Tonga to NZ - We Made It

After posting yesterday's update the wind abated and the seas calmed down, there was even a rainbow to cheer us on.  We dodged several big squalls, motor sailing through the night into a decreasing southwest wind.  4:00am this morning found us only about five miles from the main waterway leading to the marina and customs dock so we had to slow down to let the sun rise before going in.  As we were entering the marina who was there to welcome us but Karen and friends Don and Deb from the boat Buena Vista.  It was great to see them (especially Karen).  

We pulled the boat into the custom's dock, which has a gate through which you can not go until you've been cleared by both customs and quarantine.  So while waiting for the officials to arrive I talked with Karen through the gate - as if she were visiting a prisoner.   But the guys arrived and cleared is into the country, hugs were had, and Karen was able to deliver some dark beer (which is very hard to find on the south pacific islands).  Then it was out for lunch.  Now we are in the town of Wrangarei (about 20 miles fromt he marina where Sockdolager is) where a hot shower, another meal out, and a sexellentadventure are the next orders of business.  It sure is great to be here.   There is nothing like being on land again after a long passage.  And you know, in this motel room hot fresh water comes right out of the faucet!

Tom was great.  He made the trip fun and his ability and willingness to cook a meal in almost any conditions was truly amazing.   

What's next?  Relax, enjoy the amenities of the developed world, and visit with other cruiser friends; then we'll figure out where the next step will take us.

I will try to post some photos in the next day or two.