Harrison and Lilly weren’t very impressed with the small 737 jet that took us to Auckland.
I explained that when it takes off, our plane weighs about 45 tonnes. By comparison Oriana has a grt of 65,000 tonnes. Over 1,000 times heavier.
Both kids wanted a window seat but only one was available, so they tossed a coin and Lilly got the window seat for take off and Harrison for landing.
I’ve set them an “assignment” to do during this adventure which includes taking photos from the air and finding out facts about New Zealand and the ship. I’ll upload one or two if I get a chance.
He may not be the world’s best reader, but I think he’s the world’s best grandfather. “Glandan” (Bruce) read this bedtime story to the kids a few years ago, and we were lucky enough to film it. Contrary to what dad says, the monster in the story is a “Gruffalo”. It’s a delightful story by Julia Donaldson which is available at