had six pints of stock in the end, more than enough to last weeks if not months. I needed to cool overnight, however.
Dinner is simple: burgers and beer. Simple.And then the long evening spent writing and beating Jools at Uckers, which was quite satisfying.
Wmah ha ha.
A perfect storm
The UK is heading into a perfect storm where the joint realities of a second wave of COVID-19 combine with the realities of the end of the transition period and economic Brexit, both underpinned by gross incompetence and mismanagement.
Add to that a soupçon of political dogma, and the UK isn’t going to know what hit it come January 1st, and with each passing week between now and then, each 7 day period will be worse.
Much worse.
First of all, the dogma: On Sunday, the Chancellor’s furlough scheme comes to an end, being replaced by something a little cheaper, but only supports “viable” jobs, and you have to work at least 20% of your contracted hours, or something, rules changed a couple of weeks back so not quite certain.
But for many, November will bring redundancy and financial uncertainty. Jobs especially in the services, food and drink and entertainment industries hit the very hardest. Recover for those areas will be long and slow, would have been easier with a furlough scheme, but such support is alien to Conservative thinking, so the country must be weaned off it.
And some kind of national lockdown is inevitable, with just essential shopping and travel with local exercise permitted. The Government will resist, but each day passes without one, ensure the infections rise and in due course, so will deaths. The Government seems to be focussing on “saving Christmas”, like the country will be in any state to celebrate, operating on a rule of six with just two households able to mix.
Christmas comes a week before no deal or minimal deal Brexit. There might be little to panic buy by then, but with a hard lockdown in place, at least, unemployment rampant and many going onto Universal Credit, having to wait up to six weeks for their £140 a week, times will be tougher than tough.
And then come Brexit, full undiluted Brexit, on January 1st. Though that is a bank holiday, so the next working day, the 2nd, we will see what happens.
A shortage of fresh fruit and vegetables seems inevitable, even if you have the money to buy time, as something like 75% comes from the EU. Yes we grow some, but not enough and there won’t be enough people to pick what we have.
It is estimated that there will be queues of trucks, days long, for up to three months, probably longer on route to the ports, meaning the food and supplies, like medicine, we import will not come into the country, as hauliers know trucks will take days to leave the UK.
I read a blog post by Chris Grey, one of the best Brexit commentators there is, about his recent trip from Dover to Belgium by ferry. Facilities still being constructed in England, but completed in Europe. We, the country that wanted Brexit, is least prepared. It really makes you want to weep.
And the worst of it can me stopped, delayed at least, by the UK requesting that the extension period be extended. The EU would have to grant it, but probably would allowing them to concentrate too on COVID, but the UK Government presses on, like the captain of an apparently unsinkable liner heading for the mother of all icebergs, not caring about the country, the economy or the people it represents, only the purity of the Brexit dream and a trade deal with the US that will improve the UK GDP by, at most, 1.6% over 15 years, but Brexit costing 7.6% over the same time period.
And even then, there might not be a trade deal, as with Trump as President, the House of Representatives would block a deal with the UK if Brexit has damaged or threatened the GFA, or with Biden who will be concentrating on rebuilding bridges with the EU, NATO and all other former strategic partners.
0And as I have said recently, no Brexiteer’s beliefs can change the basic reality that Europe and the EU is just 23 miles away, and as a trading country, we will need to trade with them. And I believe common sense will win out, in the end, and at some point we will either rejoin or become so close to the EU you won’t see the join. But before then, there will be rough waters, troubling times, maybe food, energy, medicine and fuel shortages. Some of the damage will be repaired, but much cannot.
And running through these two storms is the rank incompetence of the Brexiteers and this Vote Leave Government, who know the cost of everything and the value of nothing. Throughout Brexit, it has for much of the time impossible to tell if May and Johnson really want Brexit to succeed or are trying to sabotage it, due to the sheer number of unforced errors both made. And yet, through it all, here we are, having left the EU, politically, and about to exit the transition, with little or no plan on what to do, what needs to be done, who should do it, other than to blame everyone, anyone else, other than themselves. And that has gone through onto COVID, with talk of grand plans and world-beating this and that, but have failed, totally to protect the country and its people. Comparing UK with Sweden, who literally did nothing during the first wave, the UK did worse. And the same people who did that are still in charge, and instead of used the pandemic to line their own pockets and the pockets of their friends and backers, news came yesterday of leaked documents in which favoured companies were to be offered contracts with profit margins of 35 to 45% in supplying PPE during a pandemic, and did so, thus turning a profit out of death and in the process much of what was supplied was no good, not to specification to be used in the NHS, or in the case of coveralls, a 36 years supply was bought for an item with a three year shelf life.
Hundreds of millions of pounds syphoned to these friends and backers, whilst we are told there is no money to feed hungry schoolchildren.
And we will see much, much more of this in our post-Brexit Lalaland, and thanks to the limitations on JR and other measures, unable to find out that it is happening.
Add to that a soupçon of political dogma, and the UK isn’t going to know what hit it come January 1st, and with each passing week between now and then, each 7 day period will be worse.
Much worse.
First of all, the dogma: On Sunday, the Chancellor’s furlough scheme comes to an end, being replaced by something a little cheaper, but only supports “viable” jobs, and you have to work at least 20% of your contracted hours, or something, rules changed a couple of weeks back so not quite certain.
But for many, November will bring redundancy and financial uncertainty. Jobs especially in the services, food and drink and entertainment industries hit the very hardest. Recover for those areas will be long and slow, would have been easier with a furlough scheme, but such support is alien to Conservative thinking, so the country must be weaned off it.
And some kind of national lockdown is inevitable, with just essential shopping and travel with local exercise permitted. The Government will resist, but each day passes without one, ensure the infections rise and in due course, so will deaths. The Government seems to be focussing on “saving Christmas”, like the country will be in any state to celebrate, operating on a rule of six with just two households able to mix.
Christmas comes a week before no deal or minimal deal Brexit. There might be little to panic buy by then, but with a hard lockdown in place, at least, unemployment rampant and many going onto Universal Credit, having to wait up to six weeks for their £140 a week, times will be tougher than tough.
And then come Brexit, full undiluted Brexit, on January 1st. Though that is a bank holiday, so the next working day, the 2nd, we will see what happens.
A shortage of fresh fruit and vegetables seems inevitable, even if you have the money to buy time, as something like 75% comes from the EU. Yes we grow some, but not enough and there won’t be enough people to pick what we have.
It is estimated that there will be queues of trucks, days long, for up to three months, probably longer on route to the ports, meaning the food and supplies, like medicine, we import will not come into the country, as hauliers know trucks will take days to leave the UK.
I read a blog post by Chris Grey, one of the best Brexit commentators there is, about his recent trip from Dover to Belgium by ferry. Facilities still being constructed in England, but completed in Europe. We, the country that wanted Brexit, is least prepared. It really makes you want to weep.
And the worst of it can me stopped, delayed at least, by the UK requesting that the extension period be extended. The EU would have to grant it, but probably would allowing them to concentrate too on COVID, but the UK Government presses on, like the captain of an apparently unsinkable liner heading for the mother of all icebergs, not caring about the country, the economy or the people it represents, only the purity of the Brexit dream and a trade deal with the US that will improve the UK GDP by, at most, 1.6% over 15 years, but Brexit costing 7.6% over the same time period.
And even then, there might not be a trade deal, as with Trump as President, the House of Representatives would block a deal with the UK if Brexit has damaged or threatened the GFA, or with Biden who will be concentrating on rebuilding bridges with the EU, NATO and all other former strategic partners.
0And as I have said recently, no Brexiteer’s beliefs can change the basic reality that Europe and the EU is just 23 miles away, and as a trading country, we will need to trade with them. And I believe common sense will win out, in the end, and at some point we will either rejoin or become so close to the EU you won’t see the join. But before then, there will be rough waters, troubling times, maybe food, energy, medicine and fuel shortages. Some of the damage will be repaired, but much cannot.
And running through these two storms is the rank incompetence of the Brexiteers and this Vote Leave Government, who know the cost of everything and the value of nothing. Throughout Brexit, it has for much of the time impossible to tell if May and Johnson really want Brexit to succeed or are trying to sabotage it, due to the sheer number of unforced errors both made. And yet, through it all, here we are, having left the EU, politically, and about to exit the transition, with little or no plan on what to do, what needs to be done, who should do it, other than to blame everyone, anyone else, other than themselves. And that has gone through onto COVID, with talk of grand plans and world-beating this and that, but have failed, totally to protect the country and its people. Comparing UK with Sweden, who literally did nothing during the first wave, the UK did worse. And the same people who did that are still in charge, and instead of used the pandemic to line their own pockets and the pockets of their friends and backers, news came yesterday of leaked documents in which favoured companies were to be offered contracts with profit margins of 35 to 45% in supplying PPE during a pandemic, and did so, thus turning a profit out of death and in the process much of what was supplied was no good, not to specification to be used in the NHS, or in the case of coveralls, a 36 years supply was bought for an item with a three year shelf life.
Hundreds of millions of pounds syphoned to these friends and backers, whilst we are told there is no money to feed hungry schoolchildren.
And we will see much, much more of this in our post-Brexit Lalaland, and thanks to the limitations on JR and other measures, unable to find out that it is happening.
Thursday 29 October 2020
The inevitability of it all
Pandemics can be predicted on mathamatical models; knowing the population, the infection (R) rate, we can have a pretty good guess what the infections and deaths will be like in days, weeks and even months ahead.
Forecasts in March said how bad things would be, politicians baulked, dithered, and tens of thousands of extra people died.
In September, SAGE recommended a two week national lockdown, the PM refused.
Instead we have seen lockdown, if not by stealth, but by increments as one area of the north of England after another is locked down ever tighter.
By estimates, there are now over 100,000 new cases every day, and the R rate in England is between 1.5 and 2.7, so we know this will rapidly go up, as those who will show symptoms next week are already infected, and some of those will go on to be next months daily deaths.
By the middle of Novemeber, the UK will be seeing 1,000 deaths a day. This is as a result of the climbing R rate and the mortality rate.
It is inevitable.
And yet the PM faces a daily battle with his backbenchers, the editors of Fleet Street and relaity in denying the inevitable lockdown.
It will come.
It will be longer and harsher than was needed had it been brought in back in September.
The same mistake as in March. Made by the same people who were in charge then. And those same people congratulated themselves, on record, on having done a good job.
So we enter the last six weeks if the Brexit tranisition period with a pandemic sweeping the country, closing the economy down.
Its gim now, but imagine how bad this will be in a month, or two?
Forecasts in March said how bad things would be, politicians baulked, dithered, and tens of thousands of extra people died.
In September, SAGE recommended a two week national lockdown, the PM refused.
Instead we have seen lockdown, if not by stealth, but by increments as one area of the north of England after another is locked down ever tighter.
By estimates, there are now over 100,000 new cases every day, and the R rate in England is between 1.5 and 2.7, so we know this will rapidly go up, as those who will show symptoms next week are already infected, and some of those will go on to be next months daily deaths.
By the middle of Novemeber, the UK will be seeing 1,000 deaths a day. This is as a result of the climbing R rate and the mortality rate.
It is inevitable.
And yet the PM faces a daily battle with his backbenchers, the editors of Fleet Street and relaity in denying the inevitable lockdown.
It will come.
It will be longer and harsher than was needed had it been brought in back in September.
The same mistake as in March. Made by the same people who were in charge then. And those same people congratulated themselves, on record, on having done a good job.
So we enter the last six weeks if the Brexit tranisition period with a pandemic sweeping the country, closing the economy down.
Its gim now, but imagine how bad this will be in a month, or two?
All quiet on the Brexit front
There has been very little in the media national, international or social regarding Brexit. Talks of some kind are ongoing.
Some think we should see the radio silence as a good sign that seriousness has broken out.
I have written about Brexit long enough to know that we should never assign common sense to Brexit or the Brexiteers, because if common sense was ever a factor, we would still be a member of the EU.
Instead we hurtle towards full economic Brexit and the peak of a COVID second wave, with those employers still standing reeling from one to the other and not being aboe to mitigate for both, as hoarding supplies costs capital and mitigating against COVID means saving. They can't do both.
So, will there be a deal?
Makes some difference, but not a lot as the deal that may be struck will cover just some aspects of trade. It might eliminate tariffs, but I have always said those who talk about trade in just tariffs don't really understand the subject, as far more costly are no-tafiff barriers like rules, regulations and paperwork. Thos will b in place either with or wthout a deal, and will be crippling.
In order to administer both or either, the UK Government has to recruit 50,000 customs officials. An army of penpushers literally bigger than the actual army.
The realisation this week that restrictions on freedom of moement applies to UK citizens heading to Europe might make some think that the controls Johnson wants the EU will use too.
Of course they will. Trust or punative measurs that one applies will be applied by the other.
And remember, the more control you want, the less trade you will get. Its a simple choice, but the cost will be huge and will change the country for generations.
Some think we should see the radio silence as a good sign that seriousness has broken out.
I have written about Brexit long enough to know that we should never assign common sense to Brexit or the Brexiteers, because if common sense was ever a factor, we would still be a member of the EU.
Instead we hurtle towards full economic Brexit and the peak of a COVID second wave, with those employers still standing reeling from one to the other and not being aboe to mitigate for both, as hoarding supplies costs capital and mitigating against COVID means saving. They can't do both.
So, will there be a deal?
Makes some difference, but not a lot as the deal that may be struck will cover just some aspects of trade. It might eliminate tariffs, but I have always said those who talk about trade in just tariffs don't really understand the subject, as far more costly are no-tafiff barriers like rules, regulations and paperwork. Thos will b in place either with or wthout a deal, and will be crippling.
In order to administer both or either, the UK Government has to recruit 50,000 customs officials. An army of penpushers literally bigger than the actual army.
The realisation this week that restrictions on freedom of moement applies to UK citizens heading to Europe might make some think that the controls Johnson wants the EU will use too.
Of course they will. Trust or punative measurs that one applies will be applied by the other.
And remember, the more control you want, the less trade you will get. Its a simple choice, but the cost will be huge and will change the country for generations.
The great adventure ends
People don't like change.
I don't like change.
Really.
So, news of major changes at work is not really welcome.
Six and a half years ago, our little bit of the company was slipt off, and thanks to a joint venture with Mitsubishi we formed a new company. And in that time have forged our place in the market.
There has been missteps, but some triumphs too. Plans were in place for the new year and beyond.
And then.
Chnage.
This morning, we were told via mail, that our original empoyers had bought out the company, and in the next two months would be part of the parent company again.
It will probably be for the best, but it seems like a kick in the teeth, all this striving on our own, for the most part, now consigned to the history books.
So, tomorrow we begin our new journey, part of something larger than just us. There will be changes, some will lose their jobs, others will move to new roles. We just don't know what or when.
So, join me in raising a glass to the old company, one that gave me a chance and paid for a large part of Chez Jelltex.
I don't like change.
Really.
So, news of major changes at work is not really welcome.
Six and a half years ago, our little bit of the company was slipt off, and thanks to a joint venture with Mitsubishi we formed a new company. And in that time have forged our place in the market.
There has been missteps, but some triumphs too. Plans were in place for the new year and beyond.
And then.
Chnage.
This morning, we were told via mail, that our original empoyers had bought out the company, and in the next two months would be part of the parent company again.
It will probably be for the best, but it seems like a kick in the teeth, all this striving on our own, for the most part, now consigned to the history books.
So, tomorrow we begin our new journey, part of something larger than just us. There will be changes, some will lose their jobs, others will move to new roles. We just don't know what or when.
So, join me in raising a glass to the old company, one that gave me a chance and paid for a large part of Chez Jelltex.
