PK goes nuts over Kiwis

Instalment 2 of Paul's travels down under...

Stayed at 'The Crown Hotel' in Napier for two nights on recommendation of Kelly a waitress in The Chamber restaurant in Waihi. Met Paul Handsome busking in the town. He is a larger than life character of Maori origin with a beautiful voice playing a Cort guitar, a budget box sold in NZ.

Got down to Wellington on a spacesaver tyre after discovering a puncture in my nearside rear, 320Km at 80Kph max all the way. Phoned ahead to the Acoustic Roots club to see if I could do some singing. Garard and Ruth, the hosts, offered me a three song floor spot at the concert on Sunday and also a bed for the night. Got to Wellington (Lower Hutt) about 4pm. Saw the sights of Wellington and sang 'Francis & Mary', 'Pastel Shade Pearl' and 'New Orleans' for them and they were well received.

Back to Lower Hutt and we all sat up swapping songs and drinking beer. Garard is a big fan of Richard Thompson and did mostly his songs.

Monday my hosts went to work as I explored Wellington, then onto the boat to Picton, South Island.

BTW Keith Donnelly is staying with them tonight (Tuesday) as he completes his North Island tour prior to coming to the South, he's doing some with Gilly Darbey.

Also Enda Kenny is playing the Canterbury FF over Easter.

Also The Aardvark Band and Pete Grassby stay with them when they are in NZ

I'll try and arrange to bump into both of them if I can.

Stayed Monday night outside Picton at a lovely Farmstay. Now I am here in Christchurch staying at Pomeroy's, a superb pub and B&B ten minutes walk from the city centre. Must get back as they are having an Irish Session tonight and I said I would join in.

Bye for now. BTW it is hot here, the food, the scenery and the Kiwi's are all wonderful.

PK