Hello North Island

Our welcome to North Island started with a bang. The ferry slid easily into its berth after a 3 hour, beautiful yet uneventful crossing. Because we were essentially foot passengers we were almost the last to leave. Rianna and Michelle had been waiting anxiously for us at the terminal and as you might expect it was an extremely emotional greeting. Ian and Michelle stood patiently to one side as mother and daughter clung to each other in a joyful yet tearful embrace.
While waiting for our bags, Ian went to find our hire car. It was to be conveniently delivered to the ferry terminal only it wasn't. Although it was fully paid, the company had no  knowledge of it. Fortunately Ian had printed out the paperwork and confirmation so there could be no dispute. Rianna and Michelle took us to the hire car office and we were all soon on our way.
On checking into our hotel, we discovered that Rianna and Michelle had been there earlier. A lovely bunch of flowers (for me) and a large bar of dark chocolate for Ian had been put on the table alongside a welcoming note. In addition, coffee mugs had been set out with exactly the right amount of sugar sachets for each of us. Lovely thoughts.

Sunday 17th March.  
Rianna and Michelle invited us for breakfast - not too early I might add. The weather was closing in while we drank out coffee but we wouldn't let that deter us. Braving the driving rain, we went to the market where we bought fruit and veg but we soon had to admit defeat.
Michelle's parents expressed a desire to meet us so afternoon tea at a convivial coffee shop was the order of the day.
Later in the evening Michelle cooked dinner (with input from Ian, Rianna and I) and a lovely evening was had by all. Later, we talked to James and Phoebe on Skype which was a perfect end to a lovely day.