Cookie says...
Finally, Cardrona! It looked closed in from the bottom of the hill but once we arrived, it was basically a blue bird day.
Pilty vegged out till the half day pass kicked in and Mikey hung around the main drag while I checked out Captain's. I decided that Whitestar was the way to go and pumped out some very quick runs. It was fairly busy and there was a comp on which didn't help.
I joined the other two for their final runs and was nearly taken out buy some rouge skier and definitely taken out by Pilt.
I checked out the shop on the way out as Julie had asked me to get some new shirts however I haven't bought any this year as the colours are vomit inducing and styles that went out with the 80's. There's definitely something there for the Gen Y's at Bridgy to pick up.
Once home Pilty rang to book a table up at Skyline. We've discovered that he doesn't handle analogue devices very well as he dropped the landline which killed the call and he forgot his mobile number. Either that or he was intimidated by a chick wanting his number.
We arrived for dinner and at first the staff gave me a dirty look until they realised that Pete Humphreys wasn't with me and waved us through (Pete once had eaten them out of house and home). It was a good feed culminating with Mikey and I giving Pilty dating advice. Now he has no chance with the ladies.
Time to pack and sleep before heading home tomorrow.
Mikey says...
A bit tired today because I spent most of last night and the early morning watching the national geographic channel. At least I now know how to make the new Mercedes truck, a Rolls Royce Phantom, a 20,000 tonne ice-breaker cargo ship, and how to remove a 45 tonne broken keel. Knowledge I'm sure will come in very handy soon.
Stomach was still a little funny today so took it nice and easy on the slopes at Cardrona. Heaps of fun just going up and down and up and down and... well you get the idea.
Dinner was at the Skyline restaurant. Pilty and I had heaps of fun saying things to annoy Cookie. He's just too easy to annoy.
Decided to power walk part of the way home. For some reason the others did walk with me. Probably just couldn't keep up with my lightening pace.
Made it home to finish the last levels of Plants v Zombie's. Oh yeah, the hours I spent playing that game have paid off for sure. If zombies do ever threaten your town, just call me up and I can give you advice on the best plants to take out the brain eaters.
Pilty says...
I still wasn't feeling great so I had a half-a as I still wanted to try something different. Once the low cloud cover started to disappear, the place looked glorious - so large and open. I did three different types of runs; the magic carpet and two other greens.
At night, I overindulged in both great tasting food and possibly useful information.
Showing posts with label Queenstown. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Queenstown. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Day 8 - NZ
Cookie says...
Whilst we weren't game to head to Cardrona today, we weren't too keen to be stuck in the unit again after yesterdays effort so we headed out and about. First stop was to get some brunch from Fergbaker and on to some Frisbee golf. We were all equally ordinary at it, especially when the disks aren't the same disks you use when playing ultimate disk, so the end result was pretty close.
After a bit of a break back at the base, we headed back out for a spot of mini golf. Mikey had been itching to visit this place ever since Luke had raved about it so it was time to see what the fuss is all about.
It was certainly one of the most detailed of courses but it wasn't suited to my putting skillz. I might have lost but I prefer to think that I got better value for my money.
For dinner it was Fergburger and it was busy as usual.
Mikey says...
Today was golf day. Frisbee Golf and then Mini Golf. I was pretty much amazing at both but held myself back to make the others fell not so... loserish.
I looove my super-slow-mo.
Dinner for me was a roast pork belly burger. Delish!!! Hopefully tomorrow we're all off to Cardrona and not just off.
Also hoping that we make it through the rest of the trip too as the food poisoning has given Cookie gas that is almost levitating him from the ground. Luckily none of us smoke or our doom would be almost certain.
Pilty says...
I still wasn't feeling the best, so wasn't going to be hitting the slopes today anyway. Was nice of the other guys to hang out with me instead (even if it was just to cover their softness). The day did however get better (unlike my stomach) with a couple of different versions of golf (which in itself I find very boring).
I had also been wanting to visit the indoor mini golf after doing some pre-trip research. I had also heard rumors that there was a second mini golf course on the other side of the road but it didn't look as good (perhaps next time?).
Fergburger food is sooo tasty! I choose a larger burger just to make up for the lack of eating yesterday. No wonder it is such a popular place.
Whilst we weren't game to head to Cardrona today, we weren't too keen to be stuck in the unit again after yesterdays effort so we headed out and about. First stop was to get some brunch from Fergbaker and on to some Frisbee golf. We were all equally ordinary at it, especially when the disks aren't the same disks you use when playing ultimate disk, so the end result was pretty close.
After a bit of a break back at the base, we headed back out for a spot of mini golf. Mikey had been itching to visit this place ever since Luke had raved about it so it was time to see what the fuss is all about.
It was certainly one of the most detailed of courses but it wasn't suited to my putting skillz. I might have lost but I prefer to think that I got better value for my money.
For dinner it was Fergburger and it was busy as usual.
Mikey says...
Today was golf day. Frisbee Golf and then Mini Golf. I was pretty much amazing at both but held myself back to make the others fell not so... loserish.
I looove my super-slow-mo.
Dinner for me was a roast pork belly burger. Delish!!! Hopefully tomorrow we're all off to Cardrona and not just off.
Also hoping that we make it through the rest of the trip too as the food poisoning has given Cookie gas that is almost levitating him from the ground. Luckily none of us smoke or our doom would be almost certain.
Pilty says...
I still wasn't feeling the best, so wasn't going to be hitting the slopes today anyway. Was nice of the other guys to hang out with me instead (even if it was just to cover their softness). The day did however get better (unlike my stomach) with a couple of different versions of golf (which in itself I find very boring).
I had also been wanting to visit the indoor mini golf after doing some pre-trip research. I had also heard rumors that there was a second mini golf course on the other side of the road but it didn't look as good (perhaps next time?).
Fergburger food is sooo tasty! I choose a larger burger just to make up for the lack of eating yesterday. No wonder it is such a popular place.
Monday, August 20, 2012
Day 7 - NZ
Cookie says...
Yesterday I wrote Cardrona awaits. Well, it's still waiting as we didn't make it. Sadly we have succumbed to food poisoning after last nights dinner so today was basically a write-off. Pilty was pretty crook half the night so didn't get any sleep. Around lunch I managed to sneak out for some bits and pieces but started feeling dodgy myself so headed back to the ranch. Dinner was pepper crackers and lemonade followed by a broken, sweaty sleep.
Mikey says...
Was hoping to do runs at Cardrona today but the only runs I made were to the toilet. Woke up still tasting last nights dinner and thought I'd be okay but then the guts started tumble turning. I didn't get it as bad as Pilty but it ruled me out for the day. Not even Ironguts Cookie made it through unscathed.
Overall, miserable day.
Pilty says...
Mikey was right. We must have been on a ship as we all got sea sickness.
