Sevens With Altitude

Last month, Queenstown hosted the national Sevens 'With Altitude', and, once again, the weather was stunning. If anything it was almost too hot as there is little shade at the ground, and we had to go and find some air-conditioning at one point. That's not a big complaint; that would be churlish - the rest of the event was generally excellent.

I'm afraid I don't actually know who most of these players (or even teams) are - but here are some pictures of the action on the second day.

 

The Southland jersey I do recognise

Likewise Taranaki

Otago and Canterbury

Otago played (and narrowly lost to) Auckland in the final. They lined up on the pitch before the match and they were joined by the Sevens With Altitude committee and Scooter's parents, for an emotional minute's silence.

Scooter put a lot into organising this event and loved watching the game. This year's tournament was dedicated to him, 'now looking down from the best seat in the house'. Hope you enjoyed it Scoot - I miss you every day.

Week 10: Line up, up North

I've been up in Auckland on a trip for work. Staying in a tiny apartment in the middle of town I was kept awake all night by the sound of the generator or air conditioning or whatever it was. This is the view from the window. Look at all those lines! It's enough to bring on a headache.

And speaking of lines, here are some more; natural and otherwise. A sub trip up to Dargaville takes me through kumara country where honesty boxes and hedges line the roads.

If this isn't enough to put you off a town, I don't know what is!

Meanwhile, back in Auckland, the weather has gone grim. I worked my thirds and triangles to take this shot of Rangitoto Island. Usually this is shown as a sunny vista with blue skies and white sandy beaches, so I love this brooding aspect.

This is the 'script cupboard' where Auckland Theatre Company keep their secrets. Flash isn't it?