Wind and rain

The weather this winter so far has had major impact on telecommunications. A few weeks back, a major storm had an impact both in Auckland City, and also northwards. My mother-in-law has an alarm to call the ambulance; it works through the telephone system. Large parts of Snells Beach were cut off as a result of the storm, and m-i-l (plus almost another 100 similarly placed individuals) had a non functional alarm. Initially, the telecom companies were casually talking of two to three weeks to restore service. The resultant protests produced action within a couple of days.
When we arrived at the Beachhouse on Friday night, it was to find ourselves with no functional telephone connection. Therefore, no internet. I did post a blip on Friday (via iPad), but didn't manage one yesterday. We came back to the city early for daughter C's birthday, and I backblipped for yesterday. 
Shortly after we arrived at the apartment, having driven back in sunshine, a fierce squall temporarily obscured the Herne Bay ridge. By the time I got my camera, the rain was a little less dense, and the apartment towers are visible as grey eminences. The palms in a nearby backyard were being blown horizontal.
Out to Swanson to enjoy the cake that S had made for C, and to have a relaxing time with family. Back home to prepare for the week ahead.