Yesterday I wrote Cardrona awaits. Well, it's still waiting as we didn't make it. Sadly we have succumbed to food poisoning after last nights dinner so today was basically a write-off. Pilty was pretty crook half the night so didn't get any sleep. Around lunch I managed to sneak out for some bits and pieces but started feeling dodgy myself so headed back to the ranch. Dinner was pepper crackers and lemonade followed by a broken, sweaty sleep.
Mikey says...
Was hoping to do runs at Cardrona today but the only runs I made were to the toilet. Woke up still tasting last nights dinner and thought I'd be okay but then the guts started tumble turning. I didn't get it as bad as Pilty but it ruled me out for the day. Not even Ironguts Cookie made it through unscathed.
Overall, miserable day.
Pilty says...
Mikey was right. We must have been on a ship as we all got sea sickness.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Day 6 - NZ
Cookie says...
After a day off, it was good to get back on the snow. We headed back to Remarks today although it was an overcast day which meant flat light making it tricky to see the detail on the snow. Around lunch time a window of an hour opened where the sun broke through to allow some quick runs. Mikey had fun having a crack at some of the park boxes while Pilty loitered around the green runs.
Once home and showered, Pilty pretended to be domesticated and put on a load of washing before heading for dinner. Went to a seafood and steak joint for dinner. It never ceases to amaze me how odd Mikey can be. We sat down and after a while he started making the table creak and move the drinks and candle around. Very peculiar man.
Tomorrow Cardrona awaits!
Mikey says...
Back to the Remarkables today. It was pretty cloudy but not a bad day. I tried to do some of the fun boxes on the slopes and they went great until the end bit where you have to get off with out stacking it. Couldn't really get that bit down pat.
Mikey showing off his skillz.
Dinner at HMS Britannia tonight. It was all we could manage as I was dressed as a chav and it was the only place that accepted chavs. Apparently it's not a restaurant but a real ship!!! The wooden table even creaked in the waves and the candle and glasses slid from side to side with the roll of the ship. Simply amazing!
Pilty says...
I managed 1785 vert metres today. No idea what that really means, but I went up and down a mountain 17 times. I also felt brave enough to try out the tunnel which was a step up for me. There is photo evidence of this occurrence and as far as I'm concerned, means I'm better than Cookie as there is no evidence he has achieved such a feat.
After a day off, it was good to get back on the snow. We headed back to Remarks today although it was an overcast day which meant flat light making it tricky to see the detail on the snow. Around lunch time a window of an hour opened where the sun broke through to allow some quick runs. Mikey had fun having a crack at some of the park boxes while Pilty loitered around the green runs.
Once home and showered, Pilty pretended to be domesticated and put on a load of washing before heading for dinner. Went to a seafood and steak joint for dinner. It never ceases to amaze me how odd Mikey can be. We sat down and after a while he started making the table creak and move the drinks and candle around. Very peculiar man.
Tomorrow Cardrona awaits!
Mikey says...
Back to the Remarkables today. It was pretty cloudy but not a bad day. I tried to do some of the fun boxes on the slopes and they went great until the end bit where you have to get off with out stacking it. Couldn't really get that bit down pat.
Mikey showing off his skillz.
Dinner at HMS Britannia tonight. It was all we could manage as I was dressed as a chav and it was the only place that accepted chavs. Apparently it's not a restaurant but a real ship!!! The wooden table even creaked in the waves and the candle and glasses slid from side to side with the roll of the ship. Simply amazing!
Pilty says...
I managed 1785 vert metres today. No idea what that really means, but I went up and down a mountain 17 times. I also felt brave enough to try out the tunnel which was a step up for me. There is photo evidence of this occurrence and as far as I'm concerned, means I'm better than Cookie as there is no evidence he has achieved such a feat.
Saturday, August 18, 2012
Day 5 - NZ
Cookie says...
Another blue bird this morning but unfortunately we're not heading up the hill. On these trips it's usually a team effort and doing it my way but this time the majority ruled so we went for a drive instead. First stop was Arrowtown for the Chinese settlement, a stroll up the street and pies for morning tea.
Previously I had been recommended a venison pie after I'd finished a steak and mushroom but this trip I made up for it and I have to say it was probably the yummiest pie I have ever had.
Next stop was the Kawarau Bridge to watch some bungee jumping however the only other tourists there were a bunch of Asian's and as expected, they took a stack of photos even though no one was jumping. As with the last trip we headed for Puzzling World on the edge of Wanaka. This time I managed to get to the green tower which we'd missed last time but we were still beaten by a Rodda.
The return home was via the Crown Range with a stop at the Cardrona Hotel for lunch. We had burgers which were okay but don't have anything on what Fergburger creates. I ducked into town for some supplies after getting home and it was soup for dinner followed by watching the Bledisloe Cup match between us and the Kiwi's.
Mikey says...
Day off today. Pilty and I could tell Cookie wanted a day off but just couldn't bring himself to say it so we took one for the team to help him out. Went to Arrowtown and had a lamb and mint pie... well I had almost all of a lamb and mint pie. Cookie took a... Cookie size bite out of it before I realised that the pie I was holding had a V on it for venison and his had an L on it for Lamb. Mental note will have to watch my food from now on to make sure Cookie isn't turning into the Cookie monster and start eating everything on site.
Then on to Puzzling World. I finished the maze first even though Pilty and Cookie didn't realised that it was a competition. Mim will be proud as I just kept turning left, then left, then left again, and again, and again, and then left, and then... ALL OF A SUDDEN... I turned left. Oh yeah it takes brains to do this sort of stuff.
All blacks match tonight. Come on All Blacks!
Pilty says...
For some reason I have a really sore neck, so Cookies suggestion of going for a drive was quite convenient. I had been starting to wonder why they called this country the land of the sheep; I now have had my doubts alleviated. Puzzling World was quite fun and I think I won the maze challenge because I found the towers in the correct order. Union tonight; I still don't understand the interest in such a boring, stop/start game, no wonder Cookie hit the sack before it finished...
Another blue bird this morning but unfortunately we're not heading up the hill. On these trips it's usually a team effort and doing it my way but this time the majority ruled so we went for a drive instead. First stop was Arrowtown for the Chinese settlement, a stroll up the street and pies for morning tea.
Previously I had been recommended a venison pie after I'd finished a steak and mushroom but this trip I made up for it and I have to say it was probably the yummiest pie I have ever had.
Next stop was the Kawarau Bridge to watch some bungee jumping however the only other tourists there were a bunch of Asian's and as expected, they took a stack of photos even though no one was jumping. As with the last trip we headed for Puzzling World on the edge of Wanaka. This time I managed to get to the green tower which we'd missed last time but we were still beaten by a Rodda.
The return home was via the Crown Range with a stop at the Cardrona Hotel for lunch. We had burgers which were okay but don't have anything on what Fergburger creates. I ducked into town for some supplies after getting home and it was soup for dinner followed by watching the Bledisloe Cup match between us and the Kiwi's.
Mikey says...
