New Zealand Trip 2014

We set off to New Zealand on the 21st of January for my Nana's 80th Birthday. We were somewhat cautious going on a plane as it was Lachlan's first time, but this was a birthday I was not willing to miss. To cut a long story short, our plane had brake problems and was not able to land in Wellington, so we were flown to Auckland instead. Our 3 hour trip turned into 7 hours, add to the mix a overtired toddler and the fact that we almost missed our rental car, and it made for one stressed out mummy. Thankfully we made it to my hometown in one piece after a 90 minute drive and pulled up to my Nana's house just as the sun was setting to surprise her.

We spent many days catching up with friends and family. Lachlan got to meet his great grandad for the first time.

I got to help with my Nana's Birthday Party.


















I got to see my Aunty Helen from the USA who I haven't seen in years.

I got to catch up with my friend of almost 17 years, Jennifer.

We got to try and launch the contiki at the beach one night with my uncle Brendon.

and best of all, we got to celebrate Nana's 80th Birthday together as a family.

Complete with the family tradition the 'Birdy Dance'.

Kayla, my cousin who Lachlan adored.

With a pinata made by my talented cousin, Natasha.

and laughs all around reminiscing about old times.

Melts my heart...

 We went on a bushwalk

to the local playground

and watched the sun set at the beach while eating fish and chips..

Then after a quick 9 day visit, it was time to leave. Lachlan wanted to bring Nanny and Poppy home with us, and was upset to find out that he couldn't. The flight home went a lot smoother than the flight over, and the hot wheels cars and planes from Nanny kept Lachlan amused while at the airport. After a very long, tantrum filled 4 hour drive, we arrived home safe and sound.