March 28

March 28, 2016 – Wellington
We started the day with a one hour tour of Parliament. It was very interesting and the guide, a Maori woman, was very enthusiastic and knowledgeable  in her presentation. It was the 2nd Maori that we had met in the last 2 days who stressed looking forward rather than dwelling on the past.
We had the rest of the day off so Susan and I did last minute shopping. For lunch we decided that Gelato was the best option. Easter Monday was a public holiday and restaurants could charge a 15% surcharge because they had to pay time and a half plus another day off to all employees who worked. So our Gelato cost a little more but it was worth it.
We got back to the hotel around 1pm. There was a group meeting scheduled for 5pm so we both went to our rooms to pack and to shower. Around 4pm, I went down to the bar. I had $25 left so I had a really nice glass of Shiraz.
At our group meeting we were requested to tell our high and low points of the tour. The low points were mostly the long bus rides but we also understood that it was the only way to get around. The Jet boats and meeting Maoris were on the high points for many. Alan gave us all Maori calendars. We set off for our final dinner. Dinner was great and we got back to the hotel at 9pm with everyone going directly to their rooms hoping to get 5 or 6 hours sleep.
March 29, 2016 – Flying home
We all met in the lobby at 3:50am. We were give box breakfasts consisting of muesli, ham and cheese, croissant and pastries, and a bottle of orange juice. I left mine at the hotel since I didn’t feel like eating that early. There was a delay in the shuttle arrival so Jackie, Mike, and I were put in a taxi. We only got to the airport about 5 minutes before the rest arrived.
I was the only one of our group in business class so I went to the lounge for a cappuccino. I brought a pancake out for Susan but hesitated to bring out much more.
The flight to Sydney was uneventful and we arrived about 1/2 hour early. The estimated of the group is flying to L.A. so their flight was 10:50am while mine to SFO was 2pm. Right before I went to say my last goodbye as they boarded, I found out my flight was delayed 4 hours. The only good thing is that I can hang out in comfort in the business class lounge for the 10 hours that I will be here