Once we left the ship, we were greeted by Tim, our driver and guide for the day. Tim picked us up is the wonderful Mercedes multi-passenger van (which Kiki is determined to have one despite the fact they are not available in the US and we know many dog show people who would just adore this van!). Mercedes probably doesn't know there would be quite the market in the US for that van!
Our driver dropped us off at the Hyatt in Auckland - we were upgraded to a 3 bedroom, two story apartment. I suppose the Hyatt realized that we were the Divas and adjusted accordingly. The massive amount of Diva luggage stayed at the Hyatt while our driver took us on a tour of Auckland.
Most impressive (after the Starbucks stop) was a trip to Mt. Eden - a dormant volcano where you can stand at the top and have magnificent views of Auckland. You can look down to the bottom of the volcano.
Later was shopping in a wonderful area (the name I cannot remember) and had lunch at a great cafe/pub. I will say, the Divas know how to eat and how to shop!
Divas Donna and Barbara were taken to the airport late afternoon and left Auckland on Air New Zealand - headed to San Francisco. I will say, flying Air New Zealand is a real treat! What down to earth and humorous flight attendants. Having the luxury of a seat that converts to a six foot bed truly makes a 13 hour flight tolerable. The dinner and breakfast were quite tasty.
Divas Kiki and Joyce - remained in Auckland for more retail therapy and they left Auckland later that evening headed to Los Angeles.
All 4 divas arrived safely in the US, taking with them their memories to last a lifetime of Australia and New Zealand. Everyday our weather was close to perfect, we met a lot of wonderful people -- other than our weight gain -- it was the most amazing trip.
The 4 divas now will soon be at their own respective homes, continuing as the 4 divas, yet in their own respective states (Kentucky, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Florida).
Good luck to Kiki and Joyce - in Long Beach to watch Scout's anticipated success. How lucky they are to have such an outstanding dog. Go Scoutie! The Divas are all cheering you on!
Thanks to all of our family and friends for supporting us and following along with us on our journey. It has been great to be able to share our trip with you daily. In a few days, I hope to post a couple of videos from the trip as well -- they need some editing, so will be done as soon as I can.
Photos from Auckland today:
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| Leaving the SS Navigator behind... |
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| View from the balcony at the Hyatt |
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| Massive Diva luggage |
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| View from top of Mt Eden (dormant volcano) |
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| Looking down toward the center of the volcano |
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| Such great views of Auckland |
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| Happy to report that the Divas decided to go shopping instead of violating the rules and going down the crater. |
