FrOm KL To N3W z3@L@Nd..

2007-05-02T00:43:00.000+12:00

This is officially my last post in this blog.I wouldn't want to shut it down,too many memories in here =).But alas,all good things comes to and end.
It's been more than a month since I returned,and as I predicted,lots of things has changed.First things first, from the time I left Auckland,everything has been a disaster.My overnight stop in Bangkok is probably the worst that's ever happened to me,and I'm not too keen to write about it here.My family was supposed to wait for me in the airport,but for some reasons they wasn't..at least not at the time I asked them to.I couldn't call out coz my phone died on me,and thank God I had some Malaysian coins to make a call to my bro,only to find out my mom's already in the airport and waiting in the DOMESTIC ARRIVAL!
OK,I asked her to cook my favourite curry and a spicy sambal,which she didn't.Fine.My dog got lost a few days before I returned home,and she didn't even tell me about it when I called and asked about the dog.Fine.To top it all,my PC crashed,and she blamed it on lighting and thunderstorm,but further examination revealed my motherboard was burnt,and I know it wasn't because of lighting or thunderstorms because all my wires are perfectly insulated,and plus I have used my PC all the time during bad weather,and it never crashed.Fine.
My phone line's been barred,and my internet connection suspended.I spent my first few days negotiating with Maxis and TMNet.The best Maxis could do was investigate my case,thus I had to put my mobile number on hold.Damn.Relatives who saw me commented on how much weight I lost.(OK that's not too bad LOL).But the worst part..the something I actually came back for,the something I actually looked forward to,decided to ditch me and go MIA.
No revealations on that,bt sufficient to say that if I knew all this would happen,I would have refused to board the aircraft even if they threaten to throw me out of the country!
I miss the times where I actually lived day as it comes.No joke.I can sleep all I want,plan my vacations,decide who I associate with,decide if I wanna call home,decide what I eat,decide what to buy,decide where to go,decide what to see..
The trip will have a lasting impact on me,because I feel myself much stronger and much matured now than how I used to be.To make decisions in a split second.To weigh pros and cons.To budget.To do groceries.To plan vacations.Banking.Bills.It's a whole new thing because things in New Zealand is done differently than here in Malaysia.
I am missin New Zealand,even on my last few days I was feelin very down because going home didn't really seem like a good plan.And how right I was.
I'm so happy to meet my friends when I returned,but I long to live life as it comes again.I have been unable to do that since I returned.I constantly find myself being answerable to many people,and constantly find my feelings conveniently at disposal to people around me.There were days after I returned,that I would have given anything not to care about anyone.
The only person I actually cared about in NZ was Rean,and I was looking to do the same here.Sadly,looks like God have other plans for me.Or maybe I over expected?How I actually wished God would come and answer a question or two.
Well,NZ 'll definitely be in memory,along with Rean,along with the cold winds that blows at my face,along with the beautiful night filled with stars in the Southern Hemisphere sky,along with Skytower,along with all the wonderful people I met,along with the happy times of living life to its fullest..
Thanks for all the support,from each and everyone of you,I am looking forward to seeing you all again..and hope that things will eventually get better (quoted from Colleen,whom I met while working in the vineyards in the South Island ).
Miss you,NZ.

2007-03-23T03:31:00.000+12:00

Guys,I'm sorry I can't update anything,Rean treated me to dinner and when I came back there's another party organised..and I'm pretty drunk right now =)..Will have to get up early tomorrow to finish packing and go to Rean's house.I have uploaded my pictures of Coromandel,but I can't align the link well (Or am I doing it wrong?LOL).The link's still working,so you guys can have a look at the pictures.It's gonna take me 2 days to get home,another God-knows-how-many days to get settled so,I will get back to this blog for one or two last posts before I officially shut it down.
This will be my last official post from New Zealand,God I'm so looking forward to sleep in the plane really..(do I really need to transit in Bangkok?!=( )..Sorry it's a short one,I was planning to write a long entry,but things don't always go our way.
Cheers,God Bless and will update soon.

2007-03-22T01:38:00.000+12:00

I was goin to update this blog everyday starting from Sunday right through until Friday,but I was away on my final leg of travel to the most beautiful place in New Zealand I have been so far-Coromandel Peninsula.Thus,I missed out on Monday and Tuesday =).
But well,I still do remember what happened on my first Monday in New Zealand.I arrived at 0930,carried my passport and my working holiday visa and was one of the first to go to the Immigrations and Customs.Yes,they stopped me,took down all my details,photocopied my flight tickets,passport,asked,no,forced me to provide some sort of phone numbers of ANYONE in New Zealand(I had to give Rean's number).They let me go after about 30 minutes,then came the declaring part.In the plane,we were given a declaration form to fill in and declare all that we bring into New Zealand.I declared all that I had,including the Maggi Mees and coffees.After all that I pushed my bag trolley out and into the arrivals area.
People were waiting with flowers,banners and signboards for their loved ones.Tour guides were busy checking tour groups and giving out souvenirs.I remember watching with a sigh,and remembering that I don't have anyone to receive me,I made my way out of the gate,and smelled in my first New Zealand air.
The day was PERFECT.The skies were blue,the sun was shining so brightly and I almost cried thinking I am really here!Really,really here in New Zealand.No time for being emotional,I boarded the Airbus to Auckland City,lugging my suitcase and found a seat.Surrounded by all mat and minah sallehs,I was the only dark skinned person in the whole bus.I was dropped off at YHA Auckland City,and was immediately given a room as I made reservations before I left Malaysia.
YHA Auckland City was clean,nice and quiet.I was sharing a room with 3 others,and after bringing in my bags,I settled in my bed,and tried to sleep.
Sleep!How can I even sleep!It was a gorgeous day outside,and it was chilly (17 degrees) so I decided to explore.
I went out and walked straight down and arrived in Queen Street,Auckland's main street and CBD.I walked up to Karangahape Road (or K'Road) and went to Bank of New Zealand to open my bank account.
After that,I popped into Vodafone and got my new SIM card and SMS-ed Anish my new number.Then I went to the Internet Cafe to email the whole world and tell them I've made it safely to New Zealand =P.
That night I walked the length of Queen Street until the Ferry Building,took some pictures and on the way back I was freezing cold.I looked around and everyone was wearing jumpers and sweaters..except me!I guess after taking a hot shower I thought I'd stay warm the whole day =).I remember tossing and turning coz I couldn't sleep,coz it was so cold.Sutha called me to ask if I am safe,Jackie SMSed me a good night message,and Thevika asked me to wear socks to sleep,which helped.
The next day,I went on a city tour courtersy of Stray,the adventure backpacker network and went to visited Auckland's attractions-Mt Eden,Mission Bay,Ponsonby,Skytower..to name a few.We had the New Zealand famous Hokey Pokey ice cream in Mission Bay.Rean called and asked me to meet her in front of Aotea Square for dinner,and I met her for the first time.
Sweet,nice and friendly,not to mention beautiful =p,Rean took me to an Asian food shop,where we had some chicken dish.Then we proceeded to have coffee in McDonald's McCafe.She went back around 10.30pm,and I went back to YHA.
Wednesday-I booked a ticket to Te Puke,where I was offered a job.I remember dragging my suitcase (which I would later ditch for a superrrbbbly expensive and sophisticated backpack =p) to Skycity Intercity terminal to board the bus to te Puke.
Beautiful views along the way,there were sheeps everywhere!Cute little fellows.I arrived in Te Puke late evening,and I had someone to pick me from the bus stop.Settled into a crowded,small room filled with 5 others,I remember not having dinner coz I was too lazy to cook,and the kitchen was too crowded anyway,so I just took off my shoes,slumped on bed,and slept.
***to be continued***=)

