I made it!! I have now spent my first night in New Zealand. It was quite the journey getting here, but no troubles were met on the way and everything went very smoothly.
Upon arriving at Air New Zealand’s counter in LAX, I was met with a very Hobbity welcome. The whole area was decked to make it look like you were at Bag End! I admit, the people behind the counter had mixed looks of confusion as I stood there snapping photos.
The Air New Zealand flight was truly the best flight I’ve ever been on, and I didn’t even get a window seat. That would be because the airline supplied us with a ton of entertainment to occupy the 12+ hours we had before us. I’m talking all three of The Lord of the Rings films and The Hobbit video production diaries, not to mention a super thick complementary Hobbit magazine – complete with a beautiful fold out featuring Thorin and Co!!
Once we landed in Auckland, we were greeting by Dwarven arches and Middle-earth welcome signs, as if we needed any more excitement.
We met up with our amazing tour guide, Mike, and were shuttled off to our hotel, where we were able to leave our bags so we could explore Auckland. It was a lovely day! Sunny, warm, and just the right amount of breeze.
In the evening we all came together for our welcome dinner, where we met and talked with Ian Brodie. Guys, it couldn’t have been any better. It was such a wonderful first day in New Zealand!
I’d love to write more, but guess what?? I’m heading to HOBBITON today, and I’ve got to get ready so I don’t keep the group waiting. Hope you enjoyed this little update, I’ll be sure to write again with I have wifi so I can tell you all about Hobbtion.
Cheers from Auckland!
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