After a brief sleep we headed to the airport to start our mammoth journey home.
Our first plane departed Christchurch at 06:21 and arrived in Sydney just before 08:00. Luckily we had decided that we would book into the Quantas Lounge which made the 9 hours we had before our flight home more bearable. In fact the corner we pitched in made the wait quite pleasant, together with the food and other goodies supplied.

Finally our flight was called and we boarded already bored with sitting down, but with the expectation of the 14 hour flight home, arriving 2 hours later than we departed on 6th March!!

Highlights, like any longhaul flight, were few. Good selection of films, but included those watched on the flight out. Cabin crew were fairly anonymous as they decided we were on night flights, both before our refuelling stop in Dubai and after. This meant that we had two aircraft breakfasts and a number of inedible snacks, not one of my better culinary flights.

Unfortunately Bobby sat next to the passenger from hell, or close to it, on both legs of the journey. Not only did he have a rude manner, he belched, and managed to talk loudly just as Bobby was dropping off. This list could be added to but he really isn't worth any more words.

The journey back was as tiring as we expected, more so than when we planned the trip because of the changed flight, so we were pleased that we must have had a tailwind, as we landed 34 minuts ahead of schedule. After clearing all of the airport arrival rituals we were it was great to see Roger, waiting to drive us home.

What a trip this has been. As the previous chapters have shown New Zealand is an amazing experience. One we have thoroughly enjoyed and would repeat again when we are able. However, before we do we have other travels to make, including Copenhagen next month. Whilst the wine won't be as good the fish should be!.