2007-03-19T01:36:00.000+12:00

It's my last Sunday in New Zealand.I came back after an assignment from Waiheke Island,about 30 minutes ferry ride from downtown Auckland,at 1.30am.I worked for 14 hours,my arms are sore now but it was all worth it.
Reason?
It was a beautiful wedding,and I GOT TO SEE THE PRIME MINISTER OF NEW ZEALAND,UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL.
Yes,the PM,Helen Clark,was one of the guests.I half expected to see 20 police cars,a batallion of army and another 15 or 20 escorts to come with her like how I was used to seeing in Malaysia.Instead,she flew in from the Governor's mansion in Auckland (she's actually based in Wellington),walked in with other guests and mingled freely.Oh well..I will keep my political views to myself here..LOL.
The wedding had a spectacular fireworks finish.By the time I got home and had showers I was ready to crawl on bed and die.So as expected,I slept the morning away,thus I missed the morning of my last Sunday in New Zealand.
I remember the Sunday I left Malaysia.Mum was crying her heart out.My aunt who drove me to the airport made me make copies of my passport,insurance policy,flight tickets..like I was never gonna come back.My wonderful group of friends sent me off at KLIA.I remember feeling oddly alone,I wished someone was going with me but now I am so glad I made this trip alone.My first journey overseas,I was really excited about the journey than how to spend 6 months in NZ.
Met Saoud from Oman in Bangkok airport,thus killed the 3 hours transit time.In the huge Airbus bound for Auckland,I saw a beautiful sunset from the sky,ate airline meals,watched in-flight movies,and by the time I was out from the plane I sweared I will not fly again =)Staying in a cabin for 16 hours and stumbling into civilization was too much =p.
I remember the touch keys of my in-flight movie screen wasn't working.I tried watching the guy next to me,the Korean guy expertly punching the buttons in his screen and watching the Da Vinci Code.Mine wasn't working,and I didn't want to ask the air hostess for help.After a few minutes,my screen came to life,although every button I punched after that took at least 1 minute to respond.I watched Shaggy Dog,which I have watched before,and when the lights in the cabin went off,I switched off the screen,closed my eyes and started thinking of what's waiting for me in New Zealand.

2007-03-11T01:21:00.000+13:00

I went to Rean's house today for lunch and,as expected,stayed for dinner and even coffee.We went for a sunset walk along beach (a bay actually),and was talking about a lot of things.God,I am gonna miss this woman when I return to Malaysia.She's been such a good mate in New Zealand.I wouldn't be seeing her until Christmas 2008,coz that's when she'll return home again.
Else,all's been good,returning home in 2 weeks,right now I am so torn between coming home and staying here.I actually went to the length of extending my visa but I decided that I still do have some commitments at home,therefore getting another 2 years of extended stay is not an option at this moment.
It's been great being here.With a friend like Rean,who makes you feel so welcome,New Zealand doesn't look so scary like when I first came.I am actually beginning to think New Zealand is home.Shen has changed her flight dates,she's now leaving to Taiwan on Monday 12th March.And that makes me officially the last one in my circle of international friends to leave New Zealand.Shen was supposed to leave on 30th March,6 days after me.I am not too happy about it =p,but I can't talk her out of it coz she already booked her tickets.Her excuse for leaving early?During one of her homestays in Tairua,she suddenly had a pang of homesickness!DUUUUUHHH..
Well,I suppose it's time for her to go home anyway.I don't in any way feel like changing my flight tickets,I think 2 weeks is gonna be flying very fast.Rean has kindly agreed to have a farewell party for me (Ahem..mate?LOL..) Other than that,this might me my second or third last entry for this blog,for I will not be blogging here after I leave New Zealand.Sad,aye?I am still searching for what God wanted me to find here in New Zealand,and I thought I will never find it,but I did.In a strange way,I did find what He wanted me to (or so I think ).
Else,will be working for another event in Waiheke Island on my last Saturday here,and a trip to Coromandel Peninsula for 2 nights,and I'm heading home.
And a song I dedicate for someone I have in mind now...=p

It's amazing how you can speak right to my heart
Without saying a word you can light up the dark
Try as I may I could never explain
What I hear when you don't say a thing
The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There's a truth in your eyes sayin' you'll never leave me
The touch of your hand says you'll catch me if ever I fall
You say it best when you say nothing at all
All day long I can hear people talking out loud
But when you hold me near, you drown out the crowd
Try as I may,I could never define
What's being said between your heart and mine
The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There's a truth in your eyes sayin' you'll never leave me
The touch of your hand says you'll catch me if ever I fall
You say it best when you say nothing at all
The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There's a truth in your eyes sayin' you'll never leave me
The touch of your hand says you'll catch me if ever I fall
You say it best when you say nothing at all

2007-03-07T00:04:00.000+13:00

I.DID.IT.I did it!The Tongariro Crossing!I thought I wouldn't do it,that I wouldn't have time and that it will too expensive and bla bla..but I did it.Another dream achieved!=).
I decided to go with Nakedbus.com,New Zealand's newest,low cost and no frills bus service.It's something like Air Asia,you book and pay online,and it was easy coz I have an Internet banking account here so I got the seats at absolutely cheap prices.Since I'm also working in the backpackers as an exchange staff,I called up the backpackers in Taupo and asked if they could give me a discount of some sort and bingo!$6 off my 2 nights accomodation!Just like that!So armed with my backpack,3 cans of tuna,1 loaf of bread,and some munchies,I started my journey from Auckland to Rotorua at 12pm,where I will change coaches in Rotorua to Taupo.I arrived in Taupo at about 5.15pm,and we couldn't stop at the I Site as the New Zealand Ironman competition was being held that day and the roads were all closed.The bus dropped us off one block away from the I Site and I walked to Burkes Backpackers,where the owner was already waiting for me.
After checking in,I asked him to book me for Tongariro Expeditions shuttle the next day,and went to fix myself a quick dinner of tuna sandwich and sleep early for the big day tomorrow.However,I think I was too excited,so I hardly slept.I was to wait for Tongariro Expeditions at 5.40am,so I woke up at 5am,had breakfast,grabbed my pack which I've already packed the night before with 2.25 litres of water,1 orange,lunch,raincoat,bandana,cap,first aid kit and extra pair of socks.The shuttle came at 5.45am,and it was packed.Suddenly I felt like I was doing something wrong.Like,what if I can't do it?I've not been active for quite sometime.But it's too late to turn back.I settled among the sleepy faces of all the other backpackers,and silently prayed that I can be done with this soon.
We arrived at Turangi to pick up some passengers,and the lady next to me got chatty and we got talking.She was from New Plymouth and loves tramping,so her husband and a few friends decided to give this a go.Seeing her so prepared gave me the chills,I was ready to call it quits when we received a piece of paper detailing our journey.It had all the fine prints,and also some important information regarding the conditions of the track,and it was to be kept with us all the time.By the time we arrived at Chateau Tongariro and at the start of the track at Mangatepopo car park,it was already 7.15am,the sun was rising and we all got off the bus,ready to start the 8 hour gruelling trek across Tongariro National Park.
Tongariro National Park,declared a World Heritage Area,consists of 3 mountains,Mt Ngauruhoe (pronounced Ngau-ru-ho-e),Mt Tongariro and Mt Ruapehu.Mt Ngauruhoe is Mordor in the film Lord of The Rings.The road leading to Tongariro Crossing track was apparently used for the opening scenes of LOTR-The Two Towers.This is an active volcano,and Mt Ruapehu last erupted in 1996.Mangatepopo carpark was at an altitude of 1190m,and we are going to trek 17 kilometres one way and come out to Ketetahi car park,and will be going as high as 1886m.
The hike to Mangatepopo Valley was nice and easy,the sun was just coming up and the track was flat,so everyone was in high spirits.I personally opted to go early (5.40am) and take the last bus out at 4.30pm,so I aimed at finishing the crossing at 4.15pm the latest.I have my cellphone with all emergency numbers ready for any disaster that may strike,so they will send a seach and rescue party for me!LOL..
Next came the steep track leading to the South Crater,christened "The Devil's Staircase".Boy and it DOES live up to its name!It was a section of steep rocks and volcanic debris,so we had to push ourselves to get to the top.I took about 1 hour on this section alone.It was hard.It was really hard.I stopped for breaks for 5 times.After huffing and puffing,I finally made it to the top,and after striking poses for some photographs,we started for Red Crater Ridge,our last big climb for the day.During this time I made friends with Lily,a Chinese-American who's here on a holiday.We hiked up Red Crater Ridge together,and it chill winds were blasting in our faces and we were just wearing singlets!Afraid I might get hypothermia (a lil too far fetched eh?=p),I quickly put on my jacket,and hiked up in the cold wind.My fingers were freezing and I couldn't take my camera out of the case.Red Crater Ridge was dangerous,as it was steep,slippery,narrow and had big drops on both sides.The leaflet warned us that "please don't walk too close to the edge of the track as if you fall you will never come out,"On my left was the drop to South Crater desert,and on my left,the drop all the way into the active volcano of Red Crater.The wind was pushing us,and we found ourselves on hand and knees,but we persisted,and we finally arrived at the summit.
From the summit it was an awesome view of Red Crater,Blue Lake and Emerald Lake.I honestly was amazed looking as something as awesome as this.The Emerald Lake was green and was glittering in the sunlight.Since its an active volcano there's also hot spots on the ground.Nevertheless,we had our lunch here and proceeded to descend by slipping down the scree,which was dangerous as we had to carefully slip down as well as maintain our balance.As soon as we were down,it was a nice and easy hike along the dead flat desert of volcanic rocks and sand towards Blue Lake,and it was all downhill from there.
We got caught in bad weather while still high up the mountains,but it didn't rain too heavily.The smell of sulphur,like rotten eggs,were all over.We walked the zig zagged track for 2 hours before reaching Ketetahi Hut (1450m),where we stopped for a break and proceeded non stop for the next 2 hours to Ketetahi car park where the track ends.
I arrived at the end of the track at 3pm.With all that breaks I took!I was so tired,yet so happy that I finally did it.I felt like collapsing on the grass and sleeping,but we were required to sign in with our driver,so by the time we located him it was time for the 3.30pm take off.I hopped into the bus,and just died in my seat.
Arrived Taupo at 4.15pm.Celebrated my walk with a cup of coffee.Will have my celebratory beer when I get back to Auckland.Had showers,early dinner,and slumped on my bed,and slept soundly until the next day.
Checked out at 10am,had breakfast,and was debating if I shoud stay in Taupo for another night/go to Rotorua and stay there for 1 night/go back to Auckland.Finally I decided to go to Rotorua.Arrived in Rotorua at 12pm.The smell of rotten eggs was so empowering.Rotorua,the geothermal activity capital in New Zealand,was literally in thermal smokes everywhere.I went to the I Site to consider my options.Staying in Rotorua wasn't an option at all.It was too touristic and I didn't like that.The four main attractions of thermal pools and the Polynesian Spa were too far away and I didn't feel like spending more than I have to,after splurging for Tongariro,but that's a different story altogether.So I booked the bus to Auckland at 4pm.To kill time,I wandered around and arrived at Kuirau Park,where some geothermal activity was taking place,like boiling mud and thermal pools.I soaked my tired feet for a while in the lukewarm waters,had some fish and chips for lunch,boarded the bus and arrived in Auckland at 8.20pm.
It was a good trip,I took quite a bit of pictures,and if I wasn't working on Wednesday,I probably would have continued my journey to Coromandel!But I am booked for the East Coast on 19th-21st of March,and Rean is going to join me!We met up today for coffee,and she was so nice to bring me dinner.Pasta.And since I practically live on a backpacker diet,I would say that the pasta was the best wholesome food I had this week!Thanks Rean!You're the best,buddy!
Do check out the pictures of Tongariro Crossing and Rotorua.The Crossing has every right in earning its status as the best one day hike in New Zealand and one of the top ten great hikes in the world.I will definitely do it again if I could (but please airlift me to the top of the Devil's Staircase please!LOL!).
See you guys soon!

