What about havin a motorway user pays system similar to Melbourne? Charge people more during peak times (or just any time) dependant on what part of the road/motorway is used.

That report is a very sad indictment of Aucklands transport solutions. I for one would gladly pay more petrol tax to dump cars and use public transport. Something similar to Singapores MRT would suit Auckland I would say, especially if it were subsidised by increasing the petrol tax so that it made travelling to work by car unattractive. I guess you've got flow on costs associated with higher petrol prices but what's another answer?

I was duly typing away on my work PC when I felt a little shudder. At first I thought it was my imagination untill a couple of colleagues came to ask me if I felt it? Certainly did albeit in a, hmm did that just happen or do I need another cup of something kind way.

Wow, cool story. My mates dad was SAS and is now over there working for a 'security firm'. He earns truckloads apparently but my mate says it's not really the money that he's there for. It's good but he was saying it's more that he is respected and is valued for his knowledge and his experience whereas back here he is a nobody and his experience counts for little.

OMG that was quite a thrilling game!! I thought we really had a chance, even after the rain came and stopped play. Oh well they mostly played well and that was a terribly high total they had to chase so all in all a great game :)

Ummmmmm was that on TV?

Spent yesterday playing petanque, tennis and Kubb on the in-laws backyard in Cambridge. Had a fabulous dinner and a few glasses of wine before opening all the pressies. YAY! My daughter got 5 books and I only got 3....................some sulking in the corner from me.

Up at 0340 to shower and jump in the car. Start work at 0600 in Auckland so better skedadle. At work now till 1230 than it's over to my sisters for Christmas dinner with a few other orphans. Due to my sister being 18 I imagine beer and chips but i'm keen to be be surprised :)

Up at 0600 on Boxing morning to jump back in the car and head down to Tairua to the bach and a few festive ales. I'll steal the kayak and the cray pot for tomorrow.

Day after Boxing it's all in the car again and just around the corner to Cook's beach where we'll set up camp for the remainder of the holiday. Cricket, beer, NY and friends.

Maybe i'll need a holiday from my holiday when I get home.

Keep safe everyone :)