David Azhar Appeal Blog

Green Man Day – Wellington

Green Man Day – Wellington

Posted on October 4, 2011 by Norrie

We continue our journey south towards Wellington - stopping off at Taupo before tackling the last leg - when Sandy suddenly announces that he has left his phone in the Hamilton hotel.  A quick call back to the hotel and they kindly offer to send it on to our digs in Wellington.

A mention must be made of something that has become a daily feature of the tour.  First thing in the morning, or when the assembled company rises, a word or words are selected which must not be spoken each and every one of us are its enforcers – so there is no hiding place. If the daily word(s) are uttered, or even referred to, then a dollar fine is imposed upon the transgressor.  The word today was ‘Wellington’ and every one of us has fallen foul of it several times.  A good example of this was when we made a stop for petrol, we are now in the station shop, gathered around the pay desk, when the attendant asks where we are heading, everyone is looking at everyone else to see who will answer, the attendant is looking somewhat bemused at the silence and the looks we are giving each other. Paul (Thompson) being a nice guy and feeling sorry for the shop keeper blurts out ‘Wellington’ at which point everyone demands his dollar.  We explain the situation putting big smiles on the faces of everyone in the shop.

We arrive at about 9pm and the apartments where we are staying are all locked up.  A 5hr journey had taken 9hrs due to stops and the constant weaving on the road that Nick (Clough) subjects his passengers to.  We eventually gain access to our apartments which are in the centre of town -big, spacious and luxurious! 

A quick freshen up and in no time we are in the Hummingbird pub with its old music and atmosphere, but because it is a Monday night there are very few people there. Those that are very quickly become part of the crowd and a very pleasant end to the day is enjoyed by all.

Tuesday morning, the words of the day are not surprisingly ‘Mobile’ and ‘Phone’.  We’ve woken to a wet and windy Wellington.  Nick is an early bird and he has already got the place spic and span (once a submariner always a submariner).  He has been out to get some shopping and has prepared breakfast. Some of the guys have, amazingly, gone training as the apartments have an arrangement with the local gym which is located opposite us.  Needless to say this does not include the intrepid duo or Andy.

On their return we are all kilted up and head out sightseeing.  Craig however was way ahead of everyone and had been to reception where he had picked up a package for Sandy; his phone had arrived.  He informs everyone, except of course Sandy, then all the stored numbers Sandy has on his phone are swapped and the phone is given to Gary to place in an envelope as if it had just been delivered -the scene was set.

We then do what all tourists do here and go on the Wellington cable car which takes you to a position high over the city where the vistas are magnificent.  Unfortunately it is raining so the views are limited. Some of the other tourists who have ventured up make the most of it and again we are centre attention for photographs as they all want to be caught on film with us in our kilts.

We climb back aboard the cable car for our descent and head for the Green Man pub for lunch where we are met by ‘Gene’ (Sua) who lives just out of town. Some years ago when Gene had lived in Glasgow (where he was playing rugby for Glasgow High) he had met Andy, Sandy and Norrie so this was a chance for a reunion. Once we had all gathered Gary produced the envelope containing Sandy’s phone much to Sandy’s relief, so much so that he bought a round of drinks, not knowing that the phone had been  ‘doctored’.

A few drinks were quaffed before we headed off to the Te Papa museum so that the guys could all be filmed doing the Haka.  As always we get separated en route so Sandy decides to call Alan and when Paul answers the phone he just assumes Paul has answered Alan’s phone so no suspicions yet …. but as he continues to call people he is constantly getting the wrong person. The penny eventually drops and he realises he has been ‘had’.

When we arrive at Te Papa a ‘Tour Court Hearing’ has been convened, with Gary as the Judge.  First to be tried was Alan and the charge ……… he had retired to bed early on only his second night.  The case was proved beyond any doubt and the usual monetary sentence was administered. Next up was Sandy, his crime -forgetting his phone and leaving it at the previous nights hotel.  This was a more serious conviction, but as he had bought a round of drinks this was deemed sufficient punishment.  However, as Sandy did not have enough cash on him at the time he bought the round, Norrie had subbed him money so the judge deemed contempt of court and Norrie was duly fined for giving Sandy the money which would subsequently have become Sandy’s fine.  The court was adjourned and the Museum visit continued.

In the museum we are approached by a film crew from BBC Wales, they are obviously here preparing for the Welsh quarter final weekend’s game against Ireland.  Because we have our kilts on they would like us to perform the ‘haka’ (as seen on the site).  We agree and when they discover Norrie is Welsh they are even more keen and once they become aware of Norrie’s tattoo there is no holding them back. The haka is performed, Norrie`s tattoo exposed and the scene is expected to be screened in Wales that night on the ‘Wales Today’ news programme.