2007-03-01T02:44:00.000+13:00

I've been having sore throat and dry cough since Monday.I bought a "Koru" bone carved necklace from the Victoria Park Market on Monday evening.Koru,in Maori,means new beginning.It's also my favourite symbol,the new leaf of the punga tree,sacred for the Maoris.
Back to me being sick.Feel so weak and feverish,and I was hoping that I wouldn't be sick for my Tongariro trip,because I so want to go.My voice changed to sound like a croaking frog.
Unable to get up and do anything,I was lying in bed the whole day.Rean was nice enough to ask if I wanted her to bring me some dinner.I declined politely,summoned the energy to wake up and go make myself some pasta.Having eaten,I slumped on bed again,and since there was no internet connection last nite,I slept soundly till early this morning.
I was supposed to meet Rean for breakfast,but she was late for class,so I had a Subway egg and cheese sandwich for breakfast.Yesterday she got me to buy a medicine called Lemsip,for cold and flu symptoms and sore throat too.It tasted like Eno,which was OK,but this morning my throat got worse,which is not OK.And to make it worse,(thanks to Rean to said I might feel sick coz I'm just lazing in bed)I took a walk to Auckland Museum,and after seeing all the exhibits,couldn't resist for a hot chocolate.It was raining after all.So there I was,sipping hot chocolate on a rainy day and doing more damage to my throat.
Auckland Museum was good.I'm not exactly a museum person,but I must say Auckland Museum was worth it.I especially liked the "Weird and Wonderful" and "Volcanoes" exhibit.Weird and Wonderful had exhibits of insects (live cockroaches,bugs,etc) and lots and lots of animals,while Volcanoes had..well,volcanoes.Since New Zealand (Auckland,especially)sits on some 45 extinct volcanoes and active ones (Ruapehu,White Island,etc),Volcanoes was one of the hottest exhibit.Anna actually recommended me this section.And the most awesome exhibit is the one on "1,Puia St",where there was a real house,with in built sensors and a giant screen which shows you what happens if a volcano erupts in Auckland Harbour tomorrow!I got in the house,and sat in the sofa and suddenly you can hear rumbles..which gets louder by the second,and the giant screen shows a small volcano near Rangitoto Island erupting,and suddenly the lights flicker,the ground shakes,the lights goes off,and you see think black smoke rushing towards you.It's so real.What with the smoke,lights going off,grounds shaking..=).It's not like I've experienced volcano eruption back in Malaysia (I don't want to,after seeing what happened),but I'd say it was a pretty cool experience.
The Maori Court was pretty amazing too.They had the canoe which supposedly was pedalled by the first settlers who came to New Zealand,and the traditional Maori marae,or meeting house.And scores of other Maori exhibits,and they were also having a special screening of Vaka Moana-The Untold Story of the World's Greatest Voyage,which is about the journey of the settlers who first came.Not too keen about knowing how people of the past actually came and made New Zealand the place it is now,I wandered out and walked back to the city,in the rain.
Else,Anna left,she texted me from Sydney,saying it's a nice place.I've already got a reminder from NZ Immigration,reminding me that my permit is about to expire and if I wanna extend my stay.Haven't gave it much thought yet.Right now I'm just concentrating on getting better for my Tongariro Crossing trip next week.
Will upload pictures of Auckland Museum soon.Check back!=)