Day off today. Pilty and I could tell Cookie wanted a day off but just couldn't bring himself to say it so we took one for the team to help him out. Went to Arrowtown and had a lamb and mint pie... well I had almost all of a lamb and mint pie. Cookie took a... Cookie size bite out of it before I realised that the pie I was holding had a V on it for venison and his had an L on it for Lamb. Mental note will have to watch my food from now on to make sure Cookie isn't turning into the Cookie monster and start eating everything on site.
Then on to Puzzling World. I finished the maze first even though Pilty and Cookie didn't realised that it was a competition. Mim will be proud as I just kept turning left, then left, then left again, and again, and again, and then left, and then... ALL OF A SUDDEN... I turned left. Oh yeah it takes brains to do this sort of stuff.
All blacks match tonight. Come on All Blacks!
Pilty says...
For some reason I have a really sore neck, so Cookies suggestion of going for a drive was quite convenient. I had been starting to wonder why they called this country the land of the sheep; I now have had my doubts alleviated. Puzzling World was quite fun and I think I won the maze challenge because I found the towers in the correct order. Union tonight; I still don't understand the interest in such a boring, stop/start game, no wonder Cookie hit the sack before it finished...
Friday, August 17, 2012
Day 4 - NZ
Cookie says...
Off to a slow start but we made it up to the Remarks. It was good to make it back here as I really enjoy some of the runs that hang off the Sugarbowl lift. I spent the first few hours here before checking up on the others and then heading over to the Shadow Bowl chair.
I haven't spent much time over this side of the ski field. The only time I'd been here was on a closed in, windy and cold day and one run was enough for me however today was a blue bird and I could go quick, very quick.
One of the neat things that the electronic ticketing allows is tracking stats. Apparently I did almost twice the amount of vertical today as my first day with about the same number of runs. We continued the tradition of seeing cars in ditchesbut we didn't get a photo of it : (.
Back at the ranch we cracked out Settlers which Mikey closely won and then knocked up some bangers and mash. After some footy and readying, it was time to study the back of my eyelids.
Mikey says...
Up to the Remarks today and it was heaps of fun. I helped Pilty out a little bit on the beginner slope and then went off to the green runs. After lunch Pilty and I went up the chair lift and he did pretty well on his first run down. After that I left Pilty to practice and then tried to get as many runs in as possible before closing time. Have to beat Cookie with my stats! Shoulder feels okay as long at I don't put any pressure on it... which means it's okay to board. Woohoo!
Pilty says...
After almost drowning in a pool of my own sweat halfway through the night due to trying out a new discovery called the electric blanket (it was on the lowest setting!), I headed out with the guys to a place named after me - The Remarkables. I started on the easy slopes to renew my confidence and later on, guided by Mikey, did a few runs on a green slope. Won't be long until we put Cookie to shame. I only had one major stack; which Mikey managed to witness (I still maintain I did it just for his entertainment).
Off to a slow start but we made it up to the Remarks. It was good to make it back here as I really enjoy some of the runs that hang off the Sugarbowl lift. I spent the first few hours here before checking up on the others and then heading over to the Shadow Bowl chair.
I haven't spent much time over this side of the ski field. The only time I'd been here was on a closed in, windy and cold day and one run was enough for me however today was a blue bird and I could go quick, very quick.
One of the neat things that the electronic ticketing allows is tracking stats. Apparently I did almost twice the amount of vertical today as my first day with about the same number of runs. We continued the tradition of seeing cars in ditchesbut we didn't get a photo of it : (.
Back at the ranch we cracked out Settlers which Mikey closely won and then knocked up some bangers and mash. After some footy and readying, it was time to study the back of my eyelids.
Mikey says...
Up to the Remarks today and it was heaps of fun. I helped Pilty out a little bit on the beginner slope and then went off to the green runs. After lunch Pilty and I went up the chair lift and he did pretty well on his first run down. After that I left Pilty to practice and then tried to get as many runs in as possible before closing time. Have to beat Cookie with my stats! Shoulder feels okay as long at I don't put any pressure on it... which means it's okay to board. Woohoo!
Pilty says...
After almost drowning in a pool of my own sweat halfway through the night due to trying out a new discovery called the electric blanket (it was on the lowest setting!), I headed out with the guys to a place named after me - The Remarkables. I started on the easy slopes to renew my confidence and later on, guided by Mikey, did a few runs on a green slope. Won't be long until we put Cookie to shame. I only had one major stack; which Mikey managed to witness (I still maintain I did it just for his entertainment).
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Day 3 - NZ
Cookie says...
Today's start was good and bad. It was a blue bird day and my foot was still a hurtin so Mikey and Pilty headed up to Coronet and I nerded it up back at camp. I quickly rediscovered that TV here is pretty bad so I headed into town to look around for a few things and to give my foot some exercise.
After the others returned we headed out to beat the rush and ended up at Winnies. We overheard a comment from some other patrons who complained about a cool draft which was funny considering we were sitting outside.
Back to the unit for some more cards, hopeless TV and rest.
Mikey says...
Well Cookie couldn't make it today because he's getting old and decrepit so it was just me and Pilty. The runs looked a bit icy and it didn't take me long to find out how icy it was. I stacked it on my first run down and my shoulder took most of the impact. Shoulder is feeling quite tender at the moment and I'll find out in the morning if my body can shake it off or I'm going to have to be old and decrepit like Cookie and take a day off. Other than that had heaps of fun going up and down and up and down and ... well you get the idea.
Pilty says...
Cookie should drink a cup of cement. I decided to fight my lack of interest in snow and give snowboarding a crack. I took the beginner package with 2 lessons and afterwards the first instructor was keen to let me go on to some advanced stuff. Sure I was finding it easy, but now I know why the other guys board instead of ski. I may however be starting to understand the soreness that comes with old age.
Today's start was good and bad. It was a blue bird day and my foot was still a hurtin so Mikey and Pilty headed up to Coronet and I nerded it up back at camp. I quickly rediscovered that TV here is pretty bad so I headed into town to look around for a few things and to give my foot some exercise.
After the others returned we headed out to beat the rush and ended up at Winnies. We overheard a comment from some other patrons who complained about a cool draft which was funny considering we were sitting outside.
Back to the unit for some more cards, hopeless TV and rest.
Mikey says...
Well Cookie couldn't make it today because he's getting old and decrepit so it was just me and Pilty. The runs looked a bit icy and it didn't take me long to find out how icy it was. I stacked it on my first run down and my shoulder took most of the impact. Shoulder is feeling quite tender at the moment and I'll find out in the morning if my body can shake it off or I'm going to have to be old and decrepit like Cookie and take a day off. Other than that had heaps of fun going up and down and up and down and ... well you get the idea.
Pilty says...
Cookie should drink a cup of cement. I decided to fight my lack of interest in snow and give snowboarding a crack. I took the beginner package with 2 lessons and afterwards the first instructor was keen to let me go on to some advanced stuff. Sure I was finding it easy, but now I know why the other guys board instead of ski. I may however be starting to understand the soreness that comes with old age.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Day 2 - NZ
Cookie says...