On the way back to the apartment Sandy recieves a call from Nils Lieben and Peter De Villiers, Coach and Assistant of the South African Rugby team, inviting him and Norrie to their hotel for a drink that evening and of course the invite is accepted.  At 7.30pm Sandy and Norrie head off to the South African hotel while the ohers head to the Green Man to meet up with Gene, his brothers Dave and Bernie and their partners. Sandy and Norrie are met by the South Africans and taken in to what they call their ‘home from home’.  This is an area of the team hotel that is given over to hospitality which is financed by the South African Government.  We have a great time there and when we are leaving an invite is extended for all eight of us to return for lunch the next day.

Following a quick phone call to check where the guys are, Sandy and Norrie accompanied by Nils Lieben, make their way back to join them at the Green Man.  We rejoin the group who now include Ken Aitken, his wife Norma and son Stewart (Past President of Kilmarnock RFC and all round good guy). It is a Tuesday night so again the place is not particularly busy, but with the kind of company present the inevitable happens and a sing song breaks out with Sandy leading, which Nils particularly enjoys.

Pic – Night Out in the Green Man Pub, Wellington with Nils, Gene and his family and their partners 

Another good night is had before we head back to the hotel via an all night petrol station where stacks of food is bought and we all go to one of the apartments and have a ‘midnight feast’ washed down with the remaining grog.

Today is set for the ‘hospitality’ in the South African Team Hotel, followed by a BBQ at Gene’s house in Lower Hutt, Wellington.  Might not be able to type tomorrow’s update again!!!!!!!

Pic – In the ‘Home from Home’ South African Hospitality Lounge in Wellington 

Day 28: Hamilton and ‘Hamilton’ with the Welsh

Day 28: Hamilton and ‘Hamilton’ with the Welsh

Posted on October 3, 2011 by Norrie

Yes disappointed, but not down, as our allegiance moves to the Welsh – so it was on to Hamilton to take in the Wales against Fiji game. Incredibly the crew eventually assemble with a couple of the guys looking the worse of wear, but keen to enjoy the delights that a Sunday in NZ has to offer.

Our journey  to Hamilton is only two hours due south of Auckland and en route we stop in the quaint wee town of Huntly, which is obviously named after its namesake in Scotland.  Huntly, NZ, is like most other NZ towns with its canopied pavements as the norm. 

Because of the previous nights festivities we are thankful to come across the local chinese restaurant as we drive through and it is open! So the shout goes up to stop as juice, water and a much needed feed is necessary.  The time is about 12 noon, but 8 all day breakfasts are ordered. Our apparel is kilts and wherever we stop we very quickly become the focus of attention. Huntly is no different and as we are scoffing the grub we fall  under a barrage of questions from two young kids whose father, seated nearby, is obviously writing a book on Ancient and Modern day Scotland by the amount of questions be is initiating to us via his kids.

Hunger and thirst satisfied we press on and arrive in Hamilton, in the newly christened Mystery Machine -of Scobby Doo fame (we also discover that Craig Aikman can do a remarkable, and highly entertaining, impression of the cartoon dog).  A quick change and then it is out into the Fanzone in Hamilton, where, despite some suffering from the night before and nearly bawking at the first of the days alcoholic, the intake is taken.

The Guys Seating Arrangments in the ‘Mystery Machine’ – Nick Driving, Alan Watson, Craig Aitman, Gary Thompson, Paul Thompson, Andy Hamilton (Bending), Norrie (rear right), Sandy (taking picture – rear left) 

On leaving the first pub we are applauded by the Welsh and NZ guys in the zone due to the kilts and hats etc.  We then are approached and invited to the Hamilton Old Boys Rugby Club which is located immediately adjacent to the Waikato ground where the evenings game is being played. More refreshments are quaffed before it is time to go to the game where the Welsh played the game that Scotland should have played against Argentina, clinical and positive allowing them to easily overcome their Fijian opponents and the final whistle is cheered by ………. well, nobody from our party as the weather was so bad that we had all retired to the Rugby Club bar before the final whistle.  Little did we know that the night was to become yet another memorable occasion for our rugby annuls.

The Guys in a bar in Hamilton Prior to the Wales v Fiji Game 

At this stage we need to introduce the details of our sweep, which has been ongoing since the other guys arrived here. For the princely sum of 5 dollars each participant has to make a guess at the final accumulative score in each match, then if nobody guesses correctly the total prize money is added to and more guesses are tendered for next game etc. There have been those who have come close with Nick almost winning at 160 and 200 dollars respectively. It was only a last minute kick in the Argentine game that deprived him of the money on one occasion.

