Here we are, sitting on the hard at Norsand Boatyard in Whangarei town. The trip up the river from Marsden Cove Marina went without a hitch despite the poor visibility and constant drizzle. It took a long time to haul Falbala out of the water but they got there in the end. The people at the yard are very nice. The owner even gave us a lift back to Marsden (about 25mn) to retrieve our car.

 

The hull was covered with slime with a few growth of various types here and there and some oyster shells stuck on the propeller. But all in all it was not too bad considering the Pacific crossing and the year sitting in the water at Marsden.

 

At the yard here, they don't paint antifoul on the hull but spray it on which is a lot quicker. So if their prices are reasonnable we will have it done. That will save us a lot of dirty and hard work.

 

We got an invitation yesterday from our friends Peter and Robyn in Christchurch to attend their wedding on December 16th. We are thrilled for them and are excited to go. We will leave the boat here in the hard and drive down to the South Island. It will give us the opportunity to do some sightseeing and be there in plenty of time for Christmas with Aimee and family.

 

Weather still not great but at least there is no rain at the moment. Time to go for a run!

 

Will post photos tomorrow.

 

Bye for now!