We are sitting in the Qantas Lounge, Mike had Lounge envy on our last trip as nearly all the Aussies were disappearing in there  .  We were with all the other passengers, no travellers. Today we have traveller status and are heading off to New Zealand to explore the top part of the South Island. On our last trip across the ditch, our travel companions, who were to meet us at the train station were still asleep. They had a race to get to the train, and we were then all rushing to be through customs and boarding the plane. Mike was horrified as our names were called for last  boarding. This time we arrived early, ate yummy curry and read papers. Much more relaxed start to a short road trip, so  collect your gear and come join us.