Cousin Thomas’ Trip (and glorious glorious victory)

Had an absolutely amazing long weekend with my cousin Thomas. He cashed in a bazillion air miles and flew 1st class from London to NZ. Ridiculous stories of caviar, champagne, masseuses (in the 1st class lounge) etc. etc. More importantly, he arrived with a bottle of Ard Beg (Whiskey) and a scrabble trophy itching to be back with its rightful owner.

Thomas arrived on the Thursday – and the next morning we were off South to Queenstown. Stopped off at the frighteningly delicious Macs Fish & Chip shop in Ashburton. It really is the best F&C I’ve had in NZ – and that’s saying something. I, unfortunately, didn’t take as many pictures as I should have, but that night we met up with John (a Kiwi friend of Thomas’ working in Geneva), and his friend Simon (a nice Australian, and that too is saying something ;) hehe, ehem. John was having a very low-key wedding, and he kindly invited me to join in the festivities. So, the Friday night was really John’s stag. Beers were drunk, meat was eaten, and laughs (a plenty) were had. It was probably the most civilised stag night ever (certainly there was no trip to Accident & Emergency for me this time)

Friday we drove from Queenstown to Wanaka (just an hours drive) and I introduced Thomas to Cinema Paradiso which is Wanaka’s boutique cinema. We watched Toy Story 3.. and I must say – I *loved* it. Really really excellent film.

Then we had John’s wedding. It was a brilliant evening. Just immediate family and friends wrapped up in the joyous occasion and with ample quantities of excellent wine and food.

Saturday it was off to Treble Cone at first light. It was quite a misty day and I was irritated to find that Thomas was a far far better skier than I was border. All those years in Geneva finally paying off.

Still, I had my revenge. And it was sweet sweet revenge. I reclaimed the Scrabble trophy from Thomas’ hands.

Much like Sauron’s ring, the cup longed to be with its rightful owner. Long may it last.

Sunday it was back to Treble Cone again, this time with John&Shelley and Simon. It was a much better day conditions wise. I did find that TC is not remotely beginner friendly. Skiers and boarders whizz by on all sides – basically expecting that you’re going to be OK. I really don’t like drivers tailgating – and it’s just as bad (or worse) on a ski field. I even shouted at one person behind me. They were told.

Thomas and I, and John and Thomas.

And a picture of Thomas zipping down the slope.

All too soon it was time to head back to ChCh. This time, as we’d had a huge dump of snow in the meantime, the landscape was white as far as you could see. Really beautiful.

A fantastic trip all round really. Just a shame that it had to end. Still, can look forward to defending my title at Christmas ;)