We've finally made it...to Gore. Way south on the South Island of New Zealand. The flight was uninteresting except that the final leg was done on a turbo-prop plane. The take-off and landing were quick and loose.

We met some Drs at the clinic. Two of the docs--a married couple originally from Germany--Jochem and Freya picked us up. They were wonderful and gave us the scoop on Gore and a typical day at the clinic. Gore at first glance is very green and hills can be seen at a distance. I can't wait to start chasing some sheep up a hill!

The apartment or "flat" is great. We have a kitchen and living room. There is a separate bedroom and bath.

We also appear to have cable TV. So more than 6 channels exist in NZ.

Now G didn't allow me to bring my bicycle (in a bike box) because she wasn't sure how we would get from airports to apartments and hotels and the like. First, remember the extra cost from extra baggage (see other post)? Imagine the cost plus a bike. Plus we didn't know if the vehicles we would get would be bike transport-friendly. I was joking about getting a Smart Car and room for 2. Well, as you can see from the picture, our Toyota isn't that small, but close.

Ok, just joking. It is not that small, but sure different from our cars back home. Also of note, I started driving...watch out sheep! The car is a stick-shift, so I have to use my left hand. It is awkward...so far no dead sheep nor accidental shifts into reverse. Also, the turn signal and wipers are on the opposite side of what we are accustomed to. Several times I turned on the wiper blades when I wanted a turn signal.

Another note of levity: We are staying at grandma's house. How old do you think these couches and tables are? Take a look at the radio!

Well, I am celebrating us arriving safety in Gore with a store-bought lemon meringue pie (G wasn't insulted) and watching a mindless movie. I like NZ.