Chris Hallward « Follow that Fire Engine

Day 162: Doomed

12/26/10 by Chris Hallward | Expedition Updates, Stage 6 : New Zealand | 2 Comments »

We’re getting up at half five? On boxing day? OK then. And this is how it has generally been on Stage 6. Who needs sleep? We can do that later. The journey today is a biggy: Kaiteriteri to Picton and then on to the Tongairio National Park (for Lord of the Rings geeks – Jamie – that is where Mount Doom is). We’re looking at a travelling time of about 14hrs. Good job we didn’t celebrate Christmas too hard Smile with tongue out . Thank you South Island, action packed adventures in beautiful and dramatic landscapes.

Kate and I only have three days left? How quick was that. Feeling a bit melancholic as I write this, and thinking about the highlights my thoughts return to the good times with the Stage 6 crew. I think we have worked really well as a team with a lot of laughs and banter. Good natured banter, with the exception of an outrageous wide call by Steve during beach cricket on Christmas day. Thankfully we lost the ball, which saved me ruining the day with my petulance. Read more →

Day 157: The Fear Fun Factory

12/21/10 by Chris Hallward | Expedition Updates, Stage 6 : New Zealand | Comments Off on Day 157: The Fear Fun Factory

Caveat: Although we are raising money for three fantastic charities: MacMillan Nurses, The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation and the Fire Fighters Charity, we are also trying to make this loads of fun. Plus 100% of all money raised goes to the charities as this trip is self funded.

Fun: enjoyment, amusement, or light-hearted pleasure.

Fear: an unpleasant emotion caused by the threat of danger, pain, or harm.

If you wanted to pick somewhere for the extremes of both of the above emotions, the best place in world is Queenstown. My name is Chris Hallward, I have vertigo and this is my story.

Day 153 : Fishy Steve No.2

12/17/10 by Chris Hallward | Expedition Updates, Stage 6 : New Zealand | Comments Off on Day 153 : Fishy Steve No.2

Taupo to Wellington

The Good: Mitchel Johnson

The Bad : Mitchel Johnson

The Ugly: Mitchel Johnson

We’re settling into stage 6 now and rolling on down to Wellington today, 6+hrs on the road. Kate and I are quickly into the routine now, assuming our daily roles with with the enthusiasm of a new kid at school. Me navigation and Kate comms.

Fast fact about Taupo: Home to New Zealand’s largest lake which was formed in the Caldera of a Volcano which erupted 26,500 years ago. The lake covers 619 SqKm, has 32 rivers feeding it and is world famous for trout fishing with crystal clear waters. I like fishing.