Wednesday 28th October 2020
I read somewhere that we die twice. Once when our physical bodies passes away, and the second is when the last person on earth who remembers us, passes.
I think about this from time to time.
I once met the oldest person, at the time, in the UK, Ada Rowe, who died on January 11, 1970 but was born on February 6, 1858. She was 111 years old. I can remember visiting her house and being intorduced, but not really understanding.
But she had been born just after the Crimean War had ended, and she had known people who had been alve in the 18th century, easy to see by going back just two generations we are at a quite distant time already.
We hope that people will remember us for the good things about us, rather than the bad, I suppose.
I remember little about Ada other than she still lived in her terraced house in the centre of Lowestoft on Milton Road, near the High Street. I remember she was old, so old she was famous.
Yesterday we said goodbye to Betty, Jen's Mother. I thought about her life and the things she had seen in her long life.
Betty was born on Armistice Day 1919, one year after the Great War had ended, and she always associated her birthday with that, one of the hymns sung yesterday was one she remembered.
She was born in Newport, Wales in 1919, and moved to London after her Father died when she was just 15 years old. A few years later, war broke out and she met the love of her life, Fred, and moved to his home town, Bolton once the war ended. She raised three children, whilt working too, one job was as a clippy on the trams.
Wednesday was a grim day all round. Rain fell hard, then harder all day. It was a good day to have a funeral. Who wants to have warm sunshine on such a day?
I did a few hours at work, then stopped at half ten to have a shower and get ready.
The drive to Denton doesn't take long, just along the A2 past Lydden and Coldred. We arrived half an hou early, and watched as the rain got harder and harder, then a few mourners began to arrive.
Numbers are limited to 15 for a wedding, but 30 for a funeral. Makes no sense to me, but there you go. There was ten of us, three of her family had come from Wales, including her sister who is five years younger. They made them tough in South Wales.
The herse arrived, and Jen. We wait in the rain as the coffin was taken out, then file in behind Bet, half the pews were in use, and we used less than half of those.
Not much else to say, really, other than Betty is now at peace, and out of pain, which is all that matters. Her final weeks were filled with pain as her body failed, that is now at an end.
We drove back to Whitfield to be with Jen, rain fell in Biblical amounts, turning the roads into rivers, then into lakes, we splashed our way back towards Dover.
We stayed the afternoon to be with Jen and just talk.
And that was that.
We arrived home with the rain still falling and getting dark well before five.
I cooked aubergine for dinner. We had two good sized fruit, and they filled us up.
We had the radio on, I followed the football until nine, when I was too tired to care who won or lost. We went to bed.
I think about this from time to time.
I once met the oldest person, at the time, in the UK, Ada Rowe, who died on January 11, 1970 but was born on February 6, 1858. She was 111 years old. I can remember visiting her house and being intorduced, but not really understanding.
But she had been born just after the Crimean War had ended, and she had known people who had been alve in the 18th century, easy to see by going back just two generations we are at a quite distant time already.
We hope that people will remember us for the good things about us, rather than the bad, I suppose.
I remember little about Ada other than she still lived in her terraced house in the centre of Lowestoft on Milton Road, near the High Street. I remember she was old, so old she was famous.
Yesterday we said goodbye to Betty, Jen's Mother. I thought about her life and the things she had seen in her long life.
Betty was born on Armistice Day 1919, one year after the Great War had ended, and she always associated her birthday with that, one of the hymns sung yesterday was one she remembered.
She was born in Newport, Wales in 1919, and moved to London after her Father died when she was just 15 years old. A few years later, war broke out and she met the love of her life, Fred, and moved to his home town, Bolton once the war ended. She raised three children, whilt working too, one job was as a clippy on the trams.Wednesday was a grim day all round. Rain fell hard, then harder all day. It was a good day to have a funeral. Who wants to have warm sunshine on such a day?
I did a few hours at work, then stopped at half ten to have a shower and get ready.
The drive to Denton doesn't take long, just along the A2 past Lydden and Coldred. We arrived half an hou early, and watched as the rain got harder and harder, then a few mourners began to arrive.
Numbers are limited to 15 for a wedding, but 30 for a funeral. Makes no sense to me, but there you go. There was ten of us, three of her family had come from Wales, including her sister who is five years younger. They made them tough in South Wales.
The herse arrived, and Jen. We wait in the rain as the coffin was taken out, then file in behind Bet, half the pews were in use, and we used less than half of those.Not much else to say, really, other than Betty is now at peace, and out of pain, which is all that matters. Her final weeks were filled with pain as her body failed, that is now at an end.
We drove back to Whitfield to be with Jen, rain fell in Biblical amounts, turning the roads into rivers, then into lakes, we splashed our way back towards Dover.
We stayed the afternoon to be with Jen and just talk.
And that was that.
We arrived home with the rain still falling and getting dark well before five.
I cooked aubergine for dinner. We had two good sized fruit, and they filled us up.
We had the radio on, I followed the football until nine, when I was too tired to care who won or lost. We went to bed.
Wednesday 28 October 2020
Riding the second wave
Today, 28th October 2020, the following figures were released:
Daily new cases: 22,885
death: 367
Chris Witty was mocked when he suggested that we would be seeing 200 deaths by the end of October.
Well, that showed the right wing talk show hosts who thought they knew more about a pandemic than actual experts.
And last Saturday there was another march by anti-masker in London.
Wankers, the lot of them.
As of Tonight, Germmany is locking down for four weeks with just schools and shops remaining open, all places of entertainment to close. France is doing similar.
Meanwhile in the UK, more areas of the north are moving into the ineffective 3rd tier. A 4th will soon come, and maybe then a 5th, and then a lockdown, but by then, thousands of extra deaths would have been assured,
So, well done Boris, for not learning from the lessons from back in March.
There is talk of laws being changed so that the police can raid a house if they suspect a party of more than 6 is taking place. It is because many have said they will ignore a "rule of six" over Christmas.
I don't know what's worse, knowing what is to come with Brexit or COVID. Both is bad for your mental halth. But we are to offer some clarity to people we have spoken to in the last week over what to expect and why harsher lockdowns are coming. I keep thinking of poor Sylv who thought it was all going to be over in two weeks.
I say again, these next few weeks are going to be hard, harder still with the short days, poor weather and even the hope of Christmas being snuffed out.
Look after each other, peeps.
Daily new cases: 22,885
death: 367
Chris Witty was mocked when he suggested that we would be seeing 200 deaths by the end of October.
Well, that showed the right wing talk show hosts who thought they knew more about a pandemic than actual experts.
And last Saturday there was another march by anti-masker in London.
Wankers, the lot of them.
As of Tonight, Germmany is locking down for four weeks with just schools and shops remaining open, all places of entertainment to close. France is doing similar.
Meanwhile in the UK, more areas of the north are moving into the ineffective 3rd tier. A 4th will soon come, and maybe then a 5th, and then a lockdown, but by then, thousands of extra deaths would have been assured,
So, well done Boris, for not learning from the lessons from back in March.
There is talk of laws being changed so that the police can raid a house if they suspect a party of more than 6 is taking place. It is because many have said they will ignore a "rule of six" over Christmas.
I don't know what's worse, knowing what is to come with Brexit or COVID. Both is bad for your mental halth. But we are to offer some clarity to people we have spoken to in the last week over what to expect and why harsher lockdowns are coming. I keep thinking of poor Sylv who thought it was all going to be over in two weeks.
I say again, these next few weeks are going to be hard, harder still with the short days, poor weather and even the hope of Christmas being snuffed out.
Look after each other, peeps.
Tuesday 27th October 2020
Beer day.
I have dreamed for over 30 years of being the beneficiary of my parent's estate, what I would do when the money came to me. I really did. Back then, two hundred grand, which is what my parents house was worth for the best part of twenty of those year, would have gone a long way. Even with the lifetime mortgage to pay out, there was enough to pay ors off, and there should be some left over.
And so, the thought always has been, that then would come years of working, earning and saving squillions of pounds.
But the reality is, that just as we have become debt free, Brexit is going to happen. All our pension investments are based on what used to be normal. And then there is COVID on top of that, there might never be normal again.
We have free cash now, but what should we invest it in: gold, silver, potato futures? I have no idea.
There is talk of banks offereing negative interest rates, or charging you for looking after your own money. And now there is talk of charging for anything more than a basic savings account. I know we are luckier than most, but our next egg will shrink.
Our plans to retire in five years will have to be put on hold, probably.
And yet, there is a chance that things might not turn out bad. The new reality on January 1st might only be temporary until common sense takes over. But then we have been relying on our old friend common sense to save us from Brexit for four years.
And here we are.
But for now, we carry on.
And it is pay day. And its mostly all ours. We squirrel away a fair bit of it.
Jools' bother, Mike, had to go into hospital for an operation, and with him needing to be get to Canterbury and Jane on critches after her ankle operation, Jools said she would take him.
Meaning the alarm went off at five, so she could leave home at twenty past six to get him there on time.
It was dark at five.
It was darkish at six, but getting light.
A little.
I get up at six, Jools makes coffee, gets dressed and is gone. I know I should go on the cross trainer, and so I do. And step up the time by two whole minutes, put the radio on and get going.
It wasn't that bad, but not that good either. I get it done, then have a shower to be ready for work at eight, breakfast made and eaten along with a fresh coffee.
I have my nw task to get into; calibration, so fire off e mails, and start a new spreadsheet. Making a spreadsheet gives you the impression of being in control.
Jools returns at half ten, laden with crispbakes, macarons and chocolate. I make a coffee and we have some peanut butter stuffed chocolate bar.
It was good, we both agreed, but also left the second bar uneaten.
Last week I found a good vendor in the UK of Belgian beers, so placed an order for 5 bottles thanks to someone putting money in my Paypal account, meaning it felt like it cost me nothing I mean who doesn;t like the thought of free tripel Belgian beer?
And Tueday it was delivered, meaning I had 5 bottles of the Chimay blue, Grande Reserve, and now have at least one bottle of it from 2016 to 2020.
I'll need a good reason to open the single bottle of 2016!
And I also took receipt of a box of Stella, in leiu of payment for the talk on orchids did a week ago.
Swimming in beer!
Lunch is cheese toasties, with huge brews. Of course.
The afternoon is all meetings, which sap my enthusiasm.
Jools get the call from the hosital at three, so we both go to pick Mike up. He is sore, but OK, but is not allowed to drive as he had a genral.
We drop him off them am at the door to the chippy at half four to pick up dinner, take it back to Mike and Jane's.
We eat well, and talk about life and where it has taken us all.
Obviously it is dark outside, and heavy rain hammers down, so we get wet when we leave, and rivers of runoff pour down the hill as we drive up to Tesco.
Back home we feed the cats, put the kettle on and have brews, before I put the tele on to follow the evening's football.
Norwich were away at Brentford, but the live game was Wycombe v Watford, whch ends 1-1, as does the Norwich game.
The rain continues to pour down outside.
We go to bed.
I almost forgot. OK, I did. But the big news is that Jools is to return to work on Monday, full time at first, as the furlough scheme is coming to an end.
Jools is overjoyed at the thought of being productive once again, and for me, I will be alone in the house with just the cats and kittens for company.
Anyway, so for the next couple of days, just enjoying being together at home until it changes next week.
I have dreamed for over 30 years of being the beneficiary of my parent's estate, what I would do when the money came to me. I really did. Back then, two hundred grand, which is what my parents house was worth for the best part of twenty of those year, would have gone a long way. Even with the lifetime mortgage to pay out, there was enough to pay ors off, and there should be some left over.
And so, the thought always has been, that then would come years of working, earning and saving squillions of pounds.
But the reality is, that just as we have become debt free, Brexit is going to happen. All our pension investments are based on what used to be normal. And then there is COVID on top of that, there might never be normal again.
We have free cash now, but what should we invest it in: gold, silver, potato futures? I have no idea.
There is talk of banks offereing negative interest rates, or charging you for looking after your own money. And now there is talk of charging for anything more than a basic savings account. I know we are luckier than most, but our next egg will shrink.
Our plans to retire in five years will have to be put on hold, probably.
And yet, there is a chance that things might not turn out bad. The new reality on January 1st might only be temporary until common sense takes over. But then we have been relying on our old friend common sense to save us from Brexit for four years.
And here we are.
But for now, we carry on.
And it is pay day. And its mostly all ours. We squirrel away a fair bit of it.
Jools' bother, Mike, had to go into hospital for an operation, and with him needing to be get to Canterbury and Jane on critches after her ankle operation, Jools said she would take him.
Meaning the alarm went off at five, so she could leave home at twenty past six to get him there on time.
It was dark at five.
It was darkish at six, but getting light.
A little.
I get up at six, Jools makes coffee, gets dressed and is gone. I know I should go on the cross trainer, and so I do. And step up the time by two whole minutes, put the radio on and get going.
It wasn't that bad, but not that good either. I get it done, then have a shower to be ready for work at eight, breakfast made and eaten along with a fresh coffee.
I have my nw task to get into; calibration, so fire off e mails, and start a new spreadsheet. Making a spreadsheet gives you the impression of being in control.
Jools returns at half ten, laden with crispbakes, macarons and chocolate. I make a coffee and we have some peanut butter stuffed chocolate bar.
It was good, we both agreed, but also left the second bar uneaten.Last week I found a good vendor in the UK of Belgian beers, so placed an order for 5 bottles thanks to someone putting money in my Paypal account, meaning it felt like it cost me nothing I mean who doesn;t like the thought of free tripel Belgian beer?
And Tueday it was delivered, meaning I had 5 bottles of the Chimay blue, Grande Reserve, and now have at least one bottle of it from 2016 to 2020.
I'll need a good reason to open the single bottle of 2016!And I also took receipt of a box of Stella, in leiu of payment for the talk on orchids did a week ago.
Swimming in beer!Lunch is cheese toasties, with huge brews. Of course.
The afternoon is all meetings, which sap my enthusiasm.
Jools get the call from the hosital at three, so we both go to pick Mike up. He is sore, but OK, but is not allowed to drive as he had a genral.
We drop him off them am at the door to the chippy at half four to pick up dinner, take it back to Mike and Jane's.
We eat well, and talk about life and where it has taken us all.
Obviously it is dark outside, and heavy rain hammers down, so we get wet when we leave, and rivers of runoff pour down the hill as we drive up to Tesco.
Back home we feed the cats, put the kettle on and have brews, before I put the tele on to follow the evening's football.
Norwich were away at Brentford, but the live game was Wycombe v Watford, whch ends 1-1, as does the Norwich game.
The rain continues to pour down outside.
We go to bed.
I almost forgot. OK, I did. But the big news is that Jools is to return to work on Monday, full time at first, as the furlough scheme is coming to an end.
Jools is overjoyed at the thought of being productive once again, and for me, I will be alone in the house with just the cats and kittens for company.
Anyway, so for the next couple of days, just enjoying being together at home until it changes next week.
Enough of your (soy) sauce
The bakers used a lot of soya (sic) sauce in the first challenge on #GBBO, so it's a good thing it will be made cheaper thanks to our trade deal with Japan.
Said the official Twitter feed of the Department for International Trade, which trade guru Liz Truss runs (!).
Only:
Soy sauce imports from Japan currently has zero tariffs.
Under a no deal it would have a 6% tafiff.
The just concluded light deal reduces tariffs for soy sauce to the same level it is currently as we have as an EU member.
So, the deal, at best, leaves this as it currently is. Not improves.
And shows the reality of no deal is increases in prices. Increase prices on many more things than just soy sauce. And shows that a Government department is only too willing to be economical with the truth to suit its political masters. But was thankfully, repeatedly challenged by trade people on Twitter and two clarifications had to be issued.
When the penny sinks in this is the reality, I think there will be quite some anger.