Mikey and I headed up Coronet today while Pilty decided to hold the sofa down. If there's one thing that's been easy to notice with Kiwi ski fields, it's there's always something upgraded or new every few years. This time NZSki have caught up to Europe fields and have upgraded their life tickets to smart cards.
For the most part we hung around the green slope while Mikey got used to boarding again. He made some good progress although we did make one mistake and ended up on a T-Bar. Stumps were pulled up a little short of full time but as I had one sore foot, I didn't mind.
We think Pilty had changed seats and may even have ventured out. Mikey knocked up dinner and we cracked out some cards. I just hope my foot isn't as sore tomorrow so I can get out as it should be a blue bird day.
Mikey says...
First day on the snow was great. A few stacks but other than that it was fun to get back on the board again.
At first I liked the fog that was rolling in... until I tried going down a run with the fog set in. Not good. Couldn't see much. Oh and I completely took out a skier (when the weather was clear so I can't blame it on the fog). He was stationary and I didn't stop in time, thankfully the only thing that was hurt was my ego.
Pilty says...
I happen to enjoy walking around each new town on the first day I visit, thus I decided snow was not on the agenda for me today. I walked through the whole city and took it all in. Cookie will be proud of me for not consuming any of the fast food available (yet).
Mikey and I headed up Coronet today while Pilty decided to hold the sofa down. If there's one thing that's been easy to notice with Kiwi ski fields, it's there's always something upgraded or new every few years. This time NZSki have caught up to Europe fields and have upgraded their life tickets to smart cards.
For the most part we hung around the green slope while Mikey got used to boarding again. He made some good progress although we did make one mistake and ended up on a T-Bar. Stumps were pulled up a little short of full time but as I had one sore foot, I didn't mind.
We think Pilty had changed seats and may even have ventured out. Mikey knocked up dinner and we cracked out some cards. I just hope my foot isn't as sore tomorrow so I can get out as it should be a blue bird day.
Mikey says...
First day on the snow was great. A few stacks but other than that it was fun to get back on the board again.
At first I liked the fog that was rolling in... until I tried going down a run with the fog set in. Not good. Couldn't see much. Oh and I completely took out a skier (when the weather was clear so I can't blame it on the fog). He was stationary and I didn't stop in time, thankfully the only thing that was hurt was my ego.
Pilty says...
I happen to enjoy walking around each new town on the first day I visit, thus I decided snow was not on the agenda for me today. I walked through the whole city and took it all in. Cookie will be proud of me for not consuming any of the fast food available (yet).
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Day 1 - NZ
Cookie says...
Another trip and another travel day to kick it off. You quickly get sick of the early start and the commute but it's a necessary evil. We hoped out to BNE, skipped to AKL and jumped to ZQN. We've come full circle. Five years ago Mikey and I came here and this blog was born. Now we're back and dragged Pilty with us.
After checking in we strolled around town to give Pilty a idea of what Queenstown is like. For dinner we ended up at Flames which is a South African steak and ribs joint that Kylie, Morgan, Pitt and I tried back in 2009.
After a good feed, picking up Mikey's board and some Greed, it was time to rest up for our first day.
Mikey says...
Woo hoo... back to NZ for some boarding. Really going to be great. The place we're staying has two room, one with 2 beds and one with a double. Cookie got the double because he snores. I heard him during the night and honestly I'm sure Julie must sleep with ear plugs in. Anyway looking forward to boarding...
Pilty says...
After getting up super early (no idea why people would choose to be up before the sun in winter. or any other time of the year for that matter), we headed to Brisbane's international airport to catch our flight New Zealand, the land of sheep... of which I'm yet to see any - disappointing! So far just seems like home. or at least a small coastal town at home.
We managed to score a table at the flames restaurant for some an awesome meal and Cookie looked good in a bib!
Another trip and another travel day to kick it off. You quickly get sick of the early start and the commute but it's a necessary evil. We hoped out to BNE, skipped to AKL and jumped to ZQN. We've come full circle. Five years ago Mikey and I came here and this blog was born. Now we're back and dragged Pilty with us.
After checking in we strolled around town to give Pilty a idea of what Queenstown is like. For dinner we ended up at Flames which is a South African steak and ribs joint that Kylie, Morgan, Pitt and I tried back in 2009.
After a good feed, picking up Mikey's board and some Greed, it was time to rest up for our first day.
Mikey says...
Woo hoo... back to NZ for some boarding. Really going to be great. The place we're staying has two room, one with 2 beds and one with a double. Cookie got the double because he snores. I heard him during the night and honestly I'm sure Julie must sleep with ear plugs in. Anyway looking forward to boarding...
Pilty says...
After getting up super early (no idea why people would choose to be up before the sun in winter. or any other time of the year for that matter), we headed to Brisbane's international airport to catch our flight New Zealand, the land of sheep... of which I'm yet to see any - disappointing! So far just seems like home. or at least a small coastal town at home.
We managed to score a table at the flames restaurant for some an awesome meal and Cookie looked good in a bib!
Friday, August 28, 2009
Day 12 - NZ
Cookie says...
Well, as they (who are 'they' anyway?) say; all good things come to an end. As with most trips, the last day is more a commuting process than anything. We woke, packed, checked out and headed to the airport where we had breakfast and waited for our flight.
Once onboard and in the air I couldn't help but try something. In the last few years there has been a question floating around the internet that has caused more forum closures, banned users and internet outages than the number of people who died from the black death in the middle ages. The origin is rumored to have been in an aeronautical engineering exam and is simply a question about whether a plan will take off or not. So I figured now was as good a time as any to send this question to the pilots as they are experts and surely have nothing better to do other than play cards and snooze whilst the autopilot does their dirty work.
Ten minutes later the air hostess returned with the question and said that the pilots agree that the plane would not take off. This was concerning as this was the wrong answer and I was on their plane. I think that the navigator was actually right but the pilot who figured that the navigator was wrong because it's his job to navigate the plane and not fly the plane so he pulled rank on him.
In reality, it's a trick question because the wheels and runway don't have any inpact on what the plane is doing because the engines push against the air to propel the plane forward and ultimately into the air once lift is generated at the wings.
I also discovered that while it nominally takes three hours to fly from Queenstown to Brisbane, it is also the amount of time it takes to educate 150 passengers on aviation theory and how I am right and the experts are not.
Back to the commuting and we landed, picked up our gear, headed to my place and then I dropped people hoome.
Well, as they (who are 'they' anyway?) say; all good things come to an end. As with most trips, the last day is more a commuting process than anything. We woke, packed, checked out and headed to the airport where we had breakfast and waited for our flight.
