Day One of the World Cup

The boys were extremely excited about today and were wanting to have a photo taken with the All Black's flag first thing in the morning!  Will work on their loyalties to the english flag!  We had a fantastic day at school as the whole school was brimming with a world cup atmosphere with colourful outfits and facepainting.  It was topped off with Sir Brian Lochore, ex-All Black captain and coach of NZ when they were the world cup winners in 1987, visiting to talk to the staff and the children.

We wanted to go to Devonport for the opening ceremony fireworks but unfortunately the transport system collapsed under the strain of 100,000 people arriving from overseas.  After sitting in traffic for 45 mins and moving about three feet, the children started moaning so it was time to a do a U turn.  Fortunately we knew of another possible location to see the fireworks in Birkenhead where another smaller ferry heads to Auckland.  It was a great choice as it was quiet with a play area and so we were able to hang out there for a couple of hours with Duncan and Katrina.  Oli and Tom were happy being chased by Zoe and Jorja while Alex was happy to disappear with mummy and Karina for an hour and half to get some fish and chips.  It was a beautiful night, perfect for the awesome firework display which to see being performed over entire city was a sight to behold.