Anyway back to the night, there is a five piece band playing a selection of oldies and as those present were overwhelmingly male, any dancing was non existent and communal singing would be a better description.  I am sure once again you are way ahead, because there was nothing else for it as the lure of the microphone had a mesmerising effect on Sandy, an effect he just could not resist. He made his move, strode up pushed the musicians and so called singer to the side and once again took over the master of ceremonies by leading the communal singing and the crowd are whipped up into a frenzy of cheering and singing.

But now back to the sweep, because the Ireland v Italy game is behind shown on a big screen behind Sandy.  None of the guys are paying attention to Sandy, their attention is on the screen as Norrie looks certain to win the 280 dollars that is in the pot due to Ireland beating Italy at this point by 29 to 6 (total 35) there is a disallowed try and a mere 20 seconds to go.  Italy re start with a kick off from their 22, Sandy is belting out one of his songs and while the rest of the guys are shouting and berating Norrie, as he looks certain to win the pot, Ireland gather the kick off and run in for another converted try, its the last move of the game and it moves the total points onto 42!!

Sandy is oblivious to all this, so when the good news that Norrie has not won reaches him he is pleased, but it takes some time for him to realise that hehad actually won the pot!  As is customary the Champagne is bought with his winnings which is quickly quaffed. We say goodbye to the Hamilton Old Boys Rugby Club and head back to the Fanzone. We are met there by Norrie’s nephew, Rhys, and his pals so the party goes on well into the small hours.

Monday morning and everyone has a long lie (and boy is it needed) so a late start is on the cards for our journey south to Wellington in the Scooby Doo Mystery Machine.   We are finally packed and bound for Wellington - although there are no games being held here it’s an essential tourist destination for the new guys.  A stop in Taupo again gives us the opportunity to hydrate and eat lunch before we are off again on our journey south to the capital.

To all the folk we have met in the past couple of nights, including the Welshs, McGees, the Welsh fans, the Old Boys in Hamilton and any we have not mentioned, thank you all once again. We are also well aware that the Scottish team are now probably at home – so can we thank all of them too and wish them well, our best wishes especially to the captain Al Kellock.  Although we are out of the competition as a team we will be continuing to fly the Scottish flag around NZ as a small but vocal Scottish platoon till the final and beyond.  Rest assured we will continue the true Scottish tradition of having a good time and making sure those around have a good time too, so continue to log in as we intend to be as vocal and visible as ever till the very last gasp!

A quick message for Audrey in Fenwick …….. Andy and all the boys say hello.

The TV interiews will continue unabated………………………….

NO WAY!!

I STILL CAN’T BELIEVE SANDY AND NORRIE MET ONE OF MY FAVE PLAYERS BRYAN HABANA, UNREAL!!

Old Friends Re United – De Villiers, Lieben, Habana

Old Friends Re United – De Villiers, Lieben, Habana

Posted on September 29, 2011 by Norrie

When you start to think that things just cannot get better – guess what -they do…………………

Our drive north to Auckland is interrupted by our first traffic congestion – the roads have been empty up till now. As we snake north, along Highway 2, we pass a tanker in the middle of the road that has crunched some unsuspecting motor coming the other way. Then as we near Auckland the clock is registering 5.30pm and we are confronted with our first traffic jam in New Zealand.

We slow to a crawl along but we can see the legendary ‘Eden Park’ in the distance; Auckland’s main stadium. Incredibly (with Norrie being the navigator) we are slowly taken directly to the front door of The Chiffley Suites, which will be our base for the next four weeks in Auckland.  As we check in we are met by Rebecca, an Aberdonian, who has been Norrie’s contact here in Auckland, and what a great help she has been.

Auckland itself is buzzing with World Cup fever!  No sooner are we checked in than Katrina (a lassie we met several years ago at The Hilton in Glasgow when we were looking after the South African U21 team and she was with the Tongans) appeared at our hotel; somehow she knew we were coming to town. Katrina had already been in contact with Peter De Villiers, the South African coach, and had arranged for us to go with her to their hotel to meet up with him.

A quick freshen up and we are off to the Crown Plaza where the SA team are staying. No sooner have we arrived when we are confronted by a huge blonde guy, Schalke Berger, the ‘Welsh Twats’ and John will remember him from our excursion to Manly in Sydney, Australia during the Lions tour in 2005. Incredibly he recognises us – so a photo is taken.

With Schalke Berger 

No sooner had he left than Peter De Villiers and his assistant coach, Nils Lieber, appear and we meet them (we had the privilege of assisting them when we were the liaison for SA some 7 years ago -at that time they were the coaches of the SA U21 team). Peter’s first words to us were that he could do with ‘two policemen that solve problems’. He had not been briefed at all prior to meeting us, but obviously remembered!! This is now becoming an incredible evening as some of the most famous South African rugby players are gracing our company. People like the legendary Percy Montgomery, unfortunately we do not have any connection to him – but the photo is taken anyway.