2007-02-22T01:30:00.000+13:00

Anna and I went to Mission Bay to watch the sunrise on Tuesday.She got the car from one of her Kiwi friend so we were off at 5.45am.After having breakfast we just drove to the beach and parked ourselves there.Unfortunately the sunrise wasn't as glorious as the ones you get on postcards,it was cloudy and we hardly saw the sun.Didn't wanna spoil the day (and didn't wanna waste 1 day of having such a chic car),Anna suggested we drive to Mangawhai Beach,about 150km north of Auckland,almost near Whangarei.So off we went.The scenery was beautiful,it was a lovely day,and Anna was a great company.We arrived in Mangawhai at about 11am,changed to our swimming attire and went to the beach.
We didn't swim really long,as it was a HOT day,and none of us had a surf board.It was so good to just go for a dip in the cold water though.After a short swim we went for a long walk along the beach,collecting paua shells.Paua shells looks like mussell shells,except that they have a beautiful glitter of rainbow colours.In New Zealand,paua shells are used for souvenirs and (I'm not sure how true is this) is also considered sacred to the Maoris.
We managed to find some broken ones,and after changing into dry clothes again,we drove to the small quaint town of Mangawhai to have lunch.I opted for a Butter Chicken meal while Anna had pizza.It was a cool,breezy day and after lunch,we headed back to Auckland,stopping briefly at a Honey Centre coz Anna,being the honey junkie that she is,wanted to buy some New Zealand honey before she gets back home.
We arrived in Auckland at about 4.30pm,I accompanied Anna to a souvenir shop and afterwards I went back to the backpackers.Since I didn't really have much sleep the night before,I slumped on my bed and just dozed off,only to be woken up by an SMS from Suzie and Johanna,who just arrived in Auckland and couldn't wait until the next day to meet up * grinzz*.
So we met at 9.15pm at the Skytower,and went to Starbucks for coffee.They looked positively tired,having arrived from Taupo to Auckland,which is about 5 hours drive.Nevertheless,we exchanged travel stories,boy they sure had lotsa stories to tell and gossips!They were regalling me with gossips about AJ and most of the other people we met in Blenheim.Apparently they made a brief stopover in Blenheim to meet the Malaysian boys.
After they went off,I tried sleeping again,but couldn't,so I went online for a while and slept at 2am.This morning,I kinda woke up early and was walking to Skycity to the Intercity bus station to book my upcoming Tongariro travel,when I met Suzie and Johanna again.They were buying their Airbus tickets.I got a call from Rean,asking me to come over to AUT as the student orientation is going on.So I went to AUT,and she was excitedly telling me about her new tertiary pack which she signed up for with a bank,and she's getting a free MP3 player.There was a hotdog stand which were serving fresh hotdogs,and so we grabbed some and after that went for coffee.She ponteng her class,complaining how boring it was.Ponteng kelas kau ye,Rean!* LOLZ..*
She left at 12.30pm to go to work,and I was walking back and was thinking of sleeping for my night shift tonight when Suzie and Johanna came and knocked on the door,to ask assistance in filing their tax claim form.So off I went again,to Inland Revenue,to help them fill out the form.By the end of it all I was really exhausted.i asked Rean if she would go out with me for dinner,but she had shopping to do.Anna was busy today,doing taxes and closing bank accounts,so I didn't get to see her today.
Rean and I are going for a small farewell gathering for Anna tomorrow at a bar in the waterfront downtown.Final say,I got back,tried to sleep but couldn't,tried to eat but I've ran outta food to cook,so I had showers and signed on for night sec duty with a mug of coffee.
I've counted and I have another 4 weeks here in NZ.It's coming to an end!No,and I'm serious this time..I REALLY DON'T WANNA COME BACK!!

2007-02-14T00:53:00.000+13:00

It's freezing cold in Auckland City.It's supposed to be summer!Today Anna and I went to Devonport and climbed Mt Victoria for a sunset view from the summit.It was amazing.Seriously.We hesistated to go as the weather was not so good,and it wouldn't be the best sunset ever,but we're glad we went ahead coz the sun started shining just as we hopped on the ferry.
We got incredible photo shoots,it was truly an amazing sight.Rean is on my BestMate plan,something like Activ5 for Maxis,and I can call,text and video her for as much as I want for $6 a month.So called her and spoke for 40 minutes today,it's good to still hear the Malaysian slang=)
Well,back to Devonport.Anna and I left at 9.30pm,and taking in the view of Auckland's night sky from the ferry.I was too hungry and too tired,so I grabbed a Subway sandwich and made my way back.After making a mug of coffee and eaten my sandwich,I signed in for my night sec duty for tonight and tomorrow night.
The agency Rean and I registered for sent us to work for Skycity Hotel and Convention Centre on Sunday night.The function?The 25th anniversary of round the world cruise of the world's biggest ocean liner,the Queen Mary 2.Naturally,I was really excited.It was supposed to be from 3pm until 2am.You would think with a place as big as that would have good and proper coordination skills.But heck,no.It was the worst ever.I swear i have no idea,why Skycity hired 150 staff,from 4 agencies to cover one night.It wasn't like it was the MTV Awards or anything.It was just a bunch of rich old people who spent USD$45k per person for this world cruise.150 staff to take care of them was ridiculous.
For a start,we didn't have proper groups.We had about 8 supervisors,and got divided into groups and my group was supposed to take care of the banquet tables in the main ballroom.Halfway,suddenly we were asked to serve beverages to guests!Well,not that I minded much,but the trays were heavy and we had to circulate around the ballroom giving everyone drinks.Due to the many people,glasses were breaking and alcohol was spilling,but nobody cared much.Halfway through,everyone got separated,lost among the crowds,and it was hard to recognise each other coz we all only met each other like 1 hour before.
The main ballroom was worse,we who were asked to take care of the tables,immediately found out that there were already waiters allocated for each table.So we were generally left doing nothing,except for walking about holding champagne bottle and acting like we had something to do.Rean had the easiest job though,she was ushering.She got bored of the work so she sneaked inside to join me in the ballroom where all the action was taking place.
Well,we left at 11.30pm.I couldn't take another minute there.It was tiring and I didn't have enough sleep in the past 2 days.And I surprised myself,even with all that tiredness,I managed to go online and stay for 3 hours..
Well,at least I got to see the Haka dance live for the first time.

2007-02-10T05:00:00.000+13:00

It's my first day at Surf N' Snow Backpackers doing exchange work.I did want to do exchange work at some point of my stay here,and this was a good chance.(Wanted to do exchange work in National Park though,but I was too settled in Auckland and the thoughts of packing my bags again terrified me,so I'm gonna stay here until I return).
I started at 11pm and will finish at 7am,and I will be doing this for 2 nights in a week in exchange for free accomodation.It wasn't too bad,it's 5.11am now and all I had to do today was give someone a wake up call (she had to go to the airport for her 6am flight),print out a check out report,check some people in,count money in the till and log on to MSN Messenger and chat.I am tired allright,as I got back from work at 5pm today and didn't get much sleep (about 2 hours)and I will have to stay awake until about 9am or so until Rean comes to go with me to the agency we both registered to work for on Sunday.
I can see the Skytower right behind me from the window.It's still hard to believe it's the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere.Anyway,let me tell you about what happened at work today.I took the kitchen position today as we had other bartenders working today.The chef,Eddy,was being a lil cranky and grumpy all week (Monday was terrible,he was practically screaming at everyone,until the manager had to come and do some peace talk).I thought he'd get over it but he didn't.We were slammed left and right and all the mistakes became our faults!I was going to work until 9.30pm tonight,come back,have showers and dinner and maybe a strong cup of coffee and commence my night duty but seeing him so cranky made me change my mind,I went off at 5pm.
Well,I heard from the other staff that he's got some personal problems and he's being moody all the time.Well,personally Ii can understand how it feels to have problems and to bring em to work,but shouting and blaming your staff is terrible.I will be telling him that I am leaving next week,as he wants a 2 weeks notice before I leave.Else,I have caught up with Suzie and Yohanna,who's still in South Island and will be travelling up north next week to do Tongariro,and hopefully I will be able to join em.Rean has expressed interest to join us,and if I go to National Park next week Rean will be coming with me.
We had a public holiday on 6th Feb,Waitangi Day.Rean invited me for a day out with them to Long Bay,and we had a pretty good time in the beach.It was a surf beach,apparently,and the waves were gigantic.(And I thought Cherating was rough!LOL!)Well they all had surf boards and I didn't,so I didn't go too far.Prakash and Raveen offered theirs to me but I was in the mood to swim,not to surf so I declined.After chilling for a while,we went for coffee,and they dropped me back in the city.I just got into the backpackers and was gonna lie down and take a nap when Rean texted asking if I wanna go over to her house as she is cooking dhall curry.
Dhal curry!Man I miss Malaysia!.Nevertheless I went to her house,Prakash picked me up from Panmure.The dhall curry was superb allright.After dinner we had several shots of vodka and watched a movie,Blood Diamond.I stayed overnight in her place,woke up at 10 the next day,had a late breakfast and Rean dropped me off in the city on her way to work.
My German friend,Anna and I are planning to go to Raglan,the best surf beach in New Zealand,and start our journey by watching the sunrise from Mission Bay,go on to Raglan,climb Mt Victoria to watch the sunset,and go on to One Tree Hill and watch the view of Auckland at night.
It's gonna be a long day,but it's gonna be beautiful.
Till the next update,people.I'm having a headache doing night shift!