Said the official Twitter feed of the Department for International Trade, which trade guru Liz Truss runs (!).
Only:
Soy sauce imports from Japan currently has zero tariffs.
Under a no deal it would have a 6% tafiff.
The just concluded light deal reduces tariffs for soy sauce to the same level it is currently as we have as an EU member.
So, the deal, at best, leaves this as it currently is. Not improves.
And shows the reality of no deal is increases in prices. Increase prices on many more things than just soy sauce. And shows that a Government department is only too willing to be economical with the truth to suit its political masters. But was thankfully, repeatedly challenged by trade people on Twitter and two clarifications had to be issued.
When the penny sinks in this is the reality, I think there will be quite some anger.
Crocodile tears and mealy mouthed words
Yesterday, four people drowned in the English Channel off the coast of France when their dingy capzised. Two of the dead were children.
Later, both the Prime Minister and Home Secretary released statements on how sad and sorry they were.
And yet both are at least partly responsible.
There is no legal way for a refugeee to claim aslyum before they arrive in the UK, the Government have closed down all legal ways, even for children whose parents are here. This is being nasty for being nasty's sake.
Last month, the UK appointed a zsar to stop such crossings, and a floating wall or wave machine were suggested in order to disrupt crossings, and put people's lives in danger.
The PM chose to blame people smugglers, and vowed to close that route down into the country. It is the only way at the moment. Nothing about how their actions had contributed to the deaths. Rather like the events in Greece a few years back, all talk of using gunships to stop crossings until the corpse of a toddler was photographed having been washed up on a beach.
This is the reality of the "hostile environment", actually killing people. Killing their hope before that.
This period has seen some shameful acts by our elected officals, but blaming everyone else other than themselves for the consequences of their policy decisions is perhaps the worse.
Later, both the Prime Minister and Home Secretary released statements on how sad and sorry they were.
And yet both are at least partly responsible.
There is no legal way for a refugeee to claim aslyum before they arrive in the UK, the Government have closed down all legal ways, even for children whose parents are here. This is being nasty for being nasty's sake.
Last month, the UK appointed a zsar to stop such crossings, and a floating wall or wave machine were suggested in order to disrupt crossings, and put people's lives in danger.
The PM chose to blame people smugglers, and vowed to close that route down into the country. It is the only way at the moment. Nothing about how their actions had contributed to the deaths. Rather like the events in Greece a few years back, all talk of using gunships to stop crossings until the corpse of a toddler was photographed having been washed up on a beach.
This is the reality of the "hostile environment", actually killing people. Killing their hope before that.
This period has seen some shameful acts by our elected officals, but blaming everyone else other than themselves for the consequences of their policy decisions is perhaps the worse.
Tuesday 27 October 2020
Monday 26th October 2020
Back to work.
How quickly the weekend flies, even when you don't do much.
Soon enough it is Monday morning, gets light an hour earlier, but even still, at then past five, it were still dark. Darker than my ex-wives personalities.
But that's another story.
I said I would start phys again, and after three days off over the weekend, I am back on it at half six, like I've never been away. Though the new trainer is an instrument of torture, not pleasant in any way.
But here we are.
I do a session, building up to 20 minutes in due course, but not yet.
I plan to do another in the afternoon, which I don't see through, but that's for another day. Or week.
I am dressed and ready for work, and the early meeting of the team, sharing the news, and in Denmark there are new restrictions too, though nothing on the scale we have here.
I have a new task, to delve into calibration, so I am handed a spreadsheet and the ISO requirements.
And off I go.
Autumn has arrived, frequent showers, strong winds and barely getting light. There is ittle point in going out, no gardening to do, no photos to take, just work to do.
We have sausages and cold mashed potato left over, so I cook a fry up for lunch, with additional baked beans and some fried bread.
Yummy.
And back to work, and all the while rain falls hard outside, scattered around the house, various cats and kittens sleep.
I did not do an afternoon's sesseion on the cross trainer, I should have, but I was still full of fry up. Once it was dark, we have chese, crackers and I had a large glass of tripel, which all went down very well.
Watched Burnely v Spurs in the evening, just about managed to stay awake, and Spurs nicked it at the end.
How quickly the weekend flies, even when you don't do much.
Soon enough it is Monday morning, gets light an hour earlier, but even still, at then past five, it were still dark. Darker than my ex-wives personalities.
But that's another story.I said I would start phys again, and after three days off over the weekend, I am back on it at half six, like I've never been away. Though the new trainer is an instrument of torture, not pleasant in any way.
But here we are.
I do a session, building up to 20 minutes in due course, but not yet.
I plan to do another in the afternoon, which I don't see through, but that's for another day. Or week.
I am dressed and ready for work, and the early meeting of the team, sharing the news, and in Denmark there are new restrictions too, though nothing on the scale we have here.
I have a new task, to delve into calibration, so I am handed a spreadsheet and the ISO requirements.And off I go.
Autumn has arrived, frequent showers, strong winds and barely getting light. There is ittle point in going out, no gardening to do, no photos to take, just work to do.
We have sausages and cold mashed potato left over, so I cook a fry up for lunch, with additional baked beans and some fried bread.Yummy.
And back to work, and all the while rain falls hard outside, scattered around the house, various cats and kittens sleep.
I did not do an afternoon's sesseion on the cross trainer, I should have, but I was still full of fry up. Once it was dark, we have chese, crackers and I had a large glass of tripel, which all went down very well.
Watched Burnely v Spurs in the evening, just about managed to stay awake, and Spurs nicked it at the end.
Attacking (the) footballer
So, this morning, a friend on FB shared a story pointing out how much Marcus Rashford earns as a professional footballer, and how he and his mates could get together they could pay for free school meals for hungry poor children.
CCHQ spent the weekend thinking of an attack line on this, rather than do the right thing, of course. And now we know what their line is.
And they are partly right, leaving to most working class kids made good, rather than the millionaire and billionaire club owners to pay, and certainly pointing the way away from Central Government's role in this.
A reminder, the money this would cost is tiny, and we in the UK and wider world, are living through unprecedented times and that those at the bottom should have some help. Coming from the same people who used the country's purse to build duck houses or clear the moat(!) of their huge country houses. Some MPs earn hundreds of thousands of pounds a year for a handful of hours work a week as consultants, lining their pockets on top of what we, the tax payer rewards them.
So, this is the way it will be, know your place, keep quiet, and forfeit your rights.
CCHQ spent the weekend thinking of an attack line on this, rather than do the right thing, of course. And now we know what their line is.
And they are partly right, leaving to most working class kids made good, rather than the millionaire and billionaire club owners to pay, and certainly pointing the way away from Central Government's role in this.
A reminder, the money this would cost is tiny, and we in the UK and wider world, are living through unprecedented times and that those at the bottom should have some help. Coming from the same people who used the country's purse to build duck houses or clear the moat(!) of their huge country houses. Some MPs earn hundreds of thousands of pounds a year for a handful of hours work a week as consultants, lining their pockets on top of what we, the tax payer rewards them.
So, this is the way it will be, know your place, keep quiet, and forfeit your rights.
Covering fire
During the first eight months of the pandemic, the UK (in the NHS, care homes and elsewhere) used 533,000 isolation suites (coveralls). At the same time the UK Government has procured 29,000,000 more, or 36 year’s supply at the cost of £700,000,000.
For an item that has a shelf life of just three years, maximum.
More than a dozen multi-million pound contracts mostly with unknown or start up companies with little or no experience with medical PPE procurement was handed out without the lgally required tender process and without scrutiny.
In some cases, what was supplied was not within specification and so cannot be used, whilst others have not even been checked for suitability. And yet the Government has not sought to recover the costs.
The same tenderless process and without scrutiny is now being used by different Government departments for Brexit deliverables.
And at the same time, the Government is refusing to spend £20,000,000 on feeding the poorest hungry schoolchildren through the current half term holiday and at Christmas. Such expenditure represents a few days cost of “eat out to help out”, for which most of the poorest could not take advantage of as eating out even with a tenner knocked off was unaffordable.
This is where the Johnson Government is, corruption in open sight. Buying 36 year’s supply of equipment with a 3 year shelf life, paying consultants £7,000 a day to run the failing track and trace system, and yet feeding the poor creates a dependency culture.
Apparently.
For an item that has a shelf life of just three years, maximum.
More than a dozen multi-million pound contracts mostly with unknown or start up companies with little or no experience with medical PPE procurement was handed out without the lgally required tender process and without scrutiny.
In some cases, what was supplied was not within specification and so cannot be used, whilst others have not even been checked for suitability. And yet the Government has not sought to recover the costs.
The same tenderless process and without scrutiny is now being used by different Government departments for Brexit deliverables.
And at the same time, the Government is refusing to spend £20,000,000 on feeding the poorest hungry schoolchildren through the current half term holiday and at Christmas. Such expenditure represents a few days cost of “eat out to help out”, for which most of the poorest could not take advantage of as eating out even with a tenner knocked off was unaffordable.
This is where the Johnson Government is, corruption in open sight. Buying 36 year’s supply of equipment with a 3 year shelf life, paying consultants £7,000 a day to run the failing track and trace system, and yet feeding the poor creates a dependency culture.
Apparently.
Monday 26 October 2020
Sunday 25th October 2020
Two months until Christmas.
Just in case you haven't put your sprouts on to boil yet.
Sunday was expected to be wet and windy. And indeed it started off with rain lashing down, but at least the wind had dropped. And of course the sun rose an hour earlier, so I laid in bed as dawn broke, wondering if I should turn my light on to check the time, or just enoy staying under the duvet to avoid the chill of the bedroom.
With football being spread over four days of a weekend these days, I don't watch MOTD much now, but there was the Championship to catch up on as Norwich did win, though it was just the goals.
Breakfast was fruit with bacon butties mid morning, with brews during and between. You'd expect nothing less.
With the weather not good for going out, and as there was another downpour at nine, so I scrubbed the trip to Folkestone for a haircut, instead I made a cake. Because, cake.
I made an adaption on a lemon drizzle cake, but with no lemons I made it with lemon juice and thick cut marmalade, and although it took an hour to cook before the centre was done, and then the hour wait until it was cool enough to cut, made a brew, and the quality control test:
Oh, fabulous cake. Not too sweet, and the use of poppy seeds added texture.
At two the first of the two games kicked off, and in the first 5 minutes was better than the whole of the Man Utd v Chelski game on Saturday. Southampton put league=leaders Everton to the sword. Only won 2-0, but if it was a boxing match would have been stopped. Great game, and that was followed by Wolves v Newcastle, which not as good, the Toon team had a couple of ex-Norwich players, as did Southampton in the first game. Anyway, that ended 1-1, but by that time, I was hungry so cooked bangers and mash and beans for supper.
Yummy.
And that was it: dark at quarter past five, and hoofing down with rain all evening.
I went to bed at half nine, and fell asleep with the sound of the rain bouncing off the car port roof.
Just in case you haven't put your sprouts on to boil yet.
Sunday was expected to be wet and windy. And indeed it started off with rain lashing down, but at least the wind had dropped. And of course the sun rose an hour earlier, so I laid in bed as dawn broke, wondering if I should turn my light on to check the time, or just enoy staying under the duvet to avoid the chill of the bedroom.
With football being spread over four days of a weekend these days, I don't watch MOTD much now, but there was the Championship to catch up on as Norwich did win, though it was just the goals.Breakfast was fruit with bacon butties mid morning, with brews during and between. You'd expect nothing less.
With the weather not good for going out, and as there was another downpour at nine, so I scrubbed the trip to Folkestone for a haircut, instead I made a cake. Because, cake.
I made an adaption on a lemon drizzle cake, but with no lemons I made it with lemon juice and thick cut marmalade, and although it took an hour to cook before the centre was done, and then the hour wait until it was cool enough to cut, made a brew, and the quality control test:
Oh, fabulous cake. Not too sweet, and the use of poppy seeds added texture.
At two the first of the two games kicked off, and in the first 5 minutes was better than the whole of the Man Utd v Chelski game on Saturday. Southampton put league=leaders Everton to the sword. Only won 2-0, but if it was a boxing match would have been stopped. Great game, and that was followed by Wolves v Newcastle, which not as good, the Toon team had a couple of ex-Norwich players, as did Southampton in the first game. Anyway, that ended 1-1, but by that time, I was hungry so cooked bangers and mash and beans for supper.Yummy.
And that was it: dark at quarter past five, and hoofing down with rain all evening.
I went to bed at half nine, and fell asleep with the sound of the rain bouncing off the car port roof.
Remain in light
Trending on Twitter this morning is “remainer”, as apparently, some bed-wetting Brexiteer has blamed those who voted against Brexit and pointing it out again and again what a colossal bad idea it was, was, in fat, the root cause of why we have ended up with a hard or no deal Brexit.
Are they suggesting such an end point is a bad idea, then?
We are at this point because the then PM, Theresa May said that Brexit meant leaving the SM and CU. From that point on it was a hard Brexit we were heading for.
If, as a country, the UK is out of either, this creates a regulatory border and will create checks, paperwork, delays and costs.
It really is that simple.
And leaving both and then accepting that you need a border, its just a case of where the border will be.
Again, very simple.
In Ireland, it is either along the border or in the Irish Sea. One or the other. Don’t like those choices then choose no border by be in the SM and CU.
Simple.
Vote Leave and Leave.EU won the referendum, Vote Leave is basically the Cabinet now, they have made the choices, no one, least of all May or Johnson, reached out to build bridges, we were told, you lost, get over it. We did, though will point out when what we said would happen, the things you said were project fear, actually happen, every fucking time, in a voice loud enough to be heard on the fucking moon.
In fact, I had to point out to a friend who asked, how can the UK sign a trade deal with Japan when it is still a member of the EU? We left the EU at the end of January 2020, but the transition agreement means it feels like we haven’t left. That was political Brexit. Economic Brexit will happen on January 1st next year, and I say with a high degree of confidence, we will notice.
We remainers can be blamed for some things, but will not accept being blamed for Brexit or it being hard or no deal. It simply isn’t true. We have the receipts, the old tweets and referendum literature. We know. You know.
You won, get over it, and take responsibility.
Brexit has been quiet for a few days now. Talks are ongoing, but no news has been leaked, which is a good sign, possibly. We shall see.
Just sayin’.
Are they suggesting such an end point is a bad idea, then?
We are at this point because the then PM, Theresa May said that Brexit meant leaving the SM and CU. From that point on it was a hard Brexit we were heading for.
If, as a country, the UK is out of either, this creates a regulatory border and will create checks, paperwork, delays and costs.
It really is that simple.
And leaving both and then accepting that you need a border, its just a case of where the border will be.
Again, very simple.
In Ireland, it is either along the border or in the Irish Sea. One or the other. Don’t like those choices then choose no border by be in the SM and CU.
Simple.
Vote Leave and Leave.EU won the referendum, Vote Leave is basically the Cabinet now, they have made the choices, no one, least of all May or Johnson, reached out to build bridges, we were told, you lost, get over it. We did, though will point out when what we said would happen, the things you said were project fear, actually happen, every fucking time, in a voice loud enough to be heard on the fucking moon.
In fact, I had to point out to a friend who asked, how can the UK sign a trade deal with Japan when it is still a member of the EU? We left the EU at the end of January 2020, but the transition agreement means it feels like we haven’t left. That was political Brexit. Economic Brexit will happen on January 1st next year, and I say with a high degree of confidence, we will notice.
We remainers can be blamed for some things, but will not accept being blamed for Brexit or it being hard or no deal. It simply isn’t true. We have the receipts, the old tweets and referendum literature. We know. You know.
You won, get over it, and take responsibility.
Brexit has been quiet for a few days now. Talks are ongoing, but no news has been leaked, which is a good sign, possibly. We shall see.
Just sayin’.