Sandy & Norrie with Peter De Villiers (SA Coach) and Nils Leiben – both of whom we met and enjoyed many social occasions in 2004 (Under 21 Championship)in Glasgiw – who would have believed it – they remembered us!!! 

Percy Montgomery takes Time Out with the Guys – Thanks!! 

telephones Bryan Habana’s room, as Bryan had also been one of the U21s at that time, and incredibly Bryan came down to the bar, with his gorgeous wife, to spend a little time talking about his time in Glasgow. Bryan will be posting a personal message to David Azhar on his own site.

The ‘Numpties’ with the Most Famous Rugby Player onthe Earth 

Once again we have been privileged to be in the company of some lovely people and Katrina is arranging for us to meet up with her parents (her Dad was the manager of the Tongan team in 2004). To Peter De Villiers, Nils Lieben, Schalke Berger and Bryan Habana, thank you so much for giving us your time. We certainly enjoyed meeting you guys in Glasgow 7 years ago and look forward to your company very soon.  Without doubt David will be pleased that he is being associated with these guys and will hopefully be happy for them to mention him in their websites.

If it gets any better for two young men, like Norrie and Sandy, then God knows what has to happen!!! What a day and what memories were discussed – these guys remember Lochinch, Strathclyde Police hospitality, and the times we had – from small acorns, oak trees grow – we have found that oak tree!!!

Day 27: Match Day v ‘Auld Enemy’ in the Land of the Long White Cloud

Day 27: Match Day v ‘Auld Enemy’ in the Land of the Long White Cloud

Posted on October 1, 2011 by Sandy

After a late first night for the new starts, during which they had attended a raucous concert by the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, there was a lengthy stop taken by some in bed – while others got up and went shopping, ironing and making the beds …… Nick (Clough) step forward. Andy (Hamilton) has never had his room looking so spotless as he shares with Nick.

Alan (Watson) paid particular attention to his breakfast this morning to ensure he hadn’t lost any of his food!! Thereafter it was down to the harbour-side for a pre-match drink during which several of the guys were accosted by television companies from all over the world for their comments on the forthcoming match. It was during this that we met an old face from Glais Rugby Club in Wales, Ceri Jones, who played against us over 20 years ago but is still recognisable and is attending the 25th Anniversary Game next year.

Then it was off to Eden Rugby Club for an event hosted by the ‘Auckland Young Lawyers’ which Sandy had arranged for the troops to attend. The club started quietly (we were first through the door) but within a couple of hours everyone, and I mean everyone, was belting out some of Sandy’s ‘Greatest Hits’ and a momentous afternoon and early evening took place in the club. They also provided exceptional food and a Maori dance troupe who were superb. It is likely that we will be back to it for the forthcoming Quarter Final and subsequent games at Eden Park.

Sandy with the Maori Dancers at Eden Rugby Club – they asked to be photographed with him!! 

We were then piped from the club to the ground. The Club banner was erected behind the posts and we tried to settle down.

Marching with the Piper at the beginning of the route – we were joined by hundreds! 

At the game with the banner!! 

Again, the game speaks for itself and while we had more than enough opportunity to win, we failed to do so. Anyway, the crowd around us was keen to be photographed with us, including the English supporters. We are also advised that our ‘ugly mushes’ appeared on the TV back home singing the anthem.

After match it was back to Eden Rugby Club to take up where we had left earlier and again the singing was rapturous and well received. This time a mike was provided for Sandy much to his delight!!

Tomorrow the journey continues with us travelling to Hamilton to watch Norrie’s adopted team, Wales, against Fiji – that is if we managed to get everyone out the pubs in Auckland as there appears to be no actual licensing hours!  We are of course sick as parrots but the hospitality of the Kiwis continues unabated despite our exit (seems guaranteed unless Richie Dixon’s Georgia provides the biggest surprise in Rugby history).

Here’s to Wales and their escapades in the cup – never thought Sandy would be typing that!!

Day 26 – Auckland- The Guys arrive

Day 26 – Auckland- The Guys arrive

Posted on September 30, 2011 by Norrie

The alarm clock rings at 7am and Sandy shouts through to Norrie, who instantly jumps to attention, we are after all going to pick the boys up. Both have a quick shower to freshen up - then alarmingly the phone rings with Alan Watson texting that they have landed. S***!  We have not even left the apartment!!!

A quick exit sees us out on the sunny Auckland streets heading towards the airport, thankfully at this time of the morning all the traffic is coming towards us.  Unfortunately Andy breaks our confidence of arriving on time when he phones to say he is outside the terminal, with the rest of them in the duty free. Sandy – yes, Sandy – is driving and for once he is pushing the pedal down, which means we arrive shortly after the guys are through customs.

