A very smooth arrival in New Zealand! I was able just to walk through passport control, the automatic passport ready just accepted mine and the face scanner recognised me! I declared my packet of polos as I went through customs, the dog sniffed me probably thinking I should be rejected. And for once my bag was on the carousel when I went to see in Baggage Reclaim! Bruce arrived at the exit just as I messaged Vicky to say I had beaten him there!

I had a second sleepless night at Hotel Gracery so decided I couldn't risk any more tourism. A big shame as I was looking forward to seeing "teamLab Borderless" (now in Azabudai ), and also this was a rare clear day ideal for going up the Tokyo Skytree. I also missed out on seeing the Giant Ghibli Clock. Sigh. So instead I checked out then caught a taxi to Shinjuku Station's West Exit, and caught the limousine bus to Narita Airport from there. I sat on the wrong side of the coach, the sun was strong. I was at Narita Airport miles too early to even check in, and drop off my main case. Had some more tempura at First Class Rice which was well presented. Bought some Japanese sweets which made it through New Zealand biosecurity. Converted my remaining yen to NZ dollars. Boarding for NZ94 at Gate 42 was delayed half an hour already due to lateness of incoming flight, I did manage to doze a little. On the flight we had white blankets which made the plane look like a hospital waiting room. Air New Zealand kindly had the Japanese films subtitled, I watched Fable and The Confidence Man JP to pass the time. In the toilet I pressed the wrong button to flush and instead had to explain to a stewardess there was no problem! I asked for water and they offered snacks as well very welcome.

A second trip to New Zealand overdoing it on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and seeing the volcanic White Island.

My first trip to New Zealand taking in both North and South Islands. A memorable place to see! I would almost rather live there than Britain!