Sunday 25 October 2020
Misjudging the crowd
Conservative MPs have spent the weekend trying to defend their position in refusing to pay for school meals for hungry poor children outsie or term times.
A petition has reached 800,000 names and will force a new debate in the Commons, and after the £25,000 food subsidy each MPs gets a year to spend in the subsidised restaurants in Parliament, the mood in the country is nasty.
Thing is, the UK is addicted to charity.
Charity is a good thing, people who have little give some of what they can't afford to help those in even more dire straights. Thing is, we shouldn't have to. UK taxplayers pay more than enough to fund the NHS, free medicines, free schools, dentistry, school books, and on and on and on. Just that MPs choose not to.
In Germany there is little charity and people feel they pay enough in taxes, as do we. Charity lets the Government off the hook in allowing them to divert money to where its needed to paying themselves more or for advisors or think tanks of whatever. And this is just accepted. Maybe because most don't realise it is this way, but a decade after the expense scandal, eyes are turning to the way MPs fund themselves and their lifestyles, and they might force yet another Government u turn.
But it is probably too late, espeically with many stating in mails, interviews or newspaper columns that supporting the poor would make them dependent.
On food.
I mean, food for children, for poor children, who would otherwise go hungry in school holidays because of a global pandemic should not be an issue for debate. And yet for some on the right, it is.
The Sunday papers today reported on the prce paid by the sick and elderly who were shipped out of hospitals last March into care homes to die a slow and lonely death. It might not be that bad this time round, but not by much Those who died did so, so that MPs could say that the NHS was protected and was not overrun. Matt Hancock may as well tied 20,000 OAPs to the west coast mainline and let a train run over them, the slaughter was just the same.
And the point in all this is that the people who made the wrong calls at the wrong time killing tens of thousands are still in post today, and for the most part don't seem to have learned anything. Lockdowns too little too late. The thousands of people who will die of COVID in November already have the disease.
Meanwhile, in Wales, the Welsh assembly have deemed that people can only buy "essential" goods now there is the firebreak lockdown, resulting in whole aisles in supermarkets out of bounds, and people not able to buy such non-essentials as clothes, electrical goods, pens and so on. There is no legally defined list of what is essential, and shops in the same chain in different parts of the country are defining non-essential in dofferent ways. Pens are essential in some, but not in others.
This is done to protect those specialist shops that had to close, so no one can go to a supermarket. But you can buy stuff online of course, and have it delivered, meaning Jeff Bozos makes even more money, and the local branches and local shops both lose out.
And finally, neaws leaked today that the UK Government is preparing 4th tier of restrictions as I predicted only yesterday.
I hate being right.
A petition has reached 800,000 names and will force a new debate in the Commons, and after the £25,000 food subsidy each MPs gets a year to spend in the subsidised restaurants in Parliament, the mood in the country is nasty.
Thing is, the UK is addicted to charity.
Charity is a good thing, people who have little give some of what they can't afford to help those in even more dire straights. Thing is, we shouldn't have to. UK taxplayers pay more than enough to fund the NHS, free medicines, free schools, dentistry, school books, and on and on and on. Just that MPs choose not to.
In Germany there is little charity and people feel they pay enough in taxes, as do we. Charity lets the Government off the hook in allowing them to divert money to where its needed to paying themselves more or for advisors or think tanks of whatever. And this is just accepted. Maybe because most don't realise it is this way, but a decade after the expense scandal, eyes are turning to the way MPs fund themselves and their lifestyles, and they might force yet another Government u turn.
But it is probably too late, espeically with many stating in mails, interviews or newspaper columns that supporting the poor would make them dependent.
On food.
I mean, food for children, for poor children, who would otherwise go hungry in school holidays because of a global pandemic should not be an issue for debate. And yet for some on the right, it is.
The Sunday papers today reported on the prce paid by the sick and elderly who were shipped out of hospitals last March into care homes to die a slow and lonely death. It might not be that bad this time round, but not by much Those who died did so, so that MPs could say that the NHS was protected and was not overrun. Matt Hancock may as well tied 20,000 OAPs to the west coast mainline and let a train run over them, the slaughter was just the same.
And the point in all this is that the people who made the wrong calls at the wrong time killing tens of thousands are still in post today, and for the most part don't seem to have learned anything. Lockdowns too little too late. The thousands of people who will die of COVID in November already have the disease.
Meanwhile, in Wales, the Welsh assembly have deemed that people can only buy "essential" goods now there is the firebreak lockdown, resulting in whole aisles in supermarkets out of bounds, and people not able to buy such non-essentials as clothes, electrical goods, pens and so on. There is no legally defined list of what is essential, and shops in the same chain in different parts of the country are defining non-essential in dofferent ways. Pens are essential in some, but not in others.
This is done to protect those specialist shops that had to close, so no one can go to a supermarket. But you can buy stuff online of course, and have it delivered, meaning Jeff Bozos makes even more money, and the local branches and local shops both lose out.
And finally, neaws leaked today that the UK Government is preparing 4th tier of restrictions as I predicted only yesterday.
I hate being right.
Saturday 24th October 2020
The last day of British Summer Time (BST). Clocks go back at 02:00 Sunday.
This will be a long hard winter, with little light. I hope I am wrong, but I suspect I am right. By the time BST returns at the end of March Britain will be a very different place, but it will be, at least, Spring.
The last day of summer time was destined to bring us storms, strong winds and driving rain, but not until later in the afternoon and overnight, which meant we could go out and visit places.
We are not great shoppers, so no need to go to Ashford, Westwood Cross or even Canterbury, but the odd attractive village perhaps, and maybe an attractive church or two? And a walk in the country, because, if nothing else, COVID has not closed them down.
Yet.
And one of the best and closest reserves is Stodmarsh, on the southern banks of the Great Stour downstream fro Canterbury. But unlike places like Westbere on the other side of the river, Stodmarsh is on a road much less travelled, and so out of the way, you do not come here by accident.
Which is a shame as it is a rather nice place, and has a fine looking pub, as I was to see. Although I had been here twice before, not really walked round the village, other than the small church.
To get to Stodmarsh is easy enough, just go to Preston, take the road to Grove Ferry and left at the cross roads, and across the fields and into the shallow valley and you arrive. And so should have been simple, and was until we drove past the butcher and came to turn down the Grove Ferry road only to find road closed signs.
No problem, we could get past from the other side, but this did mean going down the road through Stourmarsh and Pluck's Gutter to Monkton, then back towards Canterbury through Sarre and down the Gover Ferry road.
Only, as the main road left Sarre, I saw a freight train, rare in Kent these days, and it was clearly a balast train for track replacement, meaning, correctly as it turned out, that the road closure would be at the level crossing at Grove Ferry, and so we would have to go round to Preston. Again.
Which is how it turned out.
An hour late we pulled into the reserve car park, found that due to COVID those were closed. But, after putting on our walking boots we set off through the woods and out onto the marsh beyond, through the reedbeds, eyes peeled for any wildlife we might see. I was hoping to see Bearded Tits, aka Bearded Reedlings, as I had never seen them before, and at this time of year they collect gravel from paths to fill their gizzards to grind up older plant material. But saw none of those either.
But I did see a Kingfisher. I say "saw", I mean as we left the wood, to the right I saw a flash of blue as one took off, and did not return, though I did hear it calling as we shuffled along the muddy track, trying not to fall over.
There were a few flowers hanging on, a hogweed and a couple of dandelion hawkbits and a thistle too. We disturned an upset Grey Heron which leapt into the air then used its huge wings to fly away to a quieter part of the reserve.
Near to the river it got too muddy to go on, so we turned back for the car park, and into the teeth of the freshening breeze which was turn to severe gales by the end of the day. Over Canterbury sheets of rain could be seen, so time for home.
Back at the car, I drove to the centre of Stodmarsh and tried the church door. To no one's surprise, it was locked. It is a small church, but I wanted to rephotograph the unique support for the bellcote, but that will have to wait until next year.
We drove back to the main road then through Wingham where I wanted to visit Wickhambreaux to photograph the town and church. I went to the church first and saw the porch door open, a gentleman was clearing the churchyard of dead plants, I asked if the church was open. It was unlocked, but he would prefer it if I did not go in, I could see the inner door ajar. I wanted to argue, but left it. I have been there before, so not essential, but it would have been nice to do one church.
Not today.
As I walked back to the car the rain came, drizzle at first, driven to feel like hail by the wind. I put my cameras in the boot and climb in.
Let's go home.
So we do.
Only I got the idea to stop off on the Sandwich bypass for some dirty food from the greasy spoon. He was open and serving, but after parking and going to the hatch he told us he was maxed out with orders and could not serve us. A builder stood nearby and must have come with a large order for his friends.
So we got back in the car and drove home, and once inside I put the kettle on and prepare pork pie, coleslaw and pickled onions.
Quick and easy.
Outside the rain fell and the wind built. I was going nowhere else.
So I put the radio on to listen to the football and watch more train videos from America on YouTube. Other tubes are available.
Att he same time, Norwich were playing Wycombe in the league. Only the second time they had played eacho ther in the league at The Carra. And after scoring inside 3 minutes, it looked like a cruise for City. But a defensive mix up gifted Wycombe a leveller, and then came an hour of frustration, until into injury time when Super Mario stepped up to strike a free kick from inside the D. It went into the top corner. So, nine points from the three games this week, and up to 5th.
Sweet.
Dinner was fishcakes, curried rice and sweetcorn, and after that I sit down to watch the Man Utd v Chelski game on TV. Once upon a time this was a league decider. Not so now, two poor teams, scared of conceding eek out a 0-0 draw, and I could have spent the time, better, watching paint dry.
Outside the wind howled and threw rain at the house. The cats decided they were not going out.
Who blames them?
This will be a long hard winter, with little light. I hope I am wrong, but I suspect I am right. By the time BST returns at the end of March Britain will be a very different place, but it will be, at least, Spring.
The last day of summer time was destined to bring us storms, strong winds and driving rain, but not until later in the afternoon and overnight, which meant we could go out and visit places.
We are not great shoppers, so no need to go to Ashford, Westwood Cross or even Canterbury, but the odd attractive village perhaps, and maybe an attractive church or two? And a walk in the country, because, if nothing else, COVID has not closed them down.
Yet.And one of the best and closest reserves is Stodmarsh, on the southern banks of the Great Stour downstream fro Canterbury. But unlike places like Westbere on the other side of the river, Stodmarsh is on a road much less travelled, and so out of the way, you do not come here by accident.
Which is a shame as it is a rather nice place, and has a fine looking pub, as I was to see. Although I had been here twice before, not really walked round the village, other than the small church.
To get to Stodmarsh is easy enough, just go to Preston, take the road to Grove Ferry and left at the cross roads, and across the fields and into the shallow valley and you arrive. And so should have been simple, and was until we drove past the butcher and came to turn down the Grove Ferry road only to find road closed signs.
No problem, we could get past from the other side, but this did mean going down the road through Stourmarsh and Pluck's Gutter to Monkton, then back towards Canterbury through Sarre and down the Gover Ferry road.
Only, as the main road left Sarre, I saw a freight train, rare in Kent these days, and it was clearly a balast train for track replacement, meaning, correctly as it turned out, that the road closure would be at the level crossing at Grove Ferry, and so we would have to go round to Preston. Again.Which is how it turned out.
An hour late we pulled into the reserve car park, found that due to COVID those were closed. But, after putting on our walking boots we set off through the woods and out onto the marsh beyond, through the reedbeds, eyes peeled for any wildlife we might see. I was hoping to see Bearded Tits, aka Bearded Reedlings, as I had never seen them before, and at this time of year they collect gravel from paths to fill their gizzards to grind up older plant material. But saw none of those either.
But I did see a Kingfisher. I say "saw", I mean as we left the wood, to the right I saw a flash of blue as one took off, and did not return, though I did hear it calling as we shuffled along the muddy track, trying not to fall over.
There were a few flowers hanging on, a hogweed and a couple of dandelion hawkbits and a thistle too. We disturned an upset Grey Heron which leapt into the air then used its huge wings to fly away to a quieter part of the reserve.
Near to the river it got too muddy to go on, so we turned back for the car park, and into the teeth of the freshening breeze which was turn to severe gales by the end of the day. Over Canterbury sheets of rain could be seen, so time for home.
Back at the car, I drove to the centre of Stodmarsh and tried the church door. To no one's surprise, it was locked. It is a small church, but I wanted to rephotograph the unique support for the bellcote, but that will have to wait until next year.We drove back to the main road then through Wingham where I wanted to visit Wickhambreaux to photograph the town and church. I went to the church first and saw the porch door open, a gentleman was clearing the churchyard of dead plants, I asked if the church was open. It was unlocked, but he would prefer it if I did not go in, I could see the inner door ajar. I wanted to argue, but left it. I have been there before, so not essential, but it would have been nice to do one church.
Not today.As I walked back to the car the rain came, drizzle at first, driven to feel like hail by the wind. I put my cameras in the boot and climb in.
Let's go home.
So we do.
Only I got the idea to stop off on the Sandwich bypass for some dirty food from the greasy spoon. He was open and serving, but after parking and going to the hatch he told us he was maxed out with orders and could not serve us. A builder stood nearby and must have come with a large order for his friends.
So we got back in the car and drove home, and once inside I put the kettle on and prepare pork pie, coleslaw and pickled onions.
Quick and easy.
Outside the rain fell and the wind built. I was going nowhere else.
So I put the radio on to listen to the football and watch more train videos from America on YouTube. Other tubes are available.
Att he same time, Norwich were playing Wycombe in the league. Only the second time they had played eacho ther in the league at The Carra. And after scoring inside 3 minutes, it looked like a cruise for City. But a defensive mix up gifted Wycombe a leveller, and then came an hour of frustration, until into injury time when Super Mario stepped up to strike a free kick from inside the D. It went into the top corner. So, nine points from the three games this week, and up to 5th.
Sweet.
Dinner was fishcakes, curried rice and sweetcorn, and after that I sit down to watch the Man Utd v Chelski game on TV. Once upon a time this was a league decider. Not so now, two poor teams, scared of conceding eek out a 0-0 draw, and I could have spent the time, better, watching paint dry.
Outside the wind howled and threw rain at the house. The cats decided they were not going out.
Who blames them?
4728
A trip to Berlin.
Yes, that Berlin.
It is December 1993, I had been in Germany for 6 months, my first wife and I finally had our married quarter so she could join me in Germany, and we could start buying all the things we thought we needed to make us happy.
A week before Christmas I was called into the Chief's office. I need you to go Berlin he told me.
A jet had diverted and its emergency kit had life expired. Or one part of it: the safety matches.
Safety matches are the same matches that you Dad used to light his filter tips with, nothing special. And these bere in the emergency pack, and a box of matches (10p from your local corner shop) had to be replaced.
The jet had landed at RAF Gatow, where all the planes for the Berlin Airlift had landed, and which the RAF was going to hand over back to Germany in a few months. They had no resident aircraft, so no stores fo explosives, and as mad as it may sound, safety matches were classed as explosives. Not high explosives, but rules is rules.
So, I was told to cme into work the next day in civillian clothes, and a car would come and drive me to Berline, bring an overnight bag.
So it was.
Rules being rules meant that transporting hazardous cargo it meant that along with the driver and the person responsible for the goods (me) there had to be an armed RAF policeman.
The three of us, one armed with a loaded 9mm pistol, and a box of matches in a locked red tin were loaded into the former staff car of the Station Commander of RAF Gütersloh, a top of the range Austin Montego, that was looking tired a few years ofter being delivered. Unlike most cars, it had fitting on the bonnet for a staff flag, and the car came complete with a set of UK military plates, and German civillian plates.
