Billie comes to visit Auckland for an epic day on the water....

What a great treat for Phil - a wonderful friend he spent time with in Guatemala came to NZ on an organised trip but immediately deviated from the schedule for a great day with us.

First things first, a quick tour of our patch - Mission Bay Beach (just in front of our house).

 Little did Billie know that when she said she was coming to NZ on a tour, that Phil would devise a crazy kayak adventure...

Phil and I have both been keen to go out to Brown Island which is a volcanic island in the middle of the harbour. As I'm a little incapacitated (with a growing baby bump!), I was volunteered 'safety boat' driver, whilst Billie and Phil had their own sea kayaks. Little did they know that Brown Island would prove to be a rather long kayak away.....

Here is Billie leaving the shelter and comfort of Eastern Beach behind.

Heading along the tip of Bucklands Beach - both Billie and Phil looking impressively strong in their kayaking style.

The final destination- Brown Island - you can just glimpse Rangitoto behind (we can see Rangitoto from Mission Bay)

Just to show i was on the trip too!!!

Arriving at Brown Island - a quick slice of watermelon, and it was back in the kayaks again!

Paddling along...

...singing a song.

It was a long old way...

Auckland CBD in the background..