Into our luxury, but extremely small, coach they climb and are then heading for their luxurious accommodation.

Thankfully for us their rooms are ready.  No sooner are they in but Alan is wandering the corridors of the hotel with his Drambuie bottle.  No time for messing about!! Gear safely placed in the accommodation -breakfast beckons at the cafe across the road from our hotel. The order is taken but Alan for some reason decides to leave the table. No sooner has he got up when his burger is removed from its bun and shared amongst the assembled.

Alan returns to his plate and eventually, after several bites, realises there is no burger in his bun and complains to the management. The place is in uproar as other patrons in the premises have witnessed our pilfering and consumption…..and the only one not in on it is Alan himself! The management decide to replace the burger that they have forgotten to put on the bun but of course we pay for it anyway!!  Good craic there is no better way to start the next leg of our journey.

After breakfast we all head down town, eventually finishing up at the harbour-side. Then in no time at all interviews are being given to Al Jazeera TV (yes you are probably as confused as we were), local Auckland radio, South African TV and even the BBC. Numerous rugby players, former and present, appear and allow themselves to be photographed by the many folk gathered in the bars.

The young members go off to ‘The Red Hot Chilli Pipers’ and the other three old farts head for the bar – I’m sure you can guess who they are.

It is now after 2am and we have spent at least an hour trying to type this ………………….. another day in paradise!!!

Day 23 & 24: Onwards to Mount Maunganui

Day 23 & 24: Onwards to Mount Maunganui

Posted on September 29, 2011 by Norrie

Once again a couple of days have passed since our last update, the reason being the wonderful hospitality of the ‘Kiwis’.  We took in the Wales v Namibia game at New Plymouth and watched Wales totally overwhelm their opponents, much to the pleasure of Norrie.  Sandy was cheering on the Namibians but being confused comes naturally to some people!!

We have taken to the farm life in Taranaki so much we went on a boundary survey with Lloyd.  His farm has some 300 dairy cows and probably the same number of beef cattle. The land itself has been cleared over the years by Lloyd’s ancestors and its boundary stretches from the sea and goes right up to the edge of the Mount Taranaki National Park. We are very lucky to be able to experience this and go into what is natural New Zealand bush – I know this will attract comment but so what!!  Anyway the experience was great and as we had moved further up the slope with this huge volcanic monster looming over us as we turn around we are treated to a superb elevated view of the Taranaki coast including the islands just off the coast and, further away in the far distance, the Southern Alps on the South Island - fantastic! 

We get back to the farm house where Jo has once again prepared some lovely home cooking – as if we need it – it is something we just cannot resist and scoff the lot. A very pleasant evening is spent in the company of these great folk and together we watch the games between the Canada v Japan then the USA v Italy.

The next morning looms and it is now time to leave - Jo is still insisting we come back next week with the rest of the numpties. We will see if that is possible, as she is quite a persistent person and really does want us to come back – as surprising as this may sound. However, we have to leave heading towards Mount Maunganui on the East Coast of the North Island of NZ (New Plymouth was on the west Coast) where Terry and Jeanette, who we met in the Cook Islands, are awaiting our arrival so off we go.

The road north initially hugs the coast with Sandy driving our luxury bus, without a CD player. The radio stations when we can receive seem to be constantly playing some sort of religious stories, but thankfully Norrie has his ‘ipod’ which is quickly utilised and once again the bus is booming with some decent music. The road turns inland and we travel through gorges and over mountains before entering the town of Te Kuiti, famous for being the birth place and home town of Sir Colin Meads, ‘Pinetree’, anyone who knows anything about rugby will know him. It would be impossible not to know this because as you enter town they seem to have changed its name to ‘Meadsville’ and the main street is bedecked with pictures and photographs of the big man, not only in his playing days but also through all the time since then. We get a photograph taken beside a huge jersey which depicts the high esteem he is held in, not just here, but by all the New Zealand public and we were fortunate enough to have met him six years ago when we were out with the Lions. (As Terry said later, there doesn’t seem to be anyone who we have not met on our sojourns).

With the big mans shirt – `Meadsville` 

Our pit stop ends and we are back on the road following a quick call to Terry just to reassure ourselves that he is happy for us to stay. Of course he is!?! So we are now travelling through the centre of the North Island towards Mount Maungnui.  On the outskirts of town Sandy phones and we are guided in, as we enter the street where they live they are both in the middle of the road waving their arms greeting us. Quick reunion hugs and a freshen up before we are taken out to one of the local bars – Latitude 37. The bar is busy and our kilts are having their usual effect with local and indeed many Welsh, Irish and English supporters giving us a warm welcome.  Norrie even meets a guy from Ystradgynlais which is a village a couple of miles from where he comes from in Wales. We watch the game that is screened live (Richie Dixon’s Georgia team has its’ first victory) before returning to Terry and Janette’s house.