As we were on the Queen's business, normal rules of the road didn't apply to us, we could go as fast as the driver wanted. And he wanted to go as fast as possible. We did the trip in under 4 hours I seem to remember. I don't know if you have driven in Germany, but you can go as fast as you like on the autobahns, but we could go faster than that. And did. In blizzards.
Towns and cities zipped by, we crossed over into the old East and the quality of the road changed. But the driver prossed on and we were pressed back into the seats.
At Berlin there is a motorway that rings the city, we should have turned west, to the old western part. But the driver turned east.
So there we were, in a UK military car, with an armed and uniformed policeman in the back, driving past miles and miles of barracks still filled with Russian soldiers as the fall of the Soviet Union had not been felt here yet. We could have been arrested, held in military prison, but we were not stopped.
We arrived at Gattow, handed over the red box and now unloaded pistol at the stores.
Its the last Suplier Squadron Christmas Party tonight, you are all invited.
Sweet.
There was also a huge Christmas market on in the centre of Berlin, to the driver swapped the plates on the car over. This was legal he told us. And we drive into the city centre, parked and wandered the Christmas market, drank gluhwein and gernally acted like tourists.
We drive back, went to the mess and had dinner of something very British, I suspect.
Then went to the station family's club and got royally drunk.
We had no idea how to find our accommodation at midnight, but the nice RAF Police were waiting with their VW van and took us back to our transit rooms and we slept like babies.
And in the morning, we did the return trip, nursing handovers, with the driver going even faster as he wanted to get back to Laarbruch where it was his squadron's Christmas party that night.
I was just glad to have survived both trips.
Yes, that Berlin.
It is December 1993, I had been in Germany for 6 months, my first wife and I finally had our married quarter so she could join me in Germany, and we could start buying all the things we thought we needed to make us happy.
A week before Christmas I was called into the Chief's office. I need you to go Berlin he told me.
A jet had diverted and its emergency kit had life expired. Or one part of it: the safety matches.
Safety matches are the same matches that you Dad used to light his filter tips with, nothing special. And these bere in the emergency pack, and a box of matches (10p from your local corner shop) had to be replaced.
The jet had landed at RAF Gatow, where all the planes for the Berlin Airlift had landed, and which the RAF was going to hand over back to Germany in a few months. They had no resident aircraft, so no stores fo explosives, and as mad as it may sound, safety matches were classed as explosives. Not high explosives, but rules is rules.
So, I was told to cme into work the next day in civillian clothes, and a car would come and drive me to Berline, bring an overnight bag.
So it was.
Rules being rules meant that transporting hazardous cargo it meant that along with the driver and the person responsible for the goods (me) there had to be an armed RAF policeman.
The three of us, one armed with a loaded 9mm pistol, and a box of matches in a locked red tin were loaded into the former staff car of the Station Commander of RAF Gütersloh, a top of the range Austin Montego, that was looking tired a few years ofter being delivered. Unlike most cars, it had fitting on the bonnet for a staff flag, and the car came complete with a set of UK military plates, and German civillian plates.
As we were on the Queen's business, normal rules of the road didn't apply to us, we could go as fast as the driver wanted. And he wanted to go as fast as possible. We did the trip in under 4 hours I seem to remember. I don't know if you have driven in Germany, but you can go as fast as you like on the autobahns, but we could go faster than that. And did. In blizzards.
Towns and cities zipped by, we crossed over into the old East and the quality of the road changed. But the driver prossed on and we were pressed back into the seats.
At Berlin there is a motorway that rings the city, we should have turned west, to the old western part. But the driver turned east.
So there we were, in a UK military car, with an armed and uniformed policeman in the back, driving past miles and miles of barracks still filled with Russian soldiers as the fall of the Soviet Union had not been felt here yet. We could have been arrested, held in military prison, but we were not stopped.
We arrived at Gattow, handed over the red box and now unloaded pistol at the stores.
Its the last Suplier Squadron Christmas Party tonight, you are all invited.
Sweet.
There was also a huge Christmas market on in the centre of Berlin, to the driver swapped the plates on the car over. This was legal he told us. And we drive into the city centre, parked and wandered the Christmas market, drank gluhwein and gernally acted like tourists.
We drive back, went to the mess and had dinner of something very British, I suspect.
Then went to the station family's club and got royally drunk.
We had no idea how to find our accommodation at midnight, but the nice RAF Police were waiting with their VW van and took us back to our transit rooms and we slept like babies.
And in the morning, we did the return trip, nursing handovers, with the driver going even faster as he wanted to get back to Laarbruch where it was his squadron's Christmas party that night.
I was just glad to have survived both trips.
Blame the EU
Both the Daily Express and your Super Soaraway Sun have run stories about the EU will stop UK cisitzens using the E grages at ports and airports.
I am not surprised, as stopping free movement involves citizens of both the EU and UK, that the EU wouldn't force this was beyond wishful thinking.
Brexit means Brexit, after all.
So, UK travellers will have to prepare for multi-hour waits, especially at hub airports like Amsterdam and Frankfurt.
I have seen the queues at Amsterdam for the e gates and so realised the consequences of having to use the normal gates for passport checks, maybe MPs and Brexiteers never travelled so didn't think it was an issue. I imagine it will be come next summer when folks go on their holibobs agan.
Meanwhile, a UK Government Department has been tweeting lies. And I use the word "lies" because it was a lie.
The NI Office tweeted that there would be no border checks between Britain and NI as the WA forbid this, when the WA actually mandated it, and the UK Government is currently spending millions in constructing infrastructure for that very purpose.
Meanwhile the Torygraph is suggesting Johnson is delaying whther to go for no deal until the US election result is known, so he will know which President he would have to negotiate with.
Nothing about what is good for the country in that thought process, of course.
I am not surprised, as stopping free movement involves citizens of both the EU and UK, that the EU wouldn't force this was beyond wishful thinking.
Brexit means Brexit, after all.
So, UK travellers will have to prepare for multi-hour waits, especially at hub airports like Amsterdam and Frankfurt.
I have seen the queues at Amsterdam for the e gates and so realised the consequences of having to use the normal gates for passport checks, maybe MPs and Brexiteers never travelled so didn't think it was an issue. I imagine it will be come next summer when folks go on their holibobs agan.
Meanwhile, a UK Government Department has been tweeting lies. And I use the word "lies" because it was a lie.
The NI Office tweeted that there would be no border checks between Britain and NI as the WA forbid this, when the WA actually mandated it, and the UK Government is currently spending millions in constructing infrastructure for that very purpose.
Meanwhile the Torygraph is suggesting Johnson is delaying whther to go for no deal until the US election result is known, so he will know which President he would have to negotiate with.
Nothing about what is good for the country in that thought process, of course.
Saturday 24 October 2020
Something to look forward to
On arrival at Auckland International Airport and after completion of customs formalities, collecting your
luggage and passing through security, turn left as you enter the main arrivals hall where you will be
met by our local representative at the pre-arranged transfers desk. The driver will be holding a sign
with your name detailed. From here you will be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel.
In: Friday 03 December 2021 Out: Monday 06 December 2021
This 1936 heritage-listed, beautifully detailed hotel embodies an art deco era of refined, exclusive elegance. Ideally located in the heart of Auckland, it's within easy walking distance of the Viaduct Harbour precinct, North Wharf and stunning Waitemata Harbour. On the doorstep you'll find luxury shopping, vibrant cafés, contemporary restaurants and lively bars. An exquisite, character hotel with a distinctly residential ambience, it offers a fashionable inner city haven, featuring beautifully appointed, stylish accommodation and the distinctive, personal service of a bygone era.
Saturday, 04 December 2021 Auckland
During your free time in Auckland you may like to consider some of the following activities: Explore the City of Sails from the water – there are a variety of options available, from sightseeing cruises to a hands-on experience sailing on a former America’s Cup yacht.
Take a day trip out to Rangitoto or Waiheke Islands. Rangitoto Island is an extinct volcano and iconic Auckland landmark. Walk over lava crops and through native bush to the summit for panoramic views of the city and out to the Hauraki Gulf. Alternatively, visit Waiheke Island with its beautiful beaches, vineyards, olive groves and laid back villages. Regular passenger ferries to each depart from central Auckland and guided tours are also available.
The Auckland Art Gallery has a wide ranging permanent collection of national and international art, both historical and contemporary and hosts a programme of touring exhibitions.
Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World, located underneath the Auckland waterfront, aims to display the Southern Ocean marine life from the perspective of a diver. Here you can travel along a 110m see through tunnel surrounding by ocean water and creatures of the deep.
Auckland War Memorial Museum introduces you to the people of the Pacific and New Zealand, the natural history of our country, and tells the stories of wars which have helped shaped the New Zealand national identity. There are also galleries devoted to New Zealand design and decorative arts and special exhibitions.
Auckland Zoo is home to over 1300 animals and is recognized as one of the most progressive zoos in the world. Set in 16 hectares of parkland, the zoo provides exciting visitor experiences aimed at inspiring people to take action to support the wildlife and environment.
Sunday, 05 December 2021 Auckland
Today is also at your leisure
Known as the 'City of Sails', Auckland city extends over a narrow isthmus between the Waitemata Harbour on the Pacific Ocean, and the Manukau Harbour on the Tasman Sea. Auckland has spectacular natural features, including 49 dormant volcanoes. This cosmopolitan city has a population of around 1.4 million and the city’s subtropical climate, lush vegetation and easy access to the coast and outdoor activities consistently earns it a place in the top five rankings in international lifestyle surveys. A melting pot of 190 different ethnicities, Auckland is the world’s biggest Polynesian city. This diversity is reflected in the lively arts and culture scene, a wide range of food and craft markets, vineyards, a hip cafe culture and outstanding restaurants. The dozens of islands of the Hauraki Gulf form a distinctive aspect of the Auckland landscape and provide a magnet for boaties, fishing enthusiasts and hikers.
Monday, 06 December 2021
Northern Explorer - Auckland to Wellington Rail Service
Operated by The Great Journeys of New Zealand
Includes
One item of check in baggage per person – max weight 32kgs. Additional items of baggage (max 2) can be purchased for NZ$20.00 per item.
7.15am: Check-in at the KiwiRail - The Great Journeys of New Zealand ticket counter located at Auckland Strand Station, Ngaoho Place, Auckland. Please have your booking reference ready for check-in.
7.45am: The Northern Explorer train departs Auckland.
The Northern Explorer is a journey through the heart of the North Island, travelling between Auckland, New Zealand's largest city and home of the Sky Tower, to Wellington which is New Zealand's arts and culture capital. Along the way you pass the Central North Island ski towns of National Park and Ohakune. You'll also see fantastic views of New Zealand farmland, the volcanic plateau, Mount Ruapehu, the world famous Raurimu Spiral, and stunning river gorges - all from panoramic windows.
6.25pm: Arrive in Wellington.
Duration: 10 hours and 25 minutes | Months: Year Round | Days: Mon, Thur, Sat Starts: 7.45am | Ends: 6.25pm Friday, 17 December 2021 Wellington to Blenheim
Today make your own way to the Ferry terminal
Ferry Service Wellington to Picton Ferry - Interislander (Premium) Plus Operated by Interislander
Includes:
Access to the Kaitaki Superior Club Lounge providing comfortable seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, Sky television, newspapers and magazines, complimentary food and beverages.
Check-in at the Interislander ferry terminal and board your vessel for the journey across Cook Strait. Depart Wellington and arrive into Picton harbour. The 92 kilometre voyage takes approximately three hours and is described as one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world.
Drive Picton to Blenheim
(28kms/17 miles - approx 30 minutes non-stop drive time)
Depart the picturesque seaside town of Picton and take the short drive to sunny Blenheim, crossing the Wairau Plains past vineyards and orchards. Blenheim is the heart of wine-growing Marlborough, so you will see plenty of award winning wineries on the way into town.
Accommodation at Marlborough Vintners Hotel
1 Double Vineyard View for 3 night(s)
In: Friday 17 December 2021 Out: Monday 20 December 2021
Located in the heart of the Marlborough wine country, is a property with a reputation for style and sophistication delivered with warm hospitality. This hotel in Blenheim offers 16 beautifully appointed suites with garden or vineyard views each with an extensive range of facilities. Of course, no visit to Marlborough would be complete without sampling the fine wine. Select from the hotels personal wine list featuring some of the best vintages from local well-known cellars and boutique wineries.
Saturday, 18 December 2021 Blenheim
Today is at your leisure
Blenheim is the Marlborough region’s main commercial centre and the hub of its famous wine industry. From the kumara plantations of the early Maori, to the sheep farms of European settlers and present day success with grape and olive growing industries, Blenheim has long been a source of quality, bountiful produce. The surrounding Wairau Plains are dominated by rows of grape vines and scattered with wineries, with the compact, rural town making a great base to explore and indulge in the attractions of the region.
Sunday, 19 December 2021 Blenheim
Today is at your leisure you may like to visit Marlborough Sounds Here you’ll find 1500 kms of coastline. Deep coves offering sheltered anchorage. Endless bays fringed by secluded beaches, ancient untouched forest and native bush. Cruise, kayak, water-ski or sail. Go fishing, diving and swimming in sparkling waters.
Otherwise there is hiking and mountain-biking along with breathtaking scenic walks amongst some of the country’s finest native flora and fauna. An unspoilt haven, rich in natural history and hospitality in which to unwind and experience the magic of Marlborough.
Monday, 20 December 2021 Blenheim to Nelson
Drive Blenheim to Nelson
(114 kms/71 miles - 1 hour 45 minutes non-stop drive time)
Depart the sunny town of Blenheim, cross over the Wairau River and make your way through the stunning Marlborough region. The lookout viewpoints along this drive are plentiful, so give yourself time to stop at each of them and take in the beautiful scenery. Take a small detour to the Cullen Point Lookout and breathe in the fresh air whilst overlooking Pelorus Sound. Continue on, following the Pelorus River (another filming location from The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug) where you will meet the Pelorus Bridge. In the Summer months, a great swim spot! And in the Winter, a nice spot to stretch your legs! As you leave the Marlborough region and enter the Nelson region, the road becomes hilly and sweeps up and over the Rai Saddle and Whangamoa Hill before running down to Tasman Bay and the City of Nelson.
Highlight of this drive: The 'Greenshell Mussel Capital of the World' - the historic town of Havelock, just a short detour off the main route to Nelson located at the meeting point of the Pelorus and Kaituna Rivers. If time permits, take the Greenshell Mussel Cruise for lunch, or take a small walk around the many walking tracks in the area.
Accommodation at Abel Tasman Lodge
1 Double One Bedroom Chalet for 4 night(s)
In: Monday 20 December 2021 Out: Friday 24 December 2021
Situated in the heart of Marahau and only 400 metres from the National Park entrance, this is the perfect accommodation for the famed Abel Tasman National Park. Self-contained accommodation is set amongst acres of native gardens including studios, one bedroom and two bedroom chalets. The National Park is suitable for all ages and the hosts of this property know it extremely well and can therefore assist guests in choosing activities suitable to their age, level of fitness and personal wishes
Tuesday, 21 December 2021 Nelson
Today is free to explore Nelson at your leisure and there are many options available. The vibrant city of Nelson is alive with boutique art galleries, cafes and restaurants. Various regional markets are held on a weekly basis. Don't miss the Nelson Farmer's Market if your stay includes a Wednesday morning or the Motueka Sunday Market for fresh local produce and crafts.
The wider region boasts craft breweries and wineries as well as a number of scenic and adventure activities. Visit some of them on a guided tour or hire a bike and explore them at your own leisure while cycling along Tasman's Great Taste Trail.
Nelson is the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, one of New Zealand's most popular visitor destinations. Take a day trip out to the park with its golden sandy beaches, turquoise waters and lush New Zealand bush. Explore the park on foot, by kayak or opt for a leisurely cruise.
