Culture alert, yes I went along to a cultural event (well there was grub as well). Mrs Fogg booked a “traditional” (made for visitors at a cost of 200NZD for the both of us), evening of understanding the Maori culture, with greetings, dance, song, Haka and food.

Being the cultural guru that I am (think Les Patterson except drunker and that is getting close), I can tell you I was not actually looking forward to it. You have to remember Mrs Fogg dragged me to a similar Hopi Indian event in Arizona (minus the food) and it was the worst thing either of us had been to (well besides a time share meet and greet).

I was surprised, it was well presented and the people actually believed what they were saying and doing, so passion did show through. All told it was a very good evening, nice heap of food and good company too. I now feel culturally enlightened and did I mention the food?

We decided to go for a stroll when we came back but were advised not to by the hotel owner to prevent being mugged (eek) or murdered like someone was last week, ok that’s nice then.

And now a little hassle the B&B in Hawkes Bay have emailed to say they have double booked (nice considering we confirmed in Oct), so we are rapidly replanning.