Hello Me Lovelies,

Our last month was spent in Tonga with a generator down and tenuous computer access, so we owe you some stories and pictures. Check back for Tongan entries when we get tired of NZ.

Sora reached New Zealand late Monday evening after 6 days of high winds and confused seas. We sailed from Tonga to Minerva Reef 11/10 in beautiful conditions where we waited for a weather window on to Zealand. Unfortunately our 2 days at the reef were overcast and rainy so we didn't dive or even snorkel, but we did catch tuna and mahi! This passage is noted for bad weather and we had our share, but over all it was a quick trip with the last day calm, beam reach with 7 to 8 knots boat speed - fantastic. The majority of our cruising buddies left 2 weeks before Sora and arrived 1 day earlier. I did it, I did it - made passage over the cruel South Pacific and lived to tell you all about it!

As we were approaching Bay of Islands the sun was setting behind jagged peaks painting the sky fiery orange. The last rays shone on pine forests and rolling green hills which fell off into the harbor. Cassie turned to me and said, "Mom, this smells like Montana." The air is crisp, cool and dry so unlike the humid tropical islands where we've spent the last 8 months - invigorating! Welcome to NZ!

I've done it again - this is the most gorgeous country I've ever seen! Fresh air, clean streets, verdant forests, profusion of flowers, neat homes, warm funny people. What more could you ask?

We checked in at Opua and plan to stay here for a few days while we trade horror stories with other cruisers. Then we're on to Whangarei where we'll buy a vehicle and explore this gorgeous country. The local yacht club hosted a Thanks Giving (for safe passage as opposed to our harvest Thanksgiving) dinner Thursday. We thought of you all as we chowed down on our turkey.

Hope you're all well and are enjoying a beautiful autumn.

Love, Sora