Situated by the Waimea Estuary, just a short drive off the main coastal highway Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park, lies Mapua Wharf with a range of craft shops, galleries, restaurants, bars and cafes. Mapua Wharf is also where the ferry departs from, connecting Rabbit Island with Tasman's Great Taste Trail.
For two extraordinary collections representing innovation, design and wonder, visit the World of WearableArt Museum (WOW) showcasing some 50 wearable garments and the adjoining Classic Car Collection with some 140 veteran, vintage and classic cars near Nelson Airport.
Wednesday, 22 December 2021 Nelson
Another day at your leisure
Sunny Nelson lives up to its name with one of the highest sunshine hours in the country. The province has interesting topographical contrasts, from rugged mountains to extensive alluvial flats, from rough grazing land to intensive close backed farming, from desolation to virgin forest. Nelson is the commercial centre and seaport for a fertile, highly productive and extremely beautiful district noted for fruit and hops growing as well as general agricultural and vineyards. With three National Parks on its outer fringes Nelson is a great base for those who enjoy the outdoors. The region is also home to around 350 artists so enjoys an enviable reputation for a vibrant arts scene.
Thursday, 23 December 2021 Nelson
Today is at your leisure you may like to head over to the Golden Bay
The vibrant township of Takaka, which is adorned with colourful murals, oozes an undeniable passion for the arts; with jewellery stores, boutique stalls, art galleries and glassblowing studios occupying the main drag, and talented artisans selling handcrafted chocolates out of a hole in the wall in a nearby carpark.
Near Takaka,Te Waikoropupu Springs are holding the title as the largest freshwater springs in New Zealand, and the largest coldwater springs in the Southern Hemisphere, this wahi tapu (sacred place) is considered a taonga (treasure) by local Maori, and is held in high cultural and spiritual regard. Although you cannot swim in the springs, or even so much as glide your finger across the surface, it is easy to appreciate its allure when it contains some of the clearest water ever measured.
The historic little town of Collingwood is the access point for a range of spectacular natural attractions, including Wharariki Beach (a great spot for extended beach walks, a horse ride or to simply sit and watch the sunset) and the 35km long Farewell Spit. Farewell Spit Nature Reserve is a bird sanctuary and wetland of international importance, being more strictly protected than a national park. The first four km are publicly accessible. To experience the full length of the sandbank book a guided tour with Farewell Spit Eco Tours (pre-booking recommended).
Golden Bay is highly connected to two of the regions spectacular national parks, perhaps the reason for it's tagline 'Heart of the Parks', and for the stunning golden sands that line the eastern side of the bay. From Takaka you can easily access the Abel Tasman National Park's northern end for a walk to Wainui Falls or venture further to the coast at Totaranui at the Northern end of the famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track. Access to Kahurangi National Park and the Heaphy Track by foot is also a great option for those with more time at their hands.
Drive Nelson to Punakaiki
(265 kms/165 miles -3.5 hours non-stop drive time)
Depart Nelson and journey into the fertile farmlands of pine forested hills around Murchison. Pass through the mighty Buller Gorge which is the gateway to the West Coast and from there it is on to the incredible drive down the coast. The mighty rollers from the Tasman Sea crash and thunder endlessly onto the rocky shore. Arrive at Punakaiki and view the geographical oddities of the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, where countless years of wind and water have weathered the coastline into pancake-like formations.
Sunday, 26 December 2021 Punakaiki to Franz Josef
Drive Punakaiki to Franz Josef
(217 kms/135 miles - 3 hours non-stop drive time)
Depart Punakaiki and follow the Great Coast Road, one of the most scenic touring routes in the world, alongside the Paparoa National Park. to Greymouth. At times, the rainforest comes right down to the sea and the area is home to the world's smallest penguin. From Greymouth, continue south on State Highway 6 to arrive in Hokitika. From here, the road dips in and out of dense bush for many miles, crossing beautiful stretches of countryside scattered with farming settlements to Franz Josef, the first of the West Coast’s two well known Glacier settlements.
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's spectacular Glacier Country, is a architecturally styled Bed and Breakfast property. Set in a beautiful bush garden, the Lodge offers well-appointed accommodation with stunning views of the West Coast's rainforests, mountains of the Southern Alps and the Franz Josef Glacier. Rooms are superbly comfortable offering large open plan suites with stylish ensuite bathrooms
Monday, 27 December 2021 Franz Josef
Today is at your leisure
The best observed and recorded of all the country's many glaciers, Franz Josef lies 25 kilometres to the north of Fox and was named after the Austrian emperor by Julius Von Haast, the first European to explore the glaciers here. View the glacier from the lookout point at the end of the Franz Josef Road.
Tuesday, 28 December 2021 Franz Josef to Wanaka
Drive Franz Josef to Wanaka
(287 kms/178 miles - 4 hours non stop drive time)
Depart Franz Josef heading through a mountainous section of road before entering Fox Glacier. Cross the Cook River Bridge and travel through forests of red and white pine to Bruce Bay, an old goldmining settlement. Continue through attractive bush scenery until you pass tranquil Lakes Paringa and Moeraki, the haunt of the fabulous White Heron, to the township of Haast. From here, drive through the Haast Pass Highway, viewing en route Mount Brewster, towering 2423 metres and the Brewster Glacier. Descend 82 kilometres, past the Lake Hawea Dam, water storage for the Roxburgh Hydro Electric Station, to Wanaka.
Wednesday, 29 December 2021 Wanaka
Today is at your leisure to explore Wanaka and its surrounds. Due to its location at the southern tip of Lake Wanaka with the Southern Alps as a backdrop, Wanaka is a fantastic outdoor playground. One of the best ways to discover Wanaka and its surrounds is on the water. Explore the lake by kayak or stand-up paddle board. Or, if you want to take it a little further, choose between a guided kayak trip up the Clutha River, an entertaining eco tour to Mou Waho Island in Lake Wanaka, or a spectacular jetboat ride to Mount Aspiring National Park on the braided Matukituki River.
If you prefer to spend the day ashore, walking tracks and bike trails are plentiful with short, easy options as well as half day and full day hikes and rides easily accessible. Another, less physical way to see the region is by off-road excursion to one of the region’s iconic high country stations. For a great indoors activity and unusual experience, visit of Puzzling World on the outskirts of town. The Illusion Rooms, Puzzle Centre and Maze will leave you baffled. This makes for a fun family experience. Warbirds & Wheels, another indoor exhibition, houses a large collection of luxury American Classic cars, vintage vehicles and fighter aircrafts.
If you simply can't get enough of Wanaka's panoramic views, book in for a skydive or scenic helicopter flight.
In winter, Wanaka becomes a ski resort with two main world-class ski fields, Treble Cone and Cardrona, in easy reach. Single and multi day passes are available and gear and clothing can be hired if you decide to take to the slopes and give skiing or snowboarding a go.
Friday, 31 December 2021 Wanaka to Queenstown
Drive Wanaka to Queenstown (117 kms/72 miles 1.5 hours non-stop drive time) From Wanaka, travel to Cromwell and through the spectacular Kawarau Gorge to follow the river into Queenstown.
Saturday, 01 January 2022 Queenstown
Today is free to explore Queenstown at your leisure. Queenstown and its surrounds are a true outdoor playground with much to offer for adrenaline-seekers, the active, wine lovers, and families alike. Known as the adventure capital of the world, thrill-seekers have an abundance of options to choose from. Queenstown is ground zero for commercial bungy jumping anywhere in the world. Choose between Kawarau Bridge, where it all started, or head to the Nevis Bungy site for the most daring and highest bungy jump in the world (134m high!) – or go for a combination of the two and supplement it with a canyon swing or catapult experience. Experience the excitement of a high speed jet boat ride: skim across the water, whizz round corners and shoot through narrow rocky gorges!
A busy soft-adventure playground is located on top of Bob’s Peak, high above town. It can be reached by the iconic Skyline Gondola and offers activities like lugeing (part go-kart, part toboggan), zip lining (flying fox), dining with a view and stargazing.
There is no better way to appreciate Queenstown's location amid the Southern Alps than from a bird's eye perspective. Take a scenic helicopter flight, paraglide flight or take to the skies with a tandem skydive.
If you feel more comfortable on the ground, activities are plentiful, too. Cycling tours and mountain biking trails in Queenstown are a great way to explore and discover remote parts of this beautiful region! Or take to one of the many walking and hiking trails along the lakeshore or up the many hills and mountains.
For heritage-lovers, a cruise on Lake Wakatipu on board the iconic vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw is a must as is a visit of the historic town of Arrowtown, a gold-rush village.
A little further afield lies scenic Glenorchy that can be reached by a 45-minute drive along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The views are spectacular and Glenorchy itself offers a range of activities, including walks, scenic jetboating, horse-riding and film locations from Lord of the Rings and Narnia. These are best be visited by 4x4 tour.
Wine devotees should not miss a trip out to nearby Gibbston Valley, home to some of the world’s best Pinot Noir, to explore cellar doors and restaurants to find your favourite vintage. This can be done independently by car or bicycle or as part of a guided tour.
In winter, Queenstown transforms itself into a ski resort. Ski fields like The Remarkables, Coronet Peak and Cardrona offer options for experienced skiers and snowboarders and novices alike. Or, if you would like to try something new, why not head out for a snow shoeing experience?
Tuesday, 04 January 2022 Queenstown to Te Anau
Drive Queenstown to Te Anau
(170 kms/105 miles - 2.5 hours non-stop drive time)
Today, leave the picturesque resort town of Queenstown and make your way to the gateway of the Fiords, Te Anau. The first part of your journey will skirt Lake Wakatipu in the shadow of the rugged Remarkable Ranges until you arrive in Kingston, the home of a remarkable vintage steam train. From here, continue on through to Mossburn and into the tussock covered hills. Once the highest point is reached there are magnificent views of the mountains of Fiordland to the north, south and west. After a few miles the wide panorama of Lake Te Anau comes into view.
Wednesday, 05 January 2022 Te Anau
Today is free to explore Te Anau at your leisure and there are many options available. A true outdoor playground, Te Anau’s location on the shores of Lake Te Anau offers a stunning backdrop for local activities. Being the closest town to Milford Sound, Te Anau is regarded as the gateway to Fiordland. It is also the gateway to three of New Zealand’s nine Great Walks.
Take a day trip to Milford Sound, rated as one of New Zealand’s must-sees. The journey along Milford Road, a stunning alpine drive, takes approximately two hours by coach and is a highlight in itself with numerous scenic stops along the way. Various cruise operators take visitors on the approximately 16 kilometre/10 mile journey from the fiord’s head to the open sea.
Not less spectacular but more remote and visited by fewer travellers is Doubtful Sound, also known as the Sound of Silence. The spectacular journey to Doubtful Sound involves a short coach transfer to nearby Manapouri followed by a cruise across Lake Manapouri, a scenic drive over Wilmot Pass and down to the head of Doubtful Sound for a scenic cruise on the fiord.
If you are into hiking or walking, various sections of the Kepler Track, Routburn Track and Milford Track can easily be reached from Te Anau by road transfer, water taxi or jetboat. There are options to hike segments of these three Great Walks guided or unguided. Other activities include cycling along the Lake2Lake Cycle Trail along the Upper Waiau River that connects Lake Te Anau with Lake Manapouri. This is a great family activity given the easy trail grade.
Another great family activity is a guided visit of the nearby glowworm caves on the western shores of Lake Te Anau, accessible only by boat.
Not to be missed is a visit of the local Fiordland Cinema to watch Ata Whenua – Fiordland on Film and enjoy a drink in the adjacent bar. Inspired by the breath-taking aerial footage, why not take a scenic flight by helicopter, floatplane or fixed wing aircraft to see more of Fiordland from above?
Thursday, 06 January 2022 Te Anau to Invercargill
Drive Te Anau to Invercargill
(158 kms/99 miles - 2 hours non-stop drive time)
Today, depart beautiful Lake Te Anau and drive through farmlands and tussock country during the first section of this trip. The road to Invercargill runs through forested hills, valleys and river plain. You may like to stop in Mandeville if you'd like to fly in a Tiger Moth, or by the Mataura River if you want to catch a trout. Gore is where you will find the Hokonui Moonshine Museum, which showcases the regions illicit whisky-making past. Invercargill is Southland's principle centre and the country's southernmost city. It is known for its elegant old department stores and wise, easy-to-navigate streets.
Friday, 07 January 2022 Invercargill to Catlins
Today drive 2 hours to your next accommodation in the Catlins
Monday, 10 January 2022 Dunedin
Today is free to take in Dunedin’s wide range of attractions and experiences. Among the best known is Larnach Castle, a private mansion with an intriguing history and built at a beautiful, isolated site on Otago Peninsula. Whilst out on the Peninsula, a wildlife tour or visit to the albatross and penguin colonies is recommended and you may like to include a stop at Glenfalloch Gardens, one of New Zealand’s finest woodland parks. Back in the city, head to the Octagon with its many bars and cafes, or explore the boutique fashion stores for which the city is gaining a reputation. A short walk from the Octagon, The Speights Brewery, situated on the same site since 1876, offers behind the scenes tours giving a background to this famous New Zealand beer. Other heritage buildings worth a visit are Olveston House, an elegant Jacobean style home, and the distinctive and grandiose Dunedin Railway Station. The Taieri Gorge train departs here daily for a scenic journey inland through the spectacular Taieri Gorge, a route originally planned to give the city access to the gold mines and rich farmland of Central Otago.
Drive Dunedin to Christchurch
(359 km's/223 miles - 5 hours non-stop drive time)
From Dunedin travel through Palmerston, former gateway to the goldfields, and on to Oamaru. Many of the handsome buildings found in this city are constructed from Oamaru stone which has led to its nickname 'The White Stone City'. En route to Timaru, a very popular seaside town, pass the 45th Parallel - halfway between The Equator and the South Pole. Pass through Temuka, known for its earthernware pottery and soon afterward you will arrive in the town of Ashburton, the centre of a large sheep and wheat farming area.
Leaving Ashburton, head north and pass over the mighty Rakaia River, famous for its salmon fishing. Continue across the farmland of the Canterbury Plains and past the military township of Burnham to Christchurch, known as ‘The Garden City.’
Wednesday, 12 January 2022 Christchurch
Relax and enjoy a day at leisure in the Garden City.
With the rebuild of Christchurch following the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes, the urban city centre today is full of new secrets to discover. Prepare for new architecture, bustling restaurants, laneways, large, green public spaces and immense street art. To find out more on the street art, visit watchthisspace.org.nz.
The flat city scape makes it easy to get around on foot or by bicycle. Alternatively, the hop on hop off sightseeing buses or the city tour tram are great options for exploring Christchurch. Hagley Park is home to some of the city's attractions, including the large Botanical Gardens, the fascinating Canterbury Museum and the tranquil Avon River. Punting is an iconic activity and popular way to discover the park in a relaxed way. The inner city retail precinct with a wide range of boutiques and contemporary shops is found down Cashel, High and Colombo Streets.
Foodies will find an array of restaurants along Victoria Street and New Regent Street, trendy bars on The Terrace and casual eateries at Little High off High Street or at Riverside Market.
Great family attractions around the city also include the interactive Turanga Central Library, the International Antarctic Centre (near the airport), Willowbank Wildlife Reserve and the Air Force Museum. For adrenaline-seekers, a visit to the Christchurch Adventure Park offers great mountain biking and ziplining (with New Zealand's longest flying fox). Further afield, you can take a scenic drive out over Banks Peninsula to the quaint French settlement of Akaroa.