Once onboard and in the air I couldn't help but try something. In the last few years there has been a question floating around the internet that has caused more forum closures, banned users and internet outages than the number of people who died from the black death in the middle ages. The origin is rumored to have been in an aeronautical engineering exam and is simply a question about whether a plan will take off or not. So I figured now was as good a time as any to send this question to the pilots as they are experts and surely have nothing better to do other than play cards and snooze whilst the autopilot does their dirty work.
I think some 'turbulance' was really a cockpit disturbance
while the pilots 'discussed' this question
Ten minutes later the air hostess returned with the question and said that the pilots agree that the plane would not take off. This was concerning as this was the wrong answer and I was on their plane. I think that the navigator was actually right but the pilot who figured that the navigator was wrong because it's his job to navigate the plane and not fly the plane so he pulled rank on him.
In reality, it's a trick question because the wheels and runway don't have any inpact on what the plane is doing because the engines push against the air to propel the plane forward and ultimately into the air once lift is generated at the wings.
I also discovered that while it nominally takes three hours to fly from Queenstown to Brisbane, it is also the amount of time it takes to educate 150 passengers on aviation theory and how I am right and the experts are not.
Sadly Gurti's, friend's, partner didn't make it through customs
Back to the commuting and we landed, picked up our gear, headed to my place and then I dropped people hoome.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Day 11 - NZ
Quote of the Day
"Benny and I are now exclusive" - Morgan
Cookie says...
Last full day today. Before sleeping we decided it would be a full day on the hill. After falling asleep, we must have agreed that we'd sleep in. Didn't matter, it was typical of every other day and besides, we're on holidays. Popped into Macca's / Subway for breaky just like yesterday and then made tracks for Remarks.
It was on hold till 8 but it was open. It was raining in QT, sleeting around the 6km mark and snowing shortly after that. The report said chains for 2WD's at the 12km mark which was why I get AWD's so we were waved on through. There were a few cars passing us in the way down and made it to the second last turn before discovering why. For three years running now I have seen a car in the ditch... and we nearly joined them. At the corner we'd slowed to avoid the car and lost traction and started slipping... backwards... down the road... all good though. We were on snow. Could have been a different story if it had been ice!
After backing down the road slowly, one of the Remarkables guys came past and ended up towing us up to the carpark during which we watched another car sail past us into another ditch. It was puking snow and blowing everywhere which would have made it a positively crumby morning on the field. The carpark dude had a guy down to help us with the chains and we made our way back down the hill.
We made it back to the fort and Beno headed out to do a few things. We had some stuff to pick up, met up with Ben and headed to Winnies for a late lunch.
I hadn't done much time-lapse so I thought I'd give it a crack. Wasn't that great a location but that's okay, I stood out there freezing my bum of for a while before the others joined me. Once it was done we did a little souviner shopping and headed home to pack.
"Benny and I are now exclusive" - Morgan
Cookie says...
Last full day today. Before sleeping we decided it would be a full day on the hill. After falling asleep, we must have agreed that we'd sleep in. Didn't matter, it was typical of every other day and besides, we're on holidays. Popped into Macca's / Subway for breaky just like yesterday and then made tracks for Remarks.
It was on hold till 8 but it was open. It was raining in QT, sleeting around the 6km mark and snowing shortly after that. The report said chains for 2WD's at the 12km mark which was why I get AWD's so we were waved on through. There were a few cars passing us in the way down and made it to the second last turn before discovering why. For three years running now I have seen a car in the ditch... and we nearly joined them. At the corner we'd slowed to avoid the car and lost traction and started slipping... backwards... down the road... all good though. We were on snow. Could have been a different story if it had been ice!
This makes it a hatrick of car-in-a-ditch photos!
After backing down the road slowly, one of the Remarkables guys came past and ended up towing us up to the carpark during which we watched another car sail past us into another ditch. It was puking snow and blowing everywhere which would have made it a positively crumby morning on the field. The carpark dude had a guy down to help us with the chains and we made our way back down the hill.
Beno and Morgs texting God for help
We made it back to the fort and Beno headed out to do a few things. We had some stuff to pick up, met up with Ben and headed to Winnies for a late lunch.
Morgs and Ben sharing a quiet moment...
blisfully unaware that we were sharing the table with them
I hadn't done much time-lapse so I thought I'd give it a crack. Wasn't that great a location but that's okay, I stood out there freezing my bum of for a while before the others joined me. Once it was done we did a little souviner shopping and headed home to pack.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Day 10 - NZ
Cookie says...
First things first. It's Morgan's birthday today so to make sure he didn't feel left out (and knowing he loves making a big deal of his birthday), Gurti had acquired some party hats and some party poppers and he woke to the tune of the three of us serenading him with Happy Birthday.
Finally made it to Cardrona today although it wouldn't have been our first choice. Remarks was closed and we'd been to Coronet enough already so we went with Cardies. When we arrived we were nearly blown off the hill it was soo windy. Gale force winds smashed us for a few hours, no wonder heli operations were on hold. I checked out Captains Basin to see if it was protected from the wind but that was a big negative. Nowhere was safe. It was so windy that the resort was offering half day prices from the start of the day.
The wind didn't stop the pipe finals for the Winter Games. We stopped doing out thang to watch the best of the best do their thang. No surprise that Shaun White took out the mens but there were some awesome displays of spins and air time. Managed to snap a few good pics and video. I was inspired and tried my hand at the pipe. I officially suck. Had a bit of fun though.
We watched the presentation at the end and we almost got a photo of Shaun White with our crew. I say almost because while we deliberated about whether we should or shouldn't ask him, everyone else had asked and got the photo they wanted and by the time we decided what we were going to do, he had been ushered off elsewhere. Such a decisive bunch we are!
A few days ago we got talking to some bird on a chairlift. Turned out she worked at a restaurant in town called Flame so we decided we'd check it out. Another big feed and another big bill. Going to have to address both those outcomes when we return.
Good dinner and afterwards we turned into geeks and went to the interweb joint. Not as geeky as some though. We were kicked off to use other machines so some nerds could play games together. Nerds are so funny, they start gaming in a public internet place and seem to forget that others are around and carry on like... well... nerds. Must be their lack of social skills / etiquette which have been replace with the knowledge of what spells to use on what enemy or what abilities they should give their character.
First things first. It's Morgan's birthday today so to make sure he didn't feel left out (and knowing he loves making a big deal of his birthday), Gurti had acquired some party hats and some party poppers and he woke to the tune of the three of us serenading him with Happy Birthday.
Wake up old man!
Finally made it to Cardrona today although it wouldn't have been our first choice. Remarks was closed and we'd been to Coronet enough already so we went with Cardies. When we arrived we were nearly blown off the hill it was soo windy. Gale force winds smashed us for a few hours, no wonder heli operations were on hold. I checked out Captains Basin to see if it was protected from the wind but that was a big negative. Nowhere was safe. It was so windy that the resort was offering half day prices from the start of the day.
