Mt Taranaki

I actually had a gorgeous plane shot on the tarmac, but this was the chosen blip, for several reasons. Firstly, we did take off, unlike one airline (Jetstar) that grounded all its planes due to the Chilean ash cloud. And secondly, as we were flying at 17 000 ft, instead of 36 (?) the perspective was so different. So, it's somewhat unique for me.

Anyway, what a day. On the plane at 10, heading to Auckland for a funeral, my best mates Dad. And of course, as just said, we had to negotiate an ash cloud.

If funerals can be good, it was. Learnt a lot about Ted, his career in the army, and how dedicated he was to the family. Really nice guy and quite a set of achievements. Very sad to see him go. Funerals aren't easy to go to, but this is my second in recent times, and they do make you think about your friends and family and their importance. In particular also, as the last two have been Dads, it make you think of yours; how important they are to you, the fact you should tell them that, and spend more time with them.

And as the funeral finished, and checked email, as you do, I saw a message from the office to report damage. Oh oh, another bloody earthquake. A 5.5, then a 6 a few minutes later. Very shocked an shaken team, but all OK thankfully. Madness. Lots more damage in Christchurch, when will it end? So then to the RSA for the function, lots of time on the phone and txting to get updates. While in some respects it's good not to be there, in reality you do, so you can help. Frustrating.

Got back to CHC at 9, into the office to check. All seems fine, no power, but water.

Going to be a long day tomorrow.