Thursday, 13 January 2022 Christchurch to Kaikoura
Drive Christchurch to Kaikoura
(182 kms/113 miles - approx 3 hours non-stop drive time)
Soon after departing Christchurch today, you will cross the Waimakariri River which meanders its way from its origin in the Southern Alps, through gorges, across the plains and exits at the Pacific Ocean. You will pass through many small towns and several look-out points before crossing the Hunderlee Hills to reach the coast where the majestic Kaikoura mountain range, snow-capped for much of the year, reaches down to the ocean. In the waters off the peninsula, a complex marine system provides an abundantly rich habitat for marine mammals and seabirds making it an ideal place for getting close to nature.
Due to on going road works following the November 2016 Earthquake you should allow plenty of time and be prepared for delays, which are likely over summer, or unexpected closures when you may have to change route.
Friday, 14 January 2022 Kaikoura
Kaikoura received its name from an early Maori explorer and translates as kai (to eat) and koura (crayfish). Today Kaikoura maintains its fishing heritage. The ocean’s continental shelf is very close to shore with an abundance of over two hundred species of marine life. The sights are truly unique - hundreds of fur seals sunbathing on the rocky shore, spectacular leaping dolphins and the most awesome of mammals, the sperm whale. There is evidence that the Maoris settled in Kaikoura nearly one thousand years ago with historic pa sites and the Maori Leap Cave able to be viewed.
Drive Kaikoura to Picton
(157 kms/97 miles - approx 3 hours non-stop drive time)
Due to on going road works following the November 2016 Earthquake you should allow plenty of time and be prepared for delays, which are likely over summer, or unexpected closures when you may have to change route.
The road is now open 24/7. This schedule can change at any time due weather, seismic or other conditions. Always check before you travel by calling free phone 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49). Leave this marine wonderland and travel north through farming countryside to Blenheim, a rural town that is surrounded by many of New Zealand’s leading wineries. Continue the short distance to Picton.
In: Friday 03 December 2021 Out: Monday 06 December 2021
This 1936 heritage-listed, beautifully detailed hotel embodies an art deco era of refined, exclusive elegance. Ideally located in the heart of Auckland, it's within easy walking distance of the Viaduct Harbour precinct, North Wharf and stunning Waitemata Harbour. On the doorstep you'll find luxury shopping, vibrant cafés, contemporary restaurants and lively bars. An exquisite, character hotel with a distinctly residential ambience, it offers a fashionable inner city haven, featuring beautifully appointed, stylish accommodation and the distinctive, personal service of a bygone era.
Saturday, 04 December 2021 Auckland
During your free time in Auckland you may like to consider some of the following activities: Explore the City of Sails from the water – there are a variety of options available, from sightseeing cruises to a hands-on experience sailing on a former America’s Cup yacht.
Take a day trip out to Rangitoto or Waiheke Islands. Rangitoto Island is an extinct volcano and iconic Auckland landmark. Walk over lava crops and through native bush to the summit for panoramic views of the city and out to the Hauraki Gulf. Alternatively, visit Waiheke Island with its beautiful beaches, vineyards, olive groves and laid back villages. Regular passenger ferries to each depart from central Auckland and guided tours are also available.
The Auckland Art Gallery has a wide ranging permanent collection of national and international art, both historical and contemporary and hosts a programme of touring exhibitions.
Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World, located underneath the Auckland waterfront, aims to display the Southern Ocean marine life from the perspective of a diver. Here you can travel along a 110m see through tunnel surrounding by ocean water and creatures of the deep.
Auckland War Memorial Museum introduces you to the people of the Pacific and New Zealand, the natural history of our country, and tells the stories of wars which have helped shaped the New Zealand national identity. There are also galleries devoted to New Zealand design and decorative arts and special exhibitions.
Auckland Zoo is home to over 1300 animals and is recognized as one of the most progressive zoos in the world. Set in 16 hectares of parkland, the zoo provides exciting visitor experiences aimed at inspiring people to take action to support the wildlife and environment.
Sunday, 05 December 2021 Auckland
Today is also at your leisure
Known as the 'City of Sails', Auckland city extends over a narrow isthmus between the Waitemata Harbour on the Pacific Ocean, and the Manukau Harbour on the Tasman Sea. Auckland has spectacular natural features, including 49 dormant volcanoes. This cosmopolitan city has a population of around 1.4 million and the city’s subtropical climate, lush vegetation and easy access to the coast and outdoor activities consistently earns it a place in the top five rankings in international lifestyle surveys. A melting pot of 190 different ethnicities, Auckland is the world’s biggest Polynesian city. This diversity is reflected in the lively arts and culture scene, a wide range of food and craft markets, vineyards, a hip cafe culture and outstanding restaurants. The dozens of islands of the Hauraki Gulf form a distinctive aspect of the Auckland landscape and provide a magnet for boaties, fishing enthusiasts and hikers.
Monday, 06 December 2021
Northern Explorer - Auckland to Wellington Rail Service
Operated by The Great Journeys of New Zealand
Includes
One item of check in baggage per person – max weight 32kgs. Additional items of baggage (max 2) can be purchased for NZ$20.00 per item.
7.15am: Check-in at the KiwiRail - The Great Journeys of New Zealand ticket counter located at Auckland Strand Station, Ngaoho Place, Auckland. Please have your booking reference ready for check-in.
7.45am: The Northern Explorer train departs Auckland.
The Northern Explorer is a journey through the heart of the North Island, travelling between Auckland, New Zealand's largest city and home of the Sky Tower, to Wellington which is New Zealand's arts and culture capital. Along the way you pass the Central North Island ski towns of National Park and Ohakune. You'll also see fantastic views of New Zealand farmland, the volcanic plateau, Mount Ruapehu, the world famous Raurimu Spiral, and stunning river gorges - all from panoramic windows.
6.25pm: Arrive in Wellington.
Duration: 10 hours and 25 minutes | Months: Year Round | Days: Mon, Thur, Sat Starts: 7.45am | Ends: 6.25pm Friday, 17 December 2021 Wellington to Blenheim
Today make your own way to the Ferry terminal
Ferry Service Wellington to Picton Ferry - Interislander (Premium) Plus Operated by Interislander
Includes:
Access to the Kaitaki Superior Club Lounge providing comfortable seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, Sky television, newspapers and magazines, complimentary food and beverages.
Check-in at the Interislander ferry terminal and board your vessel for the journey across Cook Strait. Depart Wellington and arrive into Picton harbour. The 92 kilometre voyage takes approximately three hours and is described as one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world.
Drive Picton to Blenheim
(28kms/17 miles - approx 30 minutes non-stop drive time)
Depart the picturesque seaside town of Picton and take the short drive to sunny Blenheim, crossing the Wairau Plains past vineyards and orchards. Blenheim is the heart of wine-growing Marlborough, so you will see plenty of award winning wineries on the way into town.
Accommodation at Marlborough Vintners Hotel
1 Double Vineyard View for 3 night(s)
In: Friday 17 December 2021 Out: Monday 20 December 2021
Located in the heart of the Marlborough wine country, is a property with a reputation for style and sophistication delivered with warm hospitality. This hotel in Blenheim offers 16 beautifully appointed suites with garden or vineyard views each with an extensive range of facilities. Of course, no visit to Marlborough would be complete without sampling the fine wine. Select from the hotels personal wine list featuring some of the best vintages from local well-known cellars and boutique wineries.
Saturday, 18 December 2021 Blenheim
Today is at your leisure
Blenheim is the Marlborough region’s main commercial centre and the hub of its famous wine industry. From the kumara plantations of the early Maori, to the sheep farms of European settlers and present day success with grape and olive growing industries, Blenheim has long been a source of quality, bountiful produce. The surrounding Wairau Plains are dominated by rows of grape vines and scattered with wineries, with the compact, rural town making a great base to explore and indulge in the attractions of the region.
Sunday, 19 December 2021 Blenheim
Today is at your leisure you may like to visit Marlborough Sounds Here you’ll find 1500 kms of coastline. Deep coves offering sheltered anchorage. Endless bays fringed by secluded beaches, ancient untouched forest and native bush. Cruise, kayak, water-ski or sail. Go fishing, diving and swimming in sparkling waters.
Otherwise there is hiking and mountain-biking along with breathtaking scenic walks amongst some of the country’s finest native flora and fauna. An unspoilt haven, rich in natural history and hospitality in which to unwind and experience the magic of Marlborough.
Monday, 20 December 2021 Blenheim to Nelson
Drive Blenheim to Nelson
(114 kms/71 miles - 1 hour 45 minutes non-stop drive time)
Depart the sunny town of Blenheim, cross over the Wairau River and make your way through the stunning Marlborough region. The lookout viewpoints along this drive are plentiful, so give yourself time to stop at each of them and take in the beautiful scenery. Take a small detour to the Cullen Point Lookout and breathe in the fresh air whilst overlooking Pelorus Sound. Continue on, following the Pelorus River (another filming location from The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug) where you will meet the Pelorus Bridge. In the Summer months, a great swim spot! And in the Winter, a nice spot to stretch your legs! As you leave the Marlborough region and enter the Nelson region, the road becomes hilly and sweeps up and over the Rai Saddle and Whangamoa Hill before running down to Tasman Bay and the City of Nelson.
Highlight of this drive: The 'Greenshell Mussel Capital of the World' - the historic town of Havelock, just a short detour off the main route to Nelson located at the meeting point of the Pelorus and Kaituna Rivers. If time permits, take the Greenshell Mussel Cruise for lunch, or take a small walk around the many walking tracks in the area.
Accommodation at Abel Tasman Lodge
1 Double One Bedroom Chalet for 4 night(s)
In: Monday 20 December 2021 Out: Friday 24 December 2021
Situated in the heart of Marahau and only 400 metres from the National Park entrance, this is the perfect accommodation for the famed Abel Tasman National Park. Self-contained accommodation is set amongst acres of native gardens including studios, one bedroom and two bedroom chalets. The National Park is suitable for all ages and the hosts of this property know it extremely well and can therefore assist guests in choosing activities suitable to their age, level of fitness and personal wishes
Tuesday, 21 December 2021 Nelson
Today is free to explore Nelson at your leisure and there are many options available. The vibrant city of Nelson is alive with boutique art galleries, cafes and restaurants. Various regional markets are held on a weekly basis. Don't miss the Nelson Farmer's Market if your stay includes a Wednesday morning or the Motueka Sunday Market for fresh local produce and crafts.
The wider region boasts craft breweries and wineries as well as a number of scenic and adventure activities. Visit some of them on a guided tour or hire a bike and explore them at your own leisure while cycling along Tasman's Great Taste Trail.
Nelson is the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, one of New Zealand's most popular visitor destinations. Take a day trip out to the park with its golden sandy beaches, turquoise waters and lush New Zealand bush. Explore the park on foot, by kayak or opt for a leisurely cruise.
Situated by the Waimea Estuary, just a short drive off the main coastal highway Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park, lies Mapua Wharf with a range of craft shops, galleries, restaurants, bars and cafes. Mapua Wharf is also where the ferry departs from, connecting Rabbit Island with Tasman's Great Taste Trail.
For two extraordinary collections representing innovation, design and wonder, visit the World of WearableArt Museum (WOW) showcasing some 50 wearable garments and the adjoining Classic Car Collection with some 140 veteran, vintage and classic cars near Nelson Airport.
Wednesday, 22 December 2021 Nelson
Another day at your leisure
Sunny Nelson lives up to its name with one of the highest sunshine hours in the country. The province has interesting topographical contrasts, from rugged mountains to extensive alluvial flats, from rough grazing land to intensive close backed farming, from desolation to virgin forest. Nelson is the commercial centre and seaport for a fertile, highly productive and extremely beautiful district noted for fruit and hops growing as well as general agricultural and vineyards. With three National Parks on its outer fringes Nelson is a great base for those who enjoy the outdoors. The region is also home to around 350 artists so enjoys an enviable reputation for a vibrant arts scene.
Thursday, 23 December 2021 Nelson
Today is at your leisure you may like to head over to the Golden Bay
The vibrant township of Takaka, which is adorned with colourful murals, oozes an undeniable passion for the arts; with jewellery stores, boutique stalls, art galleries and glassblowing studios occupying the main drag, and talented artisans selling handcrafted chocolates out of a hole in the wall in a nearby carpark.
Near Takaka,Te Waikoropupu Springs are holding the title as the largest freshwater springs in New Zealand, and the largest coldwater springs in the Southern Hemisphere, this wahi tapu (sacred place) is considered a taonga (treasure) by local Maori, and is held in high cultural and spiritual regard. Although you cannot swim in the springs, or even so much as glide your finger across the surface, it is easy to appreciate its allure when it contains some of the clearest water ever measured.
The historic little town of Collingwood is the access point for a range of spectacular natural attractions, including Wharariki Beach (a great spot for extended beach walks, a horse ride or to simply sit and watch the sunset) and the 35km long Farewell Spit. Farewell Spit Nature Reserve is a bird sanctuary and wetland of international importance, being more strictly protected than a national park. The first four km are publicly accessible. To experience the full length of the sandbank book a guided tour with Farewell Spit Eco Tours (pre-booking recommended).
Golden Bay is highly connected to two of the regions spectacular national parks, perhaps the reason for it's tagline 'Heart of the Parks', and for the stunning golden sands that line the eastern side of the bay. From Takaka you can easily access the Abel Tasman National Park's northern end for a walk to Wainui Falls or venture further to the coast at Totaranui at the Northern end of the famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track. Access to Kahurangi National Park and the Heaphy Track by foot is also a great option for those with more time at their hands.
Drive Nelson to Punakaiki
(265 kms/165 miles -3.5 hours non-stop drive time)
Depart Nelson and journey into the fertile farmlands of pine forested hills around Murchison. Pass through the mighty Buller Gorge which is the gateway to the West Coast and from there it is on to the incredible drive down the coast. The mighty rollers from the Tasman Sea crash and thunder endlessly onto the rocky shore. Arrive at Punakaiki and view the geographical oddities of the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, where countless years of wind and water have weathered the coastline into pancake-like formations.
Sunday, 26 December 2021 Punakaiki to Franz Josef
Drive Punakaiki to Franz Josef
(217 kms/135 miles - 3 hours non-stop drive time)
Depart Punakaiki and follow the Great Coast Road, one of the most scenic touring routes in the world, alongside the Paparoa National Park. to Greymouth. At times, the rainforest comes right down to the sea and the area is home to the world's smallest penguin. From Greymouth, continue south on State Highway 6 to arrive in Hokitika. From here, the road dips in and out of dense bush for many miles, crossing beautiful stretches of countryside scattered with farming settlements to Franz Josef, the first of the West Coast’s two well known Glacier settlements.
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's spectacular Glacier Country, is a architecturally styled Bed and Breakfast property. Set in a beautiful bush garden, the Lodge offers well-appointed accommodation with stunning views of the West Coast's rainforests, mountains of the Southern Alps and the Franz Josef Glacier. Rooms are superbly comfortable offering large open plan suites with stylish ensuite bathrooms
Monday, 27 December 2021 Franz Josef
Today is at your leisure
The best observed and recorded of all the country's many glaciers, Franz Josef lies 25 kilometres to the north of Fox and was named after the Austrian emperor by Julius Von Haast, the first European to explore the glaciers here. View the glacier from the lookout point at the end of the Franz Josef Road.
Tuesday, 28 December 2021 Franz Josef to Wanaka
Drive Franz Josef to Wanaka
(287 kms/178 miles - 4 hours non stop drive time)
Depart Franz Josef heading through a mountainous section of road before entering Fox Glacier. Cross the Cook River Bridge and travel through forests of red and white pine to Bruce Bay, an old goldmining settlement. Continue through attractive bush scenery until you pass tranquil Lakes Paringa and Moeraki, the haunt of the fabulous White Heron, to the township of Haast. From here, drive through the Haast Pass Highway, viewing en route Mount Brewster, towering 2423 metres and the Brewster Glacier. Descend 82 kilometres, past the Lake Hawea Dam, water storage for the Roxburgh Hydro Electric Station, to Wanaka.