A windy, windy Cardrona. The photo doesn't really convey the amount of wind
The wind didn't stop the pipe finals for the Winter Games. We stopped doing out thang to watch the best of the best do their thang. No surprise that Shaun White took out the mens but there were some awesome displays of spins and air time. Managed to snap a few good pics and video. I was inspired and tried my hand at the pipe. I officially suck. Had a bit of fun though.
This guy is a 'little' better than me
We watched the presentation at the end and we almost got a photo of Shaun White with our crew. I say almost because while we deliberated about whether we should or shouldn't ask him, everyone else had asked and got the photo they wanted and by the time we decided what we were going to do, he had been ushered off elsewhere. Such a decisive bunch we are!
Shawn White: Snowboard Legend
A few days ago we got talking to some bird on a chairlift. Turned out she worked at a restaurant in town called Flame so we decided we'd check it out. Another big feed and another big bill. Going to have to address both those outcomes when we return.
Gurti is a steak and rib eating machine...
actually us guys finished her plate off : )
Good dinner and afterwards we turned into geeks and went to the interweb joint. Not as geeky as some though. We were kicked off to use other machines so some nerds could play games together. Nerds are so funny, they start gaming in a public internet place and seem to forget that others are around and carry on like... well... nerds. Must be their lack of social skills / etiquette which have been replace with the knowledge of what spells to use on what enemy or what abilities they should give their character.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Day 9 - NZ
Cookie says...
I decided to have a rest day so that I wasn't worn out for heli tomorrow. Morgs and Beno however are keen on getting to Remarks. It was raining in town which was equating to snow up top. We drove them to the top and then started driving them down again. They'd packed their boards, snow gear and skirts. They wanted to pull the pin. So we started driving down again and all of a sudden I started feeling like a yo-yo because they changed their mind. Beno was whinging about the cold and snow but I told them they will enjoy themselves and we left them behind.
Gurti and I made tracks fo Arrowtown again. We had a bit of a walk around and had lunch at the bakery. Did some more walking and then headed back to our apartments.
Gurti slept on the couch for a few hours and I did some nerd stuff and a little random time-lapse. I got the call for the pickup and I asked them to bus it down the hill. I'd already driven up and down it once today but also, it sucks going against the traffic on that road. We met them at the base and took them home. Morg's then tells us how two chicks had noticed him on the bus. We thought cool, he might get on the tune but it turned out that one was medical chick from Coronet who looked after him when he hurt himself and the other was the chick from the hospital that wrote up that he shouldn't do anything active for 6 weeks and then start rehab.
After showering and stuff, we decided to sort out some shorts and hoodies we had talked about everyday since arriving. This time we actually finalised the design and lodged the order. They'll be right to pick up on the Thursday before we leave. While the guys were sorting out the details, I popped into see the heli dudes. Sadly, with the weather turning for the worse, they don't expect to be flying until after the weekend. GUTTED!!! As it was, the Monday was epic and I missed out on a seat because I didn't take a seat straight away on the Sunday but at that time, they felt there was a window for Wednesday. I was soo ticked off with myself. TWIT! Oh well, I'll make up for it next year somehow.
It was dinner time and we made our way to The Britannia. It was great. The inside of the building is decked (excuse the pun haha) out like you're on an English vessel. I ordered too much but being a Taurean, I stubbournly ate my way though my plates and went up a notch on my belt. Great food though.
Back to grand central where I wanted to drown my sorrows in ice cream and we called it a night.
I decided to have a rest day so that I wasn't worn out for heli tomorrow. Morgs and Beno however are keen on getting to Remarks. It was raining in town which was equating to snow up top. We drove them to the top and then started driving them down again. They'd packed their boards, snow gear and skirts. They wanted to pull the pin. So we started driving down again and all of a sudden I started feeling like a yo-yo because they changed their mind. Beno was whinging about the cold and snow but I told them they will enjoy themselves and we left them behind.
Gurti and I made tracks fo Arrowtown again. We had a bit of a walk around and had lunch at the bakery. Did some more walking and then headed back to our apartments.
Gurti with some light reading on the throne
Gurti slept on the couch for a few hours and I did some nerd stuff and a little random time-lapse. I got the call for the pickup and I asked them to bus it down the hill. I'd already driven up and down it once today but also, it sucks going against the traffic on that road. We met them at the base and took them home. Morg's then tells us how two chicks had noticed him on the bus. We thought cool, he might get on the tune but it turned out that one was medical chick from Coronet who looked after him when he hurt himself and the other was the chick from the hospital that wrote up that he shouldn't do anything active for 6 weeks and then start rehab.
After showering and stuff, we decided to sort out some shorts and hoodies we had talked about everyday since arriving. This time we actually finalised the design and lodged the order. They'll be right to pick up on the Thursday before we leave. While the guys were sorting out the details, I popped into see the heli dudes. Sadly, with the weather turning for the worse, they don't expect to be flying until after the weekend. GUTTED!!! As it was, the Monday was epic and I missed out on a seat because I didn't take a seat straight away on the Sunday but at that time, they felt there was a window for Wednesday. I was soo ticked off with myself. TWIT! Oh well, I'll make up for it next year somehow.
It was dinner time and we made our way to The Britannia. It was great. The inside of the building is decked (excuse the pun haha) out like you're on an English vessel. I ordered too much but being a Taurean, I stubbournly ate my way though my plates and went up a notch on my belt. Great food though.
Back to grand central where I wanted to drown my sorrows in ice cream and we called it a night.
How am I expected to drown my sorrows if
there's only one spoonful of ice cream left?
Monday, August 24, 2009
Day 8 - NZ
Cookie says...
Couldn't have asked for a nicer day for playing in the snow. Gurti decided to have a quiet one in so the boys went back up Remarks. Filled up at the Shell to find some guy had parked his car on the wrong side of the bowser. At some stage he had his foot on the car to help pull the hose closer to the car.
We arrived there 90 mins after first lift and we still managed to end up in the third line of cars in the second carpark. If we'd been on time we'd have had the hill to ourselves! We spent the day hanging around the Sugar Bowl lift doing a bunch of runs. Beno and Morgs had fun with the easier stuff while I enjoyed some quick ones.
I met up with them and had a crack at a jump a few times. I wanted to take it easy and five metres before the kicker on the first go 'What am I doing?' ran through my head.. I ended up getting more air than what I did after spending a day at the jumps last year.
We finished up with last lift, bailed and gave a hitcher a ride home. We found Gurti where we left her, in front of the TV. But she had been a busy body. Showers were in order and then we left for dinner.
The Cow was the destination and we were absolutely full afterwards.
Once again their bread didn't disappoint. We retreated to the batcave where we watched a 'quality' Segal movie before crashing for the night.
Couldn't have asked for a nicer day for playing in the snow. Gurti decided to have a quiet one in so the boys went back up Remarks. Filled up at the Shell to find some guy had parked his car on the wrong side of the bowser. At some stage he had his foot on the car to help pull the hose closer to the car.