2007-01-31T11:54:00.000+13:00

I.am.having.a.good.time.in.Auckland.
OK,for a start,I am now working in a bar in the waterfront of the Auckland Harbour.I got qualified with a licence so it was easier to get the job.However,at times when the bar's not full (and it usually isn't),and due to business requirements,I am sometimes required to help out in the kitchen,helping the kitchenhands to prepare food,which I absolutely enjoy doing.For a start,hey,how many of you can cook Thai's Green Curry,Red Curry and Panang Curry?I can!=)The chef's from Hong Kong and he's been here for quite sometime.The head chef is from..yes,you guessed it,Thailand.They are all nice people and I am actually happy to be working with them.I also get staff meals and drinks (I'm not too much of a drinker so I only take a glass of wine on Saturday nights after work ).The chef,Eddy,makes wonderful stir fries and I have actually learned how to make them.Apart from that,on nights where rugby is on the menu,I get to learn how to prepare cute little munchies and burgers and wedges and chicken sauce to go with crispy nachos!Now isn't that good.I am seriously thinking of having a homecoming party when I get back and show off my culinary skills! (For all those who will be invited,please also make sure your insurance policy is up to date..LOL..)
Apart from that,I also got an exchange job in a cool backpackers situated just opposite the SkyTower.In exchange for free accomodation,all I have to do is man the reception counter for 2 nights in a week.Also,I was looking to do some sort of exchange work in New Zealand and this was a chance too good to miss.
Else,am coming close to the end of my trip,it's already February!Been sorting out the last 4 places to travel and I'll be on my way home.Gosh..time really flies when you are having fun!I will be doing exchange work with Surf n' Snow Backpackers until end of February or early March,then it's Tongariro Crossing,Rotorua/Taupo,Coromandel and the Bay of Islands!Hopefully,all will go well,and I will also get a glimpse of autumn before I leave New Zealand.

2007-01-15T20:15:00.000+13:00

I arrived in Auckland at 6am on Saturday (supposed to reach at 6.50am but the driver was well..fast).It was raining and I had my heavy backpack on,trying to find my way to the accomodation I booked few days ago.Didn't have a good sleep,I was expecting the Night Bus to be quiet and empty but turned out to be full and noisy!The South African woman behind me wasn't too happy about me lowering the seat,so I had to sleep with the seat up,which wasn't too comfy.We stopped at Turangi for a driver change at 2.30am,and at Wairakei for coffee at about 3.20am.
Back to Auckland.Well,since it was raining,the day was so gray I felt so cold and empty inside.I asked some passer-by for directions but none knew.Finally a guy from India showed me where it is,but not before getting my mobile number "to keep in touch".Jeez!I arrived City Groove Backpackers at 9.30am,and the staff,whoever took my booking call,didn't key it into their system and as such,I appeared to have made no bookings!He gave me 6 nights,and I will have to find somewhere else to live by Friday.
Too hungry,I was venturing out to Foodtown to get some groceries when the Queen of Malaysia in Auckland texted.Rean.She asked if I wanna join her near her house to shopping together!So I hopped on a train to Panmure,and after some intial confusion,Rean,her boyfriend and her sister's boyfriend came to pick me up.
It was so good to see Rean again.We went for Chinese food,and she handed me my stuff from Malaysia.I will specially mention Jackie,who have proved that she IS the friend for everyone to have,for making my glasses for me.It was a perfect power!I felt like I got my life back.Thanks mate!And not forgetting Thevika,who sent me some stuff to read and my sweater.Now I have 2 sweaters and I don't have to worry if 1 gets wet =).Will belanja you both teh tarik when I return! =p.
After going groceries shopping with them (where they bought half of the Pak' N' Save in Botany),we chilled for awhile in her house,a cosy lil place in the suburbs of Auckland.Rean sent me back at about 9.30pm,and I just slumped on my bed and slept until 10.30am the next day!
Auckland looks the same,I miss this place loads.I went walking to Queen St,looking at all people,natinalities,culture.It's so good to be here.
And suddenly I don't feel like going home.

2007-01-12T08:43:00.000+13:00

*caps lock not working*
i am leaving blenheim in a few hours,going to picton to take the interislander ferry across the cook straits,get to wellington,spend about 3 hours there and hop on the bus to....auckland!!
suprised?don't be.yes my friends.i'm leaving to auckland tonight.would arrive there early tomorrow morning (6.50am)and check into my accomodation and sleep.i have about 2 1/2 months left of my trip,and its time to visit the north island.
i have done quite an extensive trip in the south,but my only regret will always be not being able to go to the glaciers because of bad weather!every outdoor activity here is weather dependant,so although i did try to save enough and go,the weather was bad and would continue to be for the next 2-3 days,which i can't afford to stay anymore due to my timing schedule.
i still haven't gave up hope,i am still secretly wishing i could go to the glaciers again maybe in my last week here,so now i am heading to auckland to maybe work and travel up north to paihia,kerikeri and the bay of islands!kate and megan are there,i will meet them up before i leave,and most of my travel mates are already leaving to their home country in february.that's gonna be sad coz we all text each other all the time to check our travel routes and get advices,and with all of them gone i will be alone for a month before i get bundled in that huge airbus.
will be meeting up with rean when i get to auckland,well at least i still have someone in new zealand..=)
will be updating from auckland,and the time to come back is getting nearer..i miss home so much,miss my family,my dog,my friends..but i know above all,i will miss new zealand the most when i get home!
cheers and miss you guys!

2006-12-30T12:31:00.000+13:00

Been quite a while since I updated.Well,for a start,I am in Blenheim,working in the vineyards to save enough for my glacier trips and kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park.I happen to walk into a backpackers,which is also a worker's accomodation,and so I met a group of Malaysian Chinese boys (all aged 23)and a old Malaysian couple who's also working for the same boss.
The moment I came in,the couple told me the boss is a very bad Indian man (from India)and that I shouldn't work for him.Well,I am just gonna be here for a short while so I didn't care.The Indian man was bad allrite,his name is A.J,and he told me that " I have met many Malaysian girls,they all look horrible,but you are cute,".What an idiot.He even called me to the beach for a swim.As the days progressed,I met 2 German girls,and proceeded to move in with them in a holiday park,staying in a caravan.The 3 of us and the 6 Malaysian guys always hang out together.And working with A.J is like working for a slavemaster.He never respects his employees and calls everyone idiots.The last straw came on Thursday,when he complained the blocks wasn't being worked well and he wants us all to re-do the whole thing WITHOUT PAY.The German girls,1 Taiwanese girl and I walked out,in the hot sweltering sun,and didn't know the way out (Vineyards are all usually situated in the mountains or some deep inside narrow roads).As such,we walked and came across a farmhouse and asked the occupant for a number of a cab.It turned out that the man was the manager of the vineyard and A.J was contracting for him.Apa lagi,we complained to him and he said he'll "sort A.J out".
We are now working with the Malaysian guys,and we will finish next week.I decided to stay a lil longer coz the 2 German girls,Suzie and Yohanna,are going to the glaciers and I could hitch a ride.Suits me just fine coz I am getting tired of the vineyard work and going by myself is gonna be very very expensive.
Else,we went to The Nativity Church for midnight mass on Christmas Eve,and went to pub to dance.We sat all night talking to the Malaysian guys and only went home at 3.30am.
We are going to Nelson to celebrate the New Year,where I am meeting another French friend and a Japanese friend,and we all are planning to spread our sleeping bags in the beach and sleep there until the first sun of 2007 rises.
Happy 2007 to all and I miss everyone.Now I feel HSBC is the best place I've ever worked!Looks like I owe Anba an apology..hehe..
Love you all!!

2006-12-16T11:26:00.000+13:00

I ran outta money in Christchurch.I was there after a bad bad night in Ashburton,my next stop after Dunedin.Initially I was going to work in Ashburton and base myself there for the next trips to Lake Tekapo,Mount Cook and Franz Josef Glaciers,but I arrived in Ashburton at about 6.30pm,this guy who owns the backpackers I called picked me up and drove me to this huge mansion situated in a quiet road and was so far away from civilization!The house looks like the castles you get to see in horror movies.It was messy and dirty and this guy lives there alone.Well,too tired to argue, he gave me a room,and I put my stuff there and told him I am outta there the next morning.
He took me on a tour of the 'horror mansion" and some fields around,I just had a cup of Oats and couldn't sleep at all that night.I was awake playing games on my phone (Thank God for Nokia phones!).I was outta there by 8am,sat wandering the streets of Ashburton until 12.20pm,when the bus came and I hopped on to Christchurch.
Was in Christchurch for 2 nights,and hopped on the bus again to Blenheim,my first stop when I forst came to South Island.Hopefully after the glaciers trip I will be going off to North Island,I am due to start a short course in Event Management in Auckland University of Technology in January,and planning to meet and work with Kate and Megan again in Kerikeri,3 hours north of Auckland.I believe time is running pretty fast,and before I know it I will be bundled in the huge Airbus Thai Airways plane,bound for home!

