Back in our first camp site in Auckland we celebrated initially with our first ice-cream of the trip (and from a corner shop – do they not have street vendors in the North Island?) and then with an al-fresco Chinese carry-out that cost about the same as one might in the UK, but was of about twice the quantity. A pair of ducks sauntered hopefully by, but we declined their offer to finish it off.

Overnight we left the van to its own devices, and hopefully to recharge its battery in its own time. In the morning it responded by starting first time, albeit a little hesitantly, so we took it for a run around a fairly large block to encourage further improvement. Not wishing either to push or luck too far, or to incur what would certainly substantial city-centre parking fees, we took the bus into Auckland centre. Auckland is a well spread-out city and it took some time to get there, but eventually we arrived at Albert Park on the edge of downtown Auckland. After a saunter through the trees and flower beds we headed for some serious souvenir shopping, finishing up at the harbour. Eric opted for a cruise whilst I continued around the city, obtaining valuable contraband in the form of a photo of trains in the oddly-named Britomart Transport Centre, and a genuine copy of New Zealand Railfan magazine.

By mid-afternoon we were shopped out, and took another bus to the welcoming sanctuary of the Brookbanks' residence, or the Trout and Camel as it is more correctly known, and spent another relaxing evening in good company. Mindful that our host had an early start next day for a cycle race, we finally took our leave, although if we had known his alarm clock was set for reveille at 0430 hours we might have left a little earlier, particularly as he was giving us a lift back.