I call this: The Stubborness of Man
We arrived there 90 mins after first lift and we still managed to end up in the third line of cars in the second carpark. If we'd been on time we'd have had the hill to ourselves! We spent the day hanging around the Sugar Bowl lift doing a bunch of runs. Beno and Morgs had fun with the easier stuff while I enjoyed some quick ones.
Morgs motoring along
Here's a man on a mission... or a snowboard at least
I met up with them and had a crack at a jump a few times. I wanted to take it easy and five metres before the kicker on the first go 'What am I doing?' ran through my head.. I ended up getting more air than what I did after spending a day at the jumps last year.
Had to change my snowpants after this leap
We finished up with last lift, bailed and gave a hitcher a ride home. We found Gurti where we left her, in front of the TV. But she had been a busy body. Showers were in order and then we left for dinner.
The Cow was the destination and we were absolutely full afterwards.
The bar is a busy part of The Cow
Once again their bread didn't disappoint. We retreated to the batcave where we watched a 'quality' Segal movie before crashing for the night.
The Cow's bread is the bomb!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Day 7 - NZ
Cookie says...
Another day off the slopes. Beno and Morgs were keen on trying the trout fishing. Originally they'd found some dude who was offering a full day for 800+ bucks who was also wondering why he wasn't getting many calls. They found someone else who'd do it for half that and went with him. Gurti and I weren't too interested so we headed out and around to Glenorchy instead.
It's a neat drive out there following the lakes edge. We passed three cyclists who seemed to be on their way Glenorchy. It's a sleepy town with one main street. When we arrived we popped down to the wharf (a jetty) for a few photos and then found somewhere to eat. Originally I had envisiged a pub lunch but we ended up in a cafe. They took their time to bring out Gurti's BLAT and my steak sandwich but it was worth it. Probably the best steak sandwhich (including a 250g bit of steak) I have ever had.
Beno called to say they were home from their fly fishing trip and we were on our way back. Passed the cyclists again who had arrived and I think were so hungry after their ride that they'd consumed one rider as there were two left. Once back at the camp, we were about to play some cards when we decided to ride the shotover jet. They had room so we suited up and made tracks... or wakes I guess. Beno and I had done it before but it was new Morgs and Gurti. As always, it's a good fun ride but I still think it's funny to pay someone to spray freezing water into your face and pretend to crash into the sharp rock walls at every second turn.
I spoke to Dave to get his thoughts on heli boarding and the current conditions. It was neat to hear while we're enjoying the snow, he's enjoying the surf up north. Dinner was Thai which was so-so, followed by the net and then bed time.
Gurti says...
Today was quite enjoyable and meant that I wasnt adding to the pile of bruises all over my body. As Cookie said we headed off on a road trip to Glenorchy and had a bit of a look around. I enjoyed taking a few shots cuz there hasnt been many other opportunities to take some decent photos.Maybe i'll have my chance when I move over here next year.. Our tummies started to grumble so we headed off to the main street for some lunch. After sussing a few places out we ended up at this little cafe. My thoughts whilst after ordering lead to "Hmmmm, if this food is crap its going to end my run of impressive New Zealand cuisine" but sure enough it was amazing and I left quite impressed with my fat BLAT. The drive to and from Glenorchy was gorgeous, a little like the road trip Mum and I took up in Cairns this time last year, but Id have to say this was a little more salubrious.
The shotover jet was great. I did expect it to be a little more heart pumping scary but that may have been because our driver had only been there for 3 years or so. My tail bone only gave me grief once during a 360, as it did earlier on in the day when I got Cookie to take a jumping pic of me...I didnt even get 5cms off the ground....hmmm..not looking good for work next week.
So after we got a little soaked we headed off to dinner..my favourite THAI FOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Although I wasnt really hungry after lunch it went down gradually. The boys got sick of me complaining about the snowboard id seem 30 mins earlier.....Cookie wouldnt let me get it, Beno wasnt too keen either but good old Morgs was on my side. But no, I still didnt get it :(
Another day off the slopes. Beno and Morgs were keen on trying the trout fishing. Originally they'd found some dude who was offering a full day for 800+ bucks who was also wondering why he wasn't getting many calls. They found someone else who'd do it for half that and went with him. Gurti and I weren't too interested so we headed out and around to Glenorchy instead.
It's a neat drive out there following the lakes edge. We passed three cyclists who seemed to be on their way Glenorchy. It's a sleepy town with one main street. When we arrived we popped down to the wharf (a jetty) for a few photos and then found somewhere to eat. Originally I had envisiged a pub lunch but we ended up in a cafe. They took their time to bring out Gurti's BLAT and my steak sandwich but it was worth it. Probably the best steak sandwhich (including a 250g bit of steak) I have ever had.
This is basically the town... it's huge!
Beno called to say they were home from their fly fishing trip and we were on our way back. Passed the cyclists again who had arrived and I think were so hungry after their ride that they'd consumed one rider as there were two left. Once back at the camp, we were about to play some cards when we decided to ride the shotover jet. They had room so we suited up and made tracks... or wakes I guess. Beno and I had done it before but it was new Morgs and Gurti. As always, it's a good fun ride but I still think it's funny to pay someone to spray freezing water into your face and pretend to crash into the sharp rock walls at every second turn.
Dan... it's a sign...
I spoke to Dave to get his thoughts on heli boarding and the current conditions. It was neat to hear while we're enjoying the snow, he's enjoying the surf up north. Dinner was Thai which was so-so, followed by the net and then bed time.
Gurti says...
Today was quite enjoyable and meant that I wasnt adding to the pile of bruises all over my body. As Cookie said we headed off on a road trip to Glenorchy and had a bit of a look around. I enjoyed taking a few shots cuz there hasnt been many other opportunities to take some decent photos.Maybe i'll have my chance when I move over here next year.. Our tummies started to grumble so we headed off to the main street for some lunch. After sussing a few places out we ended up at this little cafe. My thoughts whilst after ordering lead to "Hmmmm, if this food is crap its going to end my run of impressive New Zealand cuisine" but sure enough it was amazing and I left quite impressed with my fat BLAT. The drive to and from Glenorchy was gorgeous, a little like the road trip Mum and I took up in Cairns this time last year, but Id have to say this was a little more salubrious.
The shotover jet was great. I did expect it to be a little more heart pumping scary but that may have been because our driver had only been there for 3 years or so. My tail bone only gave me grief once during a 360, as it did earlier on in the day when I got Cookie to take a jumping pic of me...I didnt even get 5cms off the ground....hmmm..not looking good for work next week.
So after we got a little soaked we headed off to dinner..my favourite THAI FOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Although I wasnt really hungry after lunch it went down gradually. The boys got sick of me complaining about the snowboard id seem 30 mins earlier.....Cookie wouldnt let me get it, Beno wasnt too keen either but good old Morgs was on my side. But no, I still didnt get it :(
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Day 6 - NZ
Cookie says...