2006-12-04T10:58:00.000+13:00

I am in Queenstown having a blast.Well,OK,not so blast.Firstly,I lost my glasses.yes,my friend,my trusted ol' glasses is missing =(.It was my last day in the vineyards and I took it off while working and hung it in my sweater, and the next thing I know it was gone.
I did try searching the area,but each rows of the vineyards are almost 1 km long so searching for long is out of the question.Finally,I resigned to fact that I will have to make a new glasses.But guess what?A new pair of glasses is costing me $500!That's about RM1200 if you make the convertion and I got my old glasses for only RM80.I am still pondering my options..a friend has agreed to make a new pair in Malaysia and send it over so I am waiting.
Else,I went up the Queenstown Gondola and did a 12 hour trip to Milford Sound (Queenstown-Te Anau-Milford Sound and return).By the time I got back to Queenstown I was so exhausted I just slumped on the bed.
Milford Sound was good,and I can tell you that Kiwis are great when it comes to hospitality.They make sure they deliver the best to you,and that includes GOOD customer service.Although it was only two of us on board the EcoTours van to Te Anau,the driver was giving us a full commentary on board,including some Maori legend regarding the existence of Lake Wakatipu,the second largest lake in New Zealand.I am amazed at how knowledgeable they are.Apart from that,they also give you the freedom to stop at anywhere you like for some photo shoots,toilet stops,and you can ask them anything you want to.I certainly felt I got my money's worth (The trip cost me $150),not to mention the spectacular sunset we saw on the way home last night.And I also captured a rainbow at one of the waterfalls we stopped at!I even got in on video!It was amazing.The picture is on the link,so you can have a look at it.Too bad I lost my glasses.
I am leaving to Dunedin later today at 3pm,will be going to Baldwin St,the steepest street in the world and maybe to St Kilda's Beach.That depends on how tired I am.Then I am going to Ashburton to work again and going up north on 31st December.Sandra texted me last night and I heard some good news from her.My Taiwanese friends had a small farewell party for me before I left,and I even taught Shen the song "Theepidika".LOLZ..We were so bored in the vineyard and that's what happened.
You will be amazed to see the amount of Malaysian Indians in Alexandra/Roxburgh,who are here on a visitor's visa and wanting to apply for seasonal work permit.It's like seeing illegal immigrants in Malaysia.And nobody is on a working holiday!According to them working holiday visa is hard to get.I believe if you go through the right channel,working holiday is easy.And working holiday visa gives you the rights to work anywhere in NZ,in any industry.Seasonal work permit only allows you to work in certain parts of NZ,and you can't work in any other industry.So you are stuck with fruits all the time.Although the outdoor work can be fun,it is also weather dependant,and it is not usually an easy task all the time.
Well,that's my 2 cents worth.I've gotta go have my brunch and catch my bus to Dunedin.I miss you all and do write.Love you all loads!!

2006-11-25T11:35:00.000+13:00

Kate and Megan left last night to Dunedin.I was left alone with Shen now.Thank God we are already leaving next week.Another week of work and I am off to Te Anau for another holiday and to go on a cruise to MIlford Sound,rated as one of best cruises in the world.It's going to be hard working without Kate and Megan,we have grown close for the past couple of weeks and the silence after they left was defeaning.
The week before,Shen and I along with a Kiwi guy and two other Taiwanese went on a day trip to Haast,along the West Coast for some tramps.We also stopped at Wanaka,Lake Hawea and Queenstown.It was a really good journey and we went on 3 short tramps which ended at waterfalls,which was water generated from melted snow.It was awesome and the rivers are so clean!I wished rivers in Malaysia were that clean.
I got invited for a farewell party in someone's house on Thursday night,this girl is a known drug addict and a alcoholic who works with us.She's 18,and is actually a nice girl otherwise,but she's the type you'd rather not mess with.Cutting the long story short,we had a new roomie,Charlotte,who's a lil weird,she looks goth to me so I don't really talk to her but Kate and Megan were so friendly with her.Shen didn't wanna go to the party so Charlotte invited herself (Heidi,the host,didn't invite her and wasn't aware that she was going to be coming with us ) and Kate and Megan allowed her to come.Turned out,she drank at least 6 glasses of alcohol.got drunk,slapped Heidi 3 times and a series of insults along with fights ensued.I was only then told that Charlotte was just 15 (underage to drink) and she's got a great deal of attitude problems and her parents just couldn't handle her anymore and let her go her own way.She gave everybody a great deal of problems that night,especially us who had to drag her home,and she even tried to jump out the window from our room in the first floor!
The next day she just acted like nothing happened,and we all just gave her to silent treatment.Heidi would have punched her in the face if she was not restrained by everybody else.I will update photos soon,and you all can see who's Charlotte and Heidi.Not a good start for my first party in New Zealand =).Else,I am leaving to Ashburton next week,and I have decided to go to Auckland.Will update soon on any changes.
Miss you all so much!

2006-11-16T17:26:00.000+13:00

I realised that I wasn't updating and it was actually a test to my ERT team,who failed me tremendously.Guys,you are all out!!LOL..Anyway I left Christchurch on God knows when,and stayed in Dunedin for 1 night,booked a trip to Alexandra and here I am,in Alexandra working in the vineyards again!
The place I work here is superb.I mean,superb and really good.The vineyard is the biggest of the pinot noir wine type in the Otago region.The people are very nice,and I have two close friends,Kate and Megan,who are Kiwis and studying in University of Otago and are here to work for the summer.They are my roomies,along with a Taiwanese girl called Shen,and we all have real good time together.
Life here is quiet and peaceful.Sometimes I go out to the supermarket and get my groceries,or read.I joined the Otago Central District Library and have been borrowing books from there.The library is well stocked and everyone is so friendly.Last week I went cycling along the Central Otago Rail Trail with Megan. (I wished I could tell you guys more about it,but I think it's some kind of abandoned rail project,which is now converted to a rail trail and it's really famous,do look up the WWW if you want to know more).
Called HSBC last week and felt so good to hear everybody's voice.Felt so close to home.Guys,I love you all loads!!Apart from that,I met a Malaysian guy here (Indian) and had several guys as roomies for the past couple of weeks.Kate and Megan are leaving next week,whereas Shen and I might leave the week after.Haven't planned what I am gonna be doing but I am going to Wanaka this weekend for a holiday and do some hiking in Mt Aspiring National Park!.
Everyday after work the four of us park ourselves in front of the TV and watch whatever that is showing.We'd prepare lunch for the next day and are asleep by 11pm.The sun rises at 5.30am and sets at 9.30pm.It's like daylight from the time I wake up and go to bed!
Missing everybody loads,sorry for not updating,my small but faithful blog readers have complained =).Apart from everything else,all is fine and good,and I am happy here,much happier than I have been.I'm so glad this big OE came my way.
Will update soon!

