Auckland, The Bunker and Heading North Again!

Leaving the 4 String Festival was an extended effort as I had to say goodbye, and see you next year to all these super crazy musicians.

I was invited to perform at Auckland’s “The Bunker” 

down on the top of Mt Victoria in Devonport, which was very exciting! 

So off I head up State highway 1.

In Devonport, obviously the real estate boom is equally going full bore here too, with every property in this shop window sold. Who would have thunk it during Lockdown.....not me that’s for sure!

I thought I’d get some practise down at the Ferry Terminal,

A high percentage of people wearing masks

This busk was notable for its wild weather and the fact that my 1935 saxophone case

 broke one of its two catches.

It was a surete thing...eventually after all this time!

Here is Jason and Rex on the top of Mt Victoria

On a wet Auckland evening.

The bunker is an actual World War 2 bunker.

It’s quite an experience just getting into the bunker

Where we hunkered down for a great nights entertainment!

And once inside, it doesn’t disappoint!

Setting up for the evening, this place really does have a forgotten era feeling to it! 

Apparently it’s been the home of the Auckland Folk Club for 40 years

As the magazines just laying around show!

Still setting up for tonight’s show!

A well travelled violin case...

The concert begins....very well attended mostly a grey haired audience.

It’s probably not very often they have juggling

 to the Irish tune “The Foggy Dew”

The night time Auckland view even in the rain is well worth viewing!

 I also sampled the famous Auckland traffic....

man it sure makes me appreciate living in the south

 and