Late rise today. Morgan did his own thing (probably sleeping again) while the rest of us were half-day Harry's as we didn't make it onto the snow until after 12. Tried Remarks today for a change. The winter games had some events on there so the big jumps were busy but where they usually have three smaller kickers back to back, they had one and park stuff after that. Not to worry, Gurti pulled out the camera and snapped a few of me going over a small jump that was being smashed by others mucking around on it.
Gurti completed two back to back runs down the main green one with I think a total of three tumbles. It looks as though she's becoming more comfortable on her feet and was linking some turns and sliding 360's. Ben had headed up a second lift and was doing his own thing. He met up with me and we headed back up to where he was and he's progressing well too. Yesterday he bought a helmet and now he looks like a Lego man!
The plan was to finish up at 4 and head to Coronet for some night skiing before meeting up with Tim's crew at the Minus 5 bar but we figured we'd be short on time, especially seeing as though we need to sneak dinner in there somewhere. We left the field and once showered, we tried our luck at Winnies. Three pizzas, drinks and a game of pool later, we were feeling quite full and left for the ice bar.
When I was here a few years ago and staying with Gus, he warned me how it was a bit of a tourist trap. It is and it was a bit novel but when you're hanging out with friends, it doesn't really matter. Tim and Trish met us there however Henri and his girl had piked (soft I tell ya!). Tim and Trish and two cocktails while our group had flavoured vodka shots (mine was chilli) and a cocktail (I had yellow snow) which was yum.
They only allow 30 min bookings so after we had been ousted, we checked out another bar. They had NRL playing which was followed by AU vs NZ in the rugby while we sat around swapping stories of our exploits and travel tales. Trish bought us a round of Yagar bombs which proved popular however a few of us were getting a bit tired. We parted company and headed home for some rest.
Gurti says...
Did I mention this place was amazing already?! There is so much to write about seeing as though this is my first entry in a few days but I'll just punch out some highlights. Taking the gondola up the mountain to our buffet dinnert the other night was fantastic. I realised that Im not such a fan of heights afterall and when the boys started to rock the gondola i nearly had a heart attack. The view from up there was so gorgeous but didnt last long as we had headed up late arvo. Seeing Cookie laugh so hard that he started crying was pretty memorable on that evening also.
Although im a bit of a softy on the slopes I have been making accomplishments everyday. It doesnt help when every bone and muscle in your body is aching and your knees are the colour of a rainbow. But I have managed to take the lift up with complete strangers.... yes it was an accident, managed to do one run with only one small stack, starting to link turns and do a few 360's, starting to master the art of falling gracefully and entering/exiting the lifts is not as scary as it used to be.
The drive up to the Remarkables yesterday was scary as anything but on the same token it was pretty exciting and breath taking.I think I prefer it to Coronet Peak although I have found my little prayer mountain there:) I got to pull out cookies camera on the slopes yesterday and take a few shots of him hitting a jump..and felt like i was in my element. I could have stayed there all day!!!!
The food has been amazing, Cookie really does know the good joints to eat out at but my plans of sheading some kgs on this trip is so not happening. I havent eaten so much pizza, chips and burgers in my life!
Today is just going to be a lazy one. I wouldnt mind going for a bit of a road trip like the other day to Cardrona and taking a few snaps cuz when you are driving at 100km an hour, it really doesnt make for a good photo.
5 more days to go....and I really dont want to come home....
Hey guys, how bout a game of cards tonight?
Late rise today. Morgan did his own thing (probably sleeping again) while the rest of us were half-day Harry's as we didn't make it onto the snow until after 12. Tried Remarks today for a change. The winter games had some events on there so the big jumps were busy but where they usually have three smaller kickers back to back, they had one and park stuff after that. Not to worry, Gurti pulled out the camera and snapped a few of me going over a small jump that was being smashed by others mucking around on it.
Gurti completed two back to back runs down the main green one with I think a total of three tumbles. It looks as though she's becoming more comfortable on her feet and was linking some turns and sliding 360's. Ben had headed up a second lift and was doing his own thing. He met up with me and we headed back up to where he was and he's progressing well too. Yesterday he bought a helmet and now he looks like a Lego man!
Is this guy SAS or something?
The plan was to finish up at 4 and head to Coronet for some night skiing before meeting up with Tim's crew at the Minus 5 bar but we figured we'd be short on time, especially seeing as though we need to sneak dinner in there somewhere. We left the field and once showered, we tried our luck at Winnies. Three pizzas, drinks and a game of pool later, we were feeling quite full and left for the ice bar.
Gurti pretending to be a bit of a pool shark
(she sank that shot and saved us from a pants down a few nights later)
When I was here a few years ago and staying with Gus, he warned me how it was a bit of a tourist trap. It is and it was a bit novel but when you're hanging out with friends, it doesn't really matter. Tim and Trish met us there however Henri and his girl had piked (soft I tell ya!). Tim and Trish and two cocktails while our group had flavoured vodka shots (mine was chilli) and a cocktail (I had yellow snow) which was yum.
I slipped on the ice and this is what I saw
They only allow 30 min bookings so after we had been ousted, we checked out another bar. They had NRL playing which was followed by AU vs NZ in the rugby while we sat around swapping stories of our exploits and travel tales. Trish bought us a round of Yagar bombs which proved popular however a few of us were getting a bit tired. We parted company and headed home for some rest.
The crew got sick of my driving and found another mode of transport
Gurti says...
Did I mention this place was amazing already?! There is so much to write about seeing as though this is my first entry in a few days but I'll just punch out some highlights. Taking the gondola up the mountain to our buffet dinnert the other night was fantastic. I realised that Im not such a fan of heights afterall and when the boys started to rock the gondola i nearly had a heart attack. The view from up there was so gorgeous but didnt last long as we had headed up late arvo. Seeing Cookie laugh so hard that he started crying was pretty memorable on that evening also.
Although im a bit of a softy on the slopes I have been making accomplishments everyday. It doesnt help when every bone and muscle in your body is aching and your knees are the colour of a rainbow. But I have managed to take the lift up with complete strangers.... yes it was an accident, managed to do one run with only one small stack, starting to link turns and do a few 360's, starting to master the art of falling gracefully and entering/exiting the lifts is not as scary as it used to be.
Slopes all to myself, yeah!
The drive up to the Remarkables yesterday was scary as anything but on the same token it was pretty exciting and breath taking.I think I prefer it to Coronet Peak although I have found my little prayer mountain there:) I got to pull out cookies camera on the slopes yesterday and take a few shots of him hitting a jump..and felt like i was in my element. I could have stayed there all day!!!!
The food has been amazing, Cookie really does know the good joints to eat out at but my plans of sheading some kgs on this trip is so not happening. I havent eaten so much pizza, chips and burgers in my life!
Today is just going to be a lazy one. I wouldnt mind going for a bit of a road trip like the other day to Cardrona and taking a few snaps cuz when you are driving at 100km an hour, it really doesnt make for a good photo.
5 more days to go....and I really dont want to come home....
Hey guys, how bout a game of cards tonight?
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