2006-10-30T20:44:00.000+13:00

I am in Christchurch,and everyone was right,I can be forgiven if I wake up and think that I am in UK instead of New Zealand.Christchurch,New Zealand's Garden City and "the most English city outside England",is bustling with activities now that the summer's here.I am here for 4 nights,staying in the city centre YHA.Great people,great weather,great things to do.Tomorrow I'm taking the tram ride to the main city attractions like the casino,Art Gallery,Canterbury Museum,Avon River and The Cathedral.
The Cathedral is 1 block away from where I stay,and it's lovely.Check out my picture through the link!There was an Irish dance on Sunday,and every Friday there's a choir performance.It's a big space where people walk and take pictures and sit and relax.It's really a nice place,and the Cathedral Church stands magnificiently at one corner.
I got a job offer for a temping role for New Zealand's Telecom,and I'd be going for the interview tomorrow.If I land that job I'd stay in Christchurch until December!That suits me really fine as I can do Dunedin,Queenstown and Otago during the weekends and be in Wellington in time for the New Year.
People here are pretty open,sex scenes and vulgar languages are common on TVs.Everyday there's a movie screening on TV at 8.30pm.Party pills are sold everywhere,and there are strip clubs in here and Wellington (should have some in Auckland,will check out when I get there in February..LOL)I am still being good (hehe) and hope I'd be good until I get home!
I am starting to adapt to the cold,although I still go out with my windbreaker+sweater+winter cap,I can now sleep with shorts and not feel too cold.I met a young Malaysian Malay girl here.I was at a college enquiring about their short courses and the receptionist,upon learning I am from Malaysia,quickly went away and dragged a sweet looking woman,whom I learned as Nur Akasyah,graduate from UiTM Shah Alam and just graduated from Lincoln University,a full time business lecturer in Canterbury College.We chatted and promised to keep in touch.Nice to see a good Malaysian here.OK Rean,apart from you.LOL =)
Will update soon.Meanwhile,keep me going and I miss you all so much!

2006-10-25T12:36:00.000+13:00

* the caps lock is still not working *
i did four days of kuli work in the vineyard last week.the job's exactly like the ones you'll see the bangladeshis and indonesians doing in malaysia.no doubt it was good with lotsa outdoors and surrounded by mountains (some snow capped,no less) but it's also cold,eventhough the summer's on 1st november,it's pretty sunny but the wind's cold and we all wear sweaters and work in the vineyards.
there are some malaysians here.ashish told me i am the only indian from malaysia with a working holiday visa he's seen so far because working holiday visas are hard to come by.well,i got mine pretty easy (less than 24 hours)so i'll count myself lucky.lol.about 3 chinese,2 indians and 1 malay,all male.while the chinese are friendly,the malay guy is bossy and the indian guys are snobbish.they wouldn't talk when i ask them where they come from!i always thought malaysians are a friendly lot?
well,after breaking my back doing those kuli jobs and going in the sun without a sunscreen and caused my skin to suffer some sunburn,i am finally ready to move on.to christchurch.will be starting on monday and stay for 2 weeks,before moving to otago and finally to invercargill,the world's southernmost city!from there i'll be back up to wellington,hoping to be in wellington by 31st december 2006.
else,one of my hsbc mates are here,sharmini and her boyfriend (sharmini's from fd t6,moved on to eds,i'm sure all the fd-ers will know her).they are here to work for about 3 months,and are currently staying in blenheim with me.we were planning to go to nelson lakes or abel tasman national park this weekend.(due to bloody bad weather,my abel tasman trip had to be cancelled coz i can't even walk out my room without covering myself from top to toe,let alone go hiking and swimming and kayaking.it was raining for the 3 days off we got.nonsense!)
hope everyone had a good deepavali and hari raya,i am making a slideshow and a short movie of my travels here,and that includes getting some exclusive interviews from people whom i believe have made a significant change in my life here in new zealand.rean,you would be one of them!lol!
can't wait to be back to see all of you guys.i am having a good time here with not much worries in the world.we'd go parrrrrrttttyyyyy when i'm back!hehe!
till the next update,cheers!

2006-10-17T16:56:00.000+13:00

* currently the pc is experiencing some technical error,so the caps lock function is not working *
i crossed the cook straits on saturday to south island.it was a hasty decision,given the time frame because i was supposed to be in wellington until today.but alas,i decided to just cross over and s ee what south island has to offer me!
the sailing was incredible.it was 3 hours,and the ferry resembled titanic!it was so huge,and we had bars and cafes and even a game room on board!now langkawi ferry doesn't seem amazng anymore,though thev iews still is..=).
i was met by my employer,his name is ashish,he's indian from india.he piecked me up and drove me to the house,my accomodation where i will be sharing with another few people.it was $95 per week,and although the house had everything (well,almost everything),it didn't have a landline or internet.i asked him how far is the town centre from the house and he said it's about 20 minutes walk.well,i couldn't sleep the first night.the bed was so hard and i was alone in the room,at one point i was seriously reconsidering my decision on why the hell did i come to new zealand.
the next day,i saw this man who looked indian,who came to mow the lawn in the house.i went up to him,chatted up a few words and asked him if he can give me a lift to the nearest backpackers.he said ok,i packed my stuff,called ashish and checked in into blenheim motor homes,a holiday park.its $100 per week,and it's ok for now.extra $5 a week for some serious peace of mind.plus here i get internet free.and a landline is available,so bingo!
you'll be amazed at how many people don't know about malaysia.the other day when i was talking to my japanese friend,we were both so bored in the packhouse that we decided to talk about each other's country.the conversation went like this..
(please read as i spell it,thank you)
yuko - so ku-na,in malazia how many seazon do you have?
me - erm,maybe just 2,spring and summer,because we don't have winter and autumn.
yuko - hoaa?!no winter in malazia?
me - (while watching her face widen in horror) well,no.
yuko - hmm..that is amazing.
me - you don't know about malaysia?
yuko - not much,all i know is this (she made an action resembling some cow horn,and it took me a full minute to understand that she was actually mimicking the twin towers!)
the job in the vineyard is ok,expect for ashish,apparently yesterday i nearly spoiled one of his plant so he was keeping watch over me.we had a beer each to celebrate the end of thinning today,tomorrow we are gonna start a new work which i don't know what just yet.
if everything goes well,i'll be here for sometime and travel south to canterbury.there is a few places i want to visit,and go skiing before the snow melts,and back up north,starting in wellington and up,up,up until northland,and back to auckland to catch my flight home!
i miss deepavali and the festive season..it muct be so happy in malaysia right now.i miss all of my friends,the smses,the greetings,the cookies (jam tarts!waaaaaaa!!),mom's cooking (i'm dying with my own cooking now!hehe)and the movies on tv.
guess i will have to bear all this,so to make up for the fun i am gonna be missing,i am planning a sailing trip to abel tasman national park,rated as lonely planet's one of the best national parks in the world,this weekend.if i get going,i'll post you all some really good pictures!
miss you all loads people.happy deepavali and selamat hari raya!!!!!!

2006-10-10T19:30:00.000+13:00

I have uploaded some pictures from my trip to Mount Maunganui last Sunday with 2 of my Japanese friends.It's beautiful,really.Will update my blog soon guys,updates for now are my work is finished,so I am moving on to Wellington and possibly to South Island.Till then,will keep you all posted.Miss you all.

2006-10-06T16:08:00.000+13:00

I am in Tauranga City,arrived here and am staying in Just The Duck Nut's backpackers,a clean and cozy place.I have a view of Mount Maunganui and the harbour from my room,from my bed!It's beautiful,really.I am planning to be here for about 3 weeks to a month,and started my job in the kiwifruit packhouse yesterday.
I tell you,checking those kiwifruits and making sure they are OK for exporting is NO EASY FEAT!Well,I have to stand for 10 hours and look at those kiwis,and let my mind wander to take my mind off the pain in my legs and hands and back.Lunch time is only half an hour,although we get breaks every two hours,I feel it's really tough.Today I skipped work to go to downtown Tauranga to get my new ATM card from Bank of New Zealand.Went shopping in Pak'n Save,and you wouldn't believe what I bought!Sausages,burgers,tomatoes,salads,sauce,minced chicken.I'm gonna cook!Woo hoo!=)Well yes that's all for now.
Check out the pictures I uploaded.Keep the comments coming.I miss Malaysia loads.Sorry for the short update but I have to be running back to the backpackers before it gets dark.