Wednesday, 29 December 2021 Wanaka
Today is at your leisure to explore Wanaka and its surrounds. Due to its location at the southern tip of Lake Wanaka with the Southern Alps as a backdrop, Wanaka is a fantastic outdoor playground. One of the best ways to discover Wanaka and its surrounds is on the water. Explore the lake by kayak or stand-up paddle board. Or, if you want to take it a little further, choose between a guided kayak trip up the Clutha River, an entertaining eco tour to Mou Waho Island in Lake Wanaka, or a spectacular jetboat ride to Mount Aspiring National Park on the braided Matukituki River.
If you prefer to spend the day ashore, walking tracks and bike trails are plentiful with short, easy options as well as half day and full day hikes and rides easily accessible. Another, less physical way to see the region is by off-road excursion to one of the region’s iconic high country stations. For a great indoors activity and unusual experience, visit of Puzzling World on the outskirts of town. The Illusion Rooms, Puzzle Centre and Maze will leave you baffled. This makes for a fun family experience. Warbirds & Wheels, another indoor exhibition, houses a large collection of luxury American Classic cars, vintage vehicles and fighter aircrafts.
If you simply can't get enough of Wanaka's panoramic views, book in for a skydive or scenic helicopter flight.
In winter, Wanaka becomes a ski resort with two main world-class ski fields, Treble Cone and Cardrona, in easy reach. Single and multi day passes are available and gear and clothing can be hired if you decide to take to the slopes and give skiing or snowboarding a go.
Friday, 31 December 2021 Wanaka to Queenstown
Drive Wanaka to Queenstown (117 kms/72 miles 1.5 hours non-stop drive time) From Wanaka, travel to Cromwell and through the spectacular Kawarau Gorge to follow the river into Queenstown.
Saturday, 01 January 2022 Queenstown
Today is free to explore Queenstown at your leisure. Queenstown and its surrounds are a true outdoor playground with much to offer for adrenaline-seekers, the active, wine lovers, and families alike. Known as the adventure capital of the world, thrill-seekers have an abundance of options to choose from. Queenstown is ground zero for commercial bungy jumping anywhere in the world. Choose between Kawarau Bridge, where it all started, or head to the Nevis Bungy site for the most daring and highest bungy jump in the world (134m high!) – or go for a combination of the two and supplement it with a canyon swing or catapult experience. Experience the excitement of a high speed jet boat ride: skim across the water, whizz round corners and shoot through narrow rocky gorges!
A busy soft-adventure playground is located on top of Bob’s Peak, high above town. It can be reached by the iconic Skyline Gondola and offers activities like lugeing (part go-kart, part toboggan), zip lining (flying fox), dining with a view and stargazing.
There is no better way to appreciate Queenstown's location amid the Southern Alps than from a bird's eye perspective. Take a scenic helicopter flight, paraglide flight or take to the skies with a tandem skydive.
If you feel more comfortable on the ground, activities are plentiful, too. Cycling tours and mountain biking trails in Queenstown are a great way to explore and discover remote parts of this beautiful region! Or take to one of the many walking and hiking trails along the lakeshore or up the many hills and mountains.
For heritage-lovers, a cruise on Lake Wakatipu on board the iconic vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw is a must as is a visit of the historic town of Arrowtown, a gold-rush village.
A little further afield lies scenic Glenorchy that can be reached by a 45-minute drive along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The views are spectacular and Glenorchy itself offers a range of activities, including walks, scenic jetboating, horse-riding and film locations from Lord of the Rings and Narnia. These are best be visited by 4x4 tour.
Wine devotees should not miss a trip out to nearby Gibbston Valley, home to some of the world’s best Pinot Noir, to explore cellar doors and restaurants to find your favourite vintage. This can be done independently by car or bicycle or as part of a guided tour.
In winter, Queenstown transforms itself into a ski resort. Ski fields like The Remarkables, Coronet Peak and Cardrona offer options for experienced skiers and snowboarders and novices alike. Or, if you would like to try something new, why not head out for a snow shoeing experience?
Tuesday, 04 January 2022 Queenstown to Te Anau
Drive Queenstown to Te Anau
(170 kms/105 miles - 2.5 hours non-stop drive time)
Today, leave the picturesque resort town of Queenstown and make your way to the gateway of the Fiords, Te Anau. The first part of your journey will skirt Lake Wakatipu in the shadow of the rugged Remarkable Ranges until you arrive in Kingston, the home of a remarkable vintage steam train. From here, continue on through to Mossburn and into the tussock covered hills. Once the highest point is reached there are magnificent views of the mountains of Fiordland to the north, south and west. After a few miles the wide panorama of Lake Te Anau comes into view.
Wednesday, 05 January 2022 Te Anau
Today is free to explore Te Anau at your leisure and there are many options available. A true outdoor playground, Te Anau’s location on the shores of Lake Te Anau offers a stunning backdrop for local activities. Being the closest town to Milford Sound, Te Anau is regarded as the gateway to Fiordland. It is also the gateway to three of New Zealand’s nine Great Walks.
Take a day trip to Milford Sound, rated as one of New Zealand’s must-sees. The journey along Milford Road, a stunning alpine drive, takes approximately two hours by coach and is a highlight in itself with numerous scenic stops along the way. Various cruise operators take visitors on the approximately 16 kilometre/10 mile journey from the fiord’s head to the open sea.
Not less spectacular but more remote and visited by fewer travellers is Doubtful Sound, also known as the Sound of Silence. The spectacular journey to Doubtful Sound involves a short coach transfer to nearby Manapouri followed by a cruise across Lake Manapouri, a scenic drive over Wilmot Pass and down to the head of Doubtful Sound for a scenic cruise on the fiord.
If you are into hiking or walking, various sections of the Kepler Track, Routburn Track and Milford Track can easily be reached from Te Anau by road transfer, water taxi or jetboat. There are options to hike segments of these three Great Walks guided or unguided. Other activities include cycling along the Lake2Lake Cycle Trail along the Upper Waiau River that connects Lake Te Anau with Lake Manapouri. This is a great family activity given the easy trail grade.
Another great family activity is a guided visit of the nearby glowworm caves on the western shores of Lake Te Anau, accessible only by boat.
Not to be missed is a visit of the local Fiordland Cinema to watch Ata Whenua – Fiordland on Film and enjoy a drink in the adjacent bar. Inspired by the breath-taking aerial footage, why not take a scenic flight by helicopter, floatplane or fixed wing aircraft to see more of Fiordland from above?
Thursday, 06 January 2022 Te Anau to Invercargill
Drive Te Anau to Invercargill
(158 kms/99 miles - 2 hours non-stop drive time)
Today, depart beautiful Lake Te Anau and drive through farmlands and tussock country during the first section of this trip. The road to Invercargill runs through forested hills, valleys and river plain. You may like to stop in Mandeville if you'd like to fly in a Tiger Moth, or by the Mataura River if you want to catch a trout. Gore is where you will find the Hokonui Moonshine Museum, which showcases the regions illicit whisky-making past. Invercargill is Southland's principle centre and the country's southernmost city. It is known for its elegant old department stores and wise, easy-to-navigate streets.
Friday, 07 January 2022 Invercargill to Catlins
Today drive 2 hours to your next accommodation in the Catlins
Monday, 10 January 2022 Dunedin
Today is free to take in Dunedin’s wide range of attractions and experiences. Among the best known is Larnach Castle, a private mansion with an intriguing history and built at a beautiful, isolated site on Otago Peninsula. Whilst out on the Peninsula, a wildlife tour or visit to the albatross and penguin colonies is recommended and you may like to include a stop at Glenfalloch Gardens, one of New Zealand’s finest woodland parks. Back in the city, head to the Octagon with its many bars and cafes, or explore the boutique fashion stores for which the city is gaining a reputation. A short walk from the Octagon, The Speights Brewery, situated on the same site since 1876, offers behind the scenes tours giving a background to this famous New Zealand beer. Other heritage buildings worth a visit are Olveston House, an elegant Jacobean style home, and the distinctive and grandiose Dunedin Railway Station. The Taieri Gorge train departs here daily for a scenic journey inland through the spectacular Taieri Gorge, a route originally planned to give the city access to the gold mines and rich farmland of Central Otago.
Drive Dunedin to Christchurch
(359 km's/223 miles - 5 hours non-stop drive time)
From Dunedin travel through Palmerston, former gateway to the goldfields, and on to Oamaru. Many of the handsome buildings found in this city are constructed from Oamaru stone which has led to its nickname 'The White Stone City'. En route to Timaru, a very popular seaside town, pass the 45th Parallel - halfway between The Equator and the South Pole. Pass through Temuka, known for its earthernware pottery and soon afterward you will arrive in the town of Ashburton, the centre of a large sheep and wheat farming area.
Leaving Ashburton, head north and pass over the mighty Rakaia River, famous for its salmon fishing. Continue across the farmland of the Canterbury Plains and past the military township of Burnham to Christchurch, known as ‘The Garden City.’
Wednesday, 12 January 2022 Christchurch
Relax and enjoy a day at leisure in the Garden City.
With the rebuild of Christchurch following the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes, the urban city centre today is full of new secrets to discover. Prepare for new architecture, bustling restaurants, laneways, large, green public spaces and immense street art. To find out more on the street art, visit watchthisspace.org.nz.
The flat city scape makes it easy to get around on foot or by bicycle. Alternatively, the hop on hop off sightseeing buses or the city tour tram are great options for exploring Christchurch. Hagley Park is home to some of the city's attractions, including the large Botanical Gardens, the fascinating Canterbury Museum and the tranquil Avon River. Punting is an iconic activity and popular way to discover the park in a relaxed way. The inner city retail precinct with a wide range of boutiques and contemporary shops is found down Cashel, High and Colombo Streets.
Foodies will find an array of restaurants along Victoria Street and New Regent Street, trendy bars on The Terrace and casual eateries at Little High off High Street or at Riverside Market.
Great family attractions around the city also include the interactive Turanga Central Library, the International Antarctic Centre (near the airport), Willowbank Wildlife Reserve and the Air Force Museum. For adrenaline-seekers, a visit to the Christchurch Adventure Park offers great mountain biking and ziplining (with New Zealand's longest flying fox). Further afield, you can take a scenic drive out over Banks Peninsula to the quaint French settlement of Akaroa.
Thursday, 13 January 2022 Christchurch to Kaikoura
Drive Christchurch to Kaikoura
(182 kms/113 miles - approx 3 hours non-stop drive time)
Soon after departing Christchurch today, you will cross the Waimakariri River which meanders its way from its origin in the Southern Alps, through gorges, across the plains and exits at the Pacific Ocean. You will pass through many small towns and several look-out points before crossing the Hunderlee Hills to reach the coast where the majestic Kaikoura mountain range, snow-capped for much of the year, reaches down to the ocean. In the waters off the peninsula, a complex marine system provides an abundantly rich habitat for marine mammals and seabirds making it an ideal place for getting close to nature.
Due to on going road works following the November 2016 Earthquake you should allow plenty of time and be prepared for delays, which are likely over summer, or unexpected closures when you may have to change route.
Friday, 14 January 2022 Kaikoura
Kaikoura received its name from an early Maori explorer and translates as kai (to eat) and koura (crayfish). Today Kaikoura maintains its fishing heritage. The ocean’s continental shelf is very close to shore with an abundance of over two hundred species of marine life. The sights are truly unique - hundreds of fur seals sunbathing on the rocky shore, spectacular leaping dolphins and the most awesome of mammals, the sperm whale. There is evidence that the Maoris settled in Kaikoura nearly one thousand years ago with historic pa sites and the Maori Leap Cave able to be viewed.
Drive Kaikoura to Picton
(157 kms/97 miles - approx 3 hours non-stop drive time)
Due to on going road works following the November 2016 Earthquake you should allow plenty of time and be prepared for delays, which are likely over summer, or unexpected closures when you may have to change route.
The road is now open 24/7. This schedule can change at any time due weather, seismic or other conditions. Always check before you travel by calling free phone 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49). Leave this marine wonderland and travel north through farming countryside to Blenheim, a rural town that is surrounded by many of New Zealand’s leading wineries. Continue the short distance to Picton.
Friday 23rd October 2020
Friday at last.
And being Frday, Jools has an early yoga class, meaning she sets the alarm for five. I do hear it go off, but do fall back asleep for a while.
I wake up to the smell of coffee brewing, which is all the encouragement I need to leap out of bed. The coffee was waiting downstairs, now, with Jools out of the house would have the get up and go to get up and do a 4th session of the week on the cross trainer?
I would, as it happens.
I go up, plug the radio in, tune it into 6 records, and pump lard. Not for long, but long enough. For now.
Next week there is talk of 15 minutes and beyond.
We shall see.
I have breakfast and second coffee, as Jools was going from yoga straight to Tesco so would not be back until nearly nine, and I had meetings. Always meetings.
I should have gone out for a walk, it was the last bright day for a week, but work mean't I did not get free until well into the afternoon and by then clouds had rolled in and it looked too bracing to go out.
I did snap the cats, and the garden from the bathroom window, showing how fine it is looking now all work has been done before winter sets in.
We have nachos again for dinner, seeing that over half a bowl of salsa needed to be used up, and good news was the garlic in it has festered and was now very stinky, perfect for a night of cards at Jen's then.
Which is how we spent the evening, playing cards. Mainly waiting for Sylv to sort her hand out, but it was all good natured.
This week sees Betty being cremated, family are coming down from Wales for the service, and I will have the day off work, of course.
Details have been sorted out, with more to do, but life goes on. Jen is to go to stay with Sylv for a while once the fineral and other stuff has been seen to. She does't know what she will do in the long term, but we will always be there for her, of course.
Jen wins both hands of Meld, winning 80 pence in the process, all for three hours work.
Still it was fun.
Jools drives us back home, and I watch the end of the Forest v Derby, er, local derby.
And being Frday, Jools has an early yoga class, meaning she sets the alarm for five. I do hear it go off, but do fall back asleep for a while.
I wake up to the smell of coffee brewing, which is all the encouragement I need to leap out of bed. The coffee was waiting downstairs, now, with Jools out of the house would have the get up and go to get up and do a 4th session of the week on the cross trainer?
I would, as it happens.I go up, plug the radio in, tune it into 6 records, and pump lard. Not for long, but long enough. For now.
Next week there is talk of 15 minutes and beyond.
We shall see.
I have breakfast and second coffee, as Jools was going from yoga straight to Tesco so would not be back until nearly nine, and I had meetings. Always meetings.
I should have gone out for a walk, it was the last bright day for a week, but work mean't I did not get free until well into the afternoon and by then clouds had rolled in and it looked too bracing to go out.
I did snap the cats, and the garden from the bathroom window, showing how fine it is looking now all work has been done before winter sets in.We have nachos again for dinner, seeing that over half a bowl of salsa needed to be used up, and good news was the garlic in it has festered and was now very stinky, perfect for a night of cards at Jen's then.
Which is how we spent the evening, playing cards. Mainly waiting for Sylv to sort her hand out, but it was all good natured.This week sees Betty being cremated, family are coming down from Wales for the service, and I will have the day off work, of course.
Details have been sorted out, with more to do, but life goes on. Jen is to go to stay with Sylv for a while once the fineral and other stuff has been seen to. She does't know what she will do in the long term, but we will always be there for her, of course.
Jen wins both hands of Meld, winning 80 pence in the process, all for three hours work.
Still it was fun.
Jools drives us back home, and I watch the end of the Forest v Derby, er, local derby.
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