Terry and Jeanette supporting their team 

Their house overlooks the sea to one side and Mount Maunganui on the other, simply lovely. Then guess what – yes you have it one - Terry produces more drink and the music is playing loud and the four of us are having a party so much so that Jeannette tells us the next morning that she fell asleep on the floor. This however did not prevent her getting up and going for her daily hike up the Mount. We rise a little later and head down to the town, where we again become the centre of attention, for a coffee where Janette meets us. Following coffee all four of us take a hike around the Mount itself, Sandy is complaining about his hamstring, but all those who know him know he does not have one. We also visit the ‘Bay Park’ Stadium, locally known as the ‘Wok’, the home of the Bay of Plenty Rugby Team.

We are now set for Auckland to meet the guys tomorrow morning where I daresay the action will intensify. The hospitality of Terry and Janette has again been more than we could ever have expected, from relative strangers – another example of Kiwi exceptional hospitality.

Day 22 (I think): Taranaki – North Island

Day 22 (I think): Taranaki – North Island

Posted on September 27, 2011 by Sandy

Our drive North from Wellington was to encompass visiting Lloyd and Jo Morgan who stayed close to the bottom of the slopes of Mount Taranaki.  This stems from a meeting during the Lions Tour in 2005 when we visited Palmerston North and met Lloyd and Jo in a restaurant; they were sitting in an adjacent table.  Such were their impressions of the ‘idiots’ that they were intent of having us visit them should we ever come to NZ again.  True to their word, on learning that NZ was hosting the World Cup, Lloyd had contacted John (Gillies) and Norrie to see if we could come along.  This was recently followed up by a text from Lloyd to Norrie requesting we visit. 

On leaving Patea (library update) yesterday we drove towards New Plymouth.  About two miles outside Pateo we gradually become aware of this giant, imposing (scary to be honest) volcano off to our right, which rises out of the relative flat surounding landscape.  The skies were clear blue and the view magnificent -prompting us to take a photo opportunity (just as well we did at that time).  So we stopped on a perfectly straight piece of road that was miles from anywhere.  The only other person, or vehicle for that matter, anywhere in sight was a female jogger, luckily she was not frightened by us bedecked in our kilts.  She told us about her parents and how they had emigrated from Campbeltown and had moved to NZ many years before – amazing ……. again!!  The photo downloaded (and posted on the blog) is taken with the mountain some 20 miles away.

Mount Taranaki in the Background – we stayed with Lloyd and Jo in their farm at the foot of the mountain – 2.5k mtrs high 

Photo taken we get back into the ‘charabang’, constantly looking at this incredible snow capped mountain, and drove on towards the small town of Opunake where Lloyd was to give us directions to his farm.  A few miles out of Opunake we turn right and we are now driving directly towards the mountain with its unbelievable vista. There is a little cloud but this is adding to the mystique as it floats across and below the snowy peaks and eerily settling around the middle of the mountain.  However the snow capped peak remains easily visible. 

We arrived at the farm which was instantly recognisable by the large Saltire and Welsh flags at the entrance – put there by Jo.  The farm, which has some 300 head of milking cattle, is located just a couple of miles from the foot of Mount Taranaki and can only be described as a dream location.  The volcano is still classed as active although the last eruption was some 250 years ago. Geologically it erupts approx every 200 years so …………….. Norrie thought he had heard it erupt violently in the hotel room a couple of nights before!!!!!

Time was now pressing and following a quick bite to eat we were off to the Wales v Namibia game in New Plymouth.  The match ended up a rout for the Welsh and their considerable following support.  The stadium holds approx 22k with about 15k in attendance.  Sandy was bedecked in Llew’s (Glais) Welsh Top and kilt which the guy next to him was also relieved to have some shelter in it.  Norrie, the Welsh Twat, had forgotten his top (so much for the fanatic) and Sandy was not lending him his.  It is of note that since the Scottish defeat to Argentina Norrie’s accent and phraseology is one of a lifelong Welsh supporter – he is a man with no scruples!! 

The ‘Born Again’ Fanatical Welshman (after Scotland’s Defeat) – at the Wales v Namibia Game with Lloyd Morgan 

Thereafter we were introduced to Jo’s parents who then invited us for a beer to their house.  Well, drink and food were again laid on at their house, which is in an incredible hill top location overlooking New Plymouth.  With spectacular views over the city and the Pacific Ocean from the front and the magnificent Mountain to the rear.  We eventually retired to Lloyd and Jo’s house for the night and on wakening the next morning Jo was insistent on us staying another night.  Not wanting to intrude or be a burden to them we said (I am sure you have guessed it)………………… yes.  Thus it is now midday, we helped with the milking this morning, fortunately fully automated, and Norrie helped to deal with the calves in the barn …………………. next update will record some sort of disaster no doubt.