2006-10-03T18:32:00.000+13:00

When I was back in HSBC,my manager Mahen gave me a book about this one particular remarkable man who,lost his leg at the age of 9 but went on to be a qualified pilot,a black belt holder in taekwando,a successful businessman,and scores of other achievements.He gave me the book because I complained I was demotivated at work.In that book,that guy came from a small seaside town called Tauranga in New Zealand.
And there,my friend,is where I am gonna be heading tomorrow!
Tauranga City,about an hour's drive from Te Puke,is a bustling harbour with a lovely mountain for trekking called Mount Maunganui is situated.I am going to be staying in a small backpacker's accomodation called Just The Duck Nut's.My plan is I am gonna work for about 1 month,and head south to Wellington and temp there for another month,and cross the straits to South Island!
Many people here told me South Island is beautiful.Many of New Zealand's finest tracks,hills,mountains,lakes,streams and glaciers are situated in South Island.I can't wait to go.Other than that,I'm going on.People here are very friendly,except for some,which I try to avoid at all costs.I can walk for half an hour and back with my sweater on and still not sweat.The weather here is always cold.I am looking forward to get to Wellington,dubbed the Windy city.
I went to Bayfair shopping complex in Tauranga with my Malaysian friends yesterday.I had McDonald's Chicken Tandoori and hot chocolate.Their hot chocolate even had marshmallows in it!It was superb!=)I am looking forward to a good month in Tauranga.
Sometimes it gets a lil lonely,I speak with Brit accent with the Brits,American accent with the Americans,and haywire English with the Japanese and Koreans.Malay and Tamil with the Malaysians,and Malaysian Chinese with the Chinese guy from Malaysia.Suddenly I feel like I know so many languages!LOL!But it's just English (hehe).
Once I get a good PC I will update some pictures I took in Papamoa and Bayfair.So check back often.I miss you all.

2006-09-30T22:02:00.000+12:00

I arrived in Te Puke,4 hours from Auckland,by bus.We left Auckland at 1.15pm and reached Te Puke bus stop at 6.20pm.The sceneries along the way was awesome!There were sheeps,cows,even ox,everywhere.The scenes were all like one of those you would normally see in a picture book.
I arrived at te Puke and the roads were deserted.Only 2 people were standing there and looking around.I approached them to ask for directions,only to be told that they are there to pick me up!Cool!I honestly don't think I would have been able to lug my big bag+my backpack anywhere else.I checked in and it was all OK.One of the guy who picked me up is actually a Malaysian from Penang and he's in New Zealand for about 2 years now.He oversees the security and operations in the accomodation.He's OK,along with his friend Bhoy from Philipines.Bhoy's family is in New Zealand,his wife works as a nurse at the Te Puke Old Folk's Home.
There's also an Indian Malaysian couple who thought I was in New Zealand to work and save money and return home.I told them I am on a working holiday visa and plan to travel the country.So I basically have someone to talk Malay here.LOL.We had a small BBQ the other night.It was really good.
I still can't adapt to the cold.It's summer and I am shivering!Some of my Korean and Japanese friends are complaining about the cold too.The Malaysian woman called me on a trip to Papamoa today.I went along to The Warehouse,something like our Giant and Tesco back home.There's a beautiful beach here,the Papaloa beach,and I couldn't see it today.I will be going sometime.
Work's really tiring!It's summer pruning and I check those trees and sometimes I have to stand on my toes coz the trees are high.It's 10 hours a day and 7 days a week.I am not gonna tire myself that way now,but there are other options around if I wanna switch jobs.I am considering my options as I will not be long here,I have limited time in a place before I plan my next destination!
Other than a few mishaps,I am doing well.My only problem here is the cold.I usually sleep with my socks,2 blankets,sweater and my winter cap on.The other night,my winter cap fell off and the next morning I was blessed with flu and blocked nose.So much for being a "westerner" eh?(HSBC mates,you might know what I'm talking about.Hehe).
I can't upload pictures just yet,mainly because the Internet here is stupid,I can't upload or download anything.I will have to wait until I get my hands on some proper PC.Till then,be patient allrite?
Do keep the comments coming in.I miss you all loads!

2006-09-26T22:54:00.000+12:00

I went on a Auckland City Tour today,courtesy of Stray Travels.Bit about Stray:They operate buses with the hop on hop off style,means you can hop on,go until you see somewhere you wanna get off,maybe stay a few nights,tel the driver when you want to be picked up and bingo!you are picked up to your next stop.This backpacker special designed buses have a few packages which varies from a few hours island tours right up to 25days North and South Island tours.The passes are valid for 1 year so you can travel whenever you like.
We visited the Viaduct Basin,Mission Bay (Auckland's very own beach in the city),the active volcanic Mt Eden,Auckland Skytower(saw someone do the bungy) and Auckland Harbour.The tour giude was cruisey and easy going,he asked all of us to call him Worm!Very funny and very charming and very good commentary.Met Natie from New York,we spoke about our travels,and she's heading down south to Wellington in the next couple of days to meet some friends.
Things in New Zealand is pretty much expensive,I forgot to bring my comb and had to pay $2 (about RM4.80)for the small comb we can get for 50sen back in Malaysia!Damn!And it's pretty cold here.Although its breezy and chilly it tends to get very cold at night.I couldn't sleep on my first night in Auckland!At one point I felt like changing my flight ticket to the next day to fly back home!
I am travelling to Te Puke tomorrow after checking out from YHA.Marrean told me it's about 4 hours away.I am gonna be so tired tomorrow!
To all of you who have tagged my board,thanks so much,please do keep me going.Za,I miss you loads and you know that.And I am very sure you are gonna achieve your dreams soon.You are in my prayers always,beautiful =)
I met Marrean today.She bought me dinner and I bought her coffee.We hit it right from the start.She's studying in Auckland University of Technology and working part time at the New Zealand National Blood Bank.Very sweet and charming woman.
I have uploaded some pictures which I managed to take.Please do comment and have a good time viewing it!
I miss you all

2006-09-25T13:50:00.000+12:00

I am in New Zealand!
Updates:Weather is about 17 degrees,its cold but sunny and windy and chilly..I arrived at 0930 (local time)at Auckland International Airport via Bangkok.Got stopped at the Customs and Immigration while I was declaring my visa.Now I believe the website when it said " Satisfy us the main reason you are coming to New Zealand is for holiday,not work,"judging on the questions the officer asked me.And thank God I did some reseach on the places I am going,coz he was asking me where am I gonna be going for vacation.They even asked me if I have any contacts in New Zealand!Without thinking,I said yeah and the next thing,they wanted her phone number.I gave Marrean's number,my online buddy from Malaysia who's in New Zealand.Heck,I've never even met her!LOL..
Well,visa sorted out,declared all those Maggis and coffees and the 3-in-1 Oats and Nestums and I was allowed out.Since no one was there to receive me,I found my way to the Airbus stop,got in,paid $15 (about RM36)for a 30 minutes ride to YHA Auckland City where I am booked for 2 nights.Apparently thats the cheapest way to get there,the taxis charge around $65,and other buses..well..no idea.hehe.
I checked into my room (4 bed dorm),went to a shop and got a IDD calling card,called mom to tell her I'm fine and I have reached.She seemed relieved,but I guess she was busy so I hung up.I took a shower,and while walking to find a shop to get a prepaid local SIM card,I decided to stop and update my blog.
If everything goes well,and I have time to spare,I will be taking the bus to downtown the volcanic Mt Eden,apparently there is a 360 degrees view on something,I will let you guys know once I have seen it..hehe.
The flight from Bangkok was boring,I met a Omani guy who was holidaying in Malaysia and was going back to Oman via Bangkok,and our flights were leaving at the same time (5.30pm Bangkok time) and we both are transitting in Bangkok.He was nice though,he got me coffee and we both we just sitting and talking about Malaysia and Oman and New Zealand and Bangkok until the boarding time.
I will be uploading the pictures soon,not much yet,just some pictures I took from the plane,the view of New Zealand from the plane was AWESOME.The trip from the airport to YHA Auckland City was superb too.At one point I saw cattles grazing in the middle of nowhere,along the road there was a big beautiful lake and a yatch was sailing,and typical English houses with chimneys and all.
I will update the blog from time to time,so be sure to read and tag my board,don't be shy to say you miss me =).I miss everyone so much.
Will update soon!

2006-08-20T17:41:00.000+12:00

There is inside me

All of the potential

To be whatever I want to be,

All of the energy

To do whatever I want to do.
I'd magine myself as I would like to be,

Doing what I want to do,

And each day,

Take one step

Towards my dream.
And though at times it may seem too difficult to continue,

I'd hold on to my dream.
One morning I will awake to find

That I am the person I dreamed of,

Doing what I want to do,

Simply because I had the courage

To believe in my potential

And to hold on to my dream

Give me the strengths from within

And let my journey now begin.

Adapted and edited from author Donna Levine