becandhalNZ: The Welsh's do International House Hunters

Well, yesterday and today were basically dedicated to finding our residence for the next 3 months. We traversed Auckland four different times and looked at some nice places, and one too spectacular to pass up. Not that the house is overly plush or even more than adequate on the inside but the setting is truly spectacular. So we have filled out our rental application, provided three letters of reference from our utility companies and our mortgage company, and await final approval. The process is very straight forward with many controls to ensure the renter is treated well. ALL maintenance must be done by the landlord, even changing light bulbs (not always adhered to we were told). The commitment was done on ones word, not the receipt of a deposit. Yes, apparently ones word and honor still means something at least in NZ. We were also handed one phone number to call to make all the arrangements for utilities. This company then makes all the arrangements and is paid by the utilities which, in turn, don't need as much staff. Novel ideas these Kiwi's have. You will also be pleased to know that I have only turned the wipers on twice to make a turn these two days.

Folks here seem somewhat distance shy. We were told by our wonderful Hostess here where we are staying that Bucklands Beach, where the house we hope to rent long-term is located, would seem to be very remote and isolated. We found it to be an easy 20 minutes drive, and we are still learning how to drive the New Zealand way! Lord it takes us 5 minutes just to get out of Palencia.

Close by Bucklands Beach is a very charming seaside village called Howick. Reminds you a little of Blowing Rock or Winter Park. Nice restaurants, shops, etc. We see spending a lot of time there. We will try posting some pictures of the house, no guarantees. May take a couple of tries.