The Aftermatch Session with the Morgan’s and Jo’s Parents – Sandy Sporting Llew’s Llewellyn Wales Top 

Once farmer Giles (Norrie) returned we were taken out for the day to a look out area at the foot of the mountain and while Sandy would prefer to climb it, Lloyd has advised us not to – something to do with time, danger, snow and Norrie’s level of fitness.  For those interested, it takes approx 6hrs to walk up it. 

We are taken to the park area known as Dawsons Falls which is located at the foot of Mount Taranaki and the base for anyone wishing to make the ascent.  There is an icy cold wind blowing off the snowy peaks but we are suitably attired and are treated to some tasty home cooking that Jo has kindly prepared.  As our picnic lunch is spread out onto one of the tables the Taranki god must be looking down on us, because the clouds quickly clear allowing us some glorious views of its lofty summit.  Lloyd has climbed it several times but even though we pleaded with him he was not willing to take us up – aye – right!!  Of course to record the scene it is necessary for us to take a few snaps of which we are sure big John Gillies, whom Lloyd and Jo are asking for, will appreciate.     

Spot the missing person -John Gillies – AWOL 

Once again, due to a chance meeting with some wonderfully decent people some 6 yrs ago, we have been shown kindnesses not befitting either of us but one we do absolutely appreciate.

We must leave these lovely people to move further north towards Auckland tomorrow but incredibly Lloyd and Jo want us to bring all the guys back here next week.  More updates to follow ……………………….. !I hope you all get a smile from the Haka Video which we have downloaded onto the site – marvellous interactive facility at the Te Papa Museum in Wellington.  I have no doubt it will be repeated with the other guys when they attend next week when we once again find ourselves there.  If there is anyone that met us in Wellington (who is reading this) then we will without doubt be in the Green Man and the Hummingbird every night then too!

Day 21: The Bus

Day 21: The Bus

Posted on September 26, 2011 by Sandy

The next chapter of our escapade involves a bus (which Norrie may mention in the blog today – although I suspect he will not).  We require it to pick up the other six guys from the club coming over on Friday. The bus we collected this morning (Monday) in Wellington is indeed the smallest 15 seater that the world has ever seen – apparently it was cheap. Not all of us may get in unless limbs are left protruding out the windows.

It is circa 1975 and resembles the small caravanette’s which used to sleep 2 folk at a time. An indication of its’ age is the fact that it does not have a CD but rather an 8 track cassette player!!!  Therefore lads, organise a portable CD player for the bus, with speakers!!!!

Another Flowers success story!!!

As I type we are in a place called Patea, in the North Island, and using the internet facilties in the local library – which two young fellows got thrown off by the Librarian (stern, authoritarian lady – but nice) to accommodate us. Now we have been joined by a class of schoolchildren who are very inquistive as to how these guys with ‘skirts’ (kilts) have ended up in their small hamlet.  Apparently we are the most exiting thing to have hit here since ………. well……………nothing has ever hit here.   That said, they are all very polite and have been educated where Glasgow in Scotland is and the travel to get here. Fascinating apparently!!

Now boarding the ‘charabang’ for the next installment of ‘Crouched Travel in a Matchbox’!!

Day 19 & 20: Day after Disaster – England beckons!!

Day 19 & 20: Day after Disaster – England beckons!!

Posted on September 26, 2011 by Sandy

Apologies but we have been rather busy so please excuse us – the last couple of days have been quite hectic.   Saturday morning after a raucous night in the Wellington bars - two in particular, The Green Man and The Hummingbird, will definitely be revisited when the rest of the guys get to town. The weather was again good so sightseeing was on the agenda.  We headed out into the sunny, yet windy, city.

At the Game v Argentine in Wellington 

The New Zealand museum, Te Papa, is a must-see and as we approached it we are again surrounded by a throng of Argentinian supporters who have camped themselves outside the museum and are teaching passers by how to dance the tango.  Needless to say we are roped in very quickly with kilts swirling in the wind we are once more the centre of attention of some curious passers by.

With Some of the Performers After the Show at Te Papa Museum 

We make our excuses to get away and enter the museum. Lucky for us there is a Moari show taking place in the auditorium, which was spectacular. While there we met up with Islay girls whom we had met at Colac Bay, plus Ian ‘Mighty Mouse’ McLaughlan with his lovely wife. Ian is presently the SRU President and someone we have met before on our excursions. Following the show we are persuaded by Elaine, Ian’s wife, to take part in a real ‘Haka’ which was recorded and we hope to be able to download it soon.

With the President of the SRU, ‘Mighty Mouse’, & the Islay girls in Te Papa – Wellington 

We decided to head back to the hotel for a few hours breathing space before the All Blacks game with France; as a couple of hours kip was really appealing.  Literally 50 yds from the hotel two men leap out of a shop doorway arms flaying and shouting at us – thankfully it turned out to be Bill Nolan and John ‘White Shar’ Jeffrey.  Both involved with the IRB which Bill served on for some time and to which JJ is a relative newcomer.  They had just arrived, saw us strolling down the road and, with our observational skills severely hampered after weeks of drunken evenings, we had not seen them – yes, you know what happens now – you’re waaaaay ahead – it’s the Green Man bar again. Several beers later more of our friends are arriving so there is no escape and we accept our fate.

There are other games on before the All Blacks, which we are taking in, but it has been suggested we go to a bar in another part of town which claims to be the only Welsh Bar in the southern hemisphere. Bill and John have also got places to go, so we head off for the Dragon and they go elsewhere - but no doubt will be seeing both of them again.

As described previously The Dragon Bar sits on a centre Island between two roads.  It was formerly a public convenience – yes toilets - and Norrie would be obliged if you refrained from making any comparisons to the Welsh team and that fact. The streets are deserted because when the All Blacks play everyone is either at the stadium or they are indoors watching. The Dragon is buzzing and we are now on the red wine.

There is no need for us to tell you about the game, but needless to say following the ABs win the locals are happy so it’s party time again. Step up the pianist who is belting out the party tunes the place is jumping - there are scores of supporters from various countries; but strangely most of the Scottish support are expats either living in NZ or Australia but hey they are still Scots. The inevitable happens the pianist takes a break and no sooner has he stood up than Sandy has the mike in his hand and the place is bouncing.  The evening progresses and between the Dragon and the Hummingbird we had a brilliant night, making our beds at something like 3am – and the clocks went forward ARRGGGGG.

Sunday morning the weather has changed dramatically and we have lost an hours sleep, so we decide for the first time to use the leisure facilities that we have ignored up to now and what a sound idea it is. The sauna, Jacuzzi and pool are the perfect antidote for our ailments - because we really have to be back on top form for the big game later.

Late afternoon we are revived so we don our Scottish kit and head down in the lift – picture this one – the lift doors open and we are confronted not just with Daniel Carter and Ritchie McCaw but the whole All Black team as they arrive to take up the space left by the exited Ozzies and to prepare for their last group game. The one time we do not have the camera with us but anyway they are great guys. There do not seem to be any airs and graces and they are more than happy to chat with us. Sandy heads away to get the camera but by the time he returns they have all been summoned to their training room in the hotel.

We hope we have not given the impression that there are only two bars in Wellington!!! Norrie’s nephew Rhys is in town and we are meeting him in the Featherstone Bar just around the corner from the hotel. Also in the bar are our friends the Welshs and the Wests (also from Uddingston). Rhys is midway on his world tour, with two of his pals, so Norrie does the catching up with his nephew before we all head off to the ‘Green Man’ to watch the televised game before heading to the ground.

Along with many friends we have met along the way there are other police collegues we meet up with including Chris Pentacost and his lovely partner Michelle. The weather gods are not being kind as it is bitterly cold and wet, ominous messages.  Again we will not comment on the game but needless to say the players will be as (if not more) disappointed than us, but hey we will support them all the way and our heads will be back up to shout them on again next Saturday.

There is nothing for it except back to the ‘Green Man’ (by this time we are all turning green) for a few warming glasses of NZ wine. Because of the late kick off the time is racing by, so following a good few hard luck drinks and many congratulations to our Argentinian friends we eventually get our heads down.

Monday morning and incredibly the sun is again splitting the skies, what did we do to the rugby gods to deliver the previous day’s weather we wonder?  Coming down for breakfast we again meet quite a few of the All Blacks. We wish them luck before we again prepare for our journey north and head off to pick up our transport which we will drive firstly to New Plymouth for the Wales v Namibia game tonight then eventually up to Auckland to meet the guys on Friday.

On route to New Plymouth we have again seen the great evidence of the support of the NZ public for this competition, with flags of all nationalities bedecking business premises, houses, roadsides, walls etc – brilliant to see and something that one could only hope for in Scotland.  Wellington has played a part in absolutely dissolving our livers and undoubtedly we will not drink again this trip ……………….

As a footnote we met a couple of Ozzies in yellow suits who do the exact same thing as us only for an Australian audience. They have made a business out of it. Check them out on www.WallabiesGold.com in which we should be featured at some stage.

With the Aussie Blog Writers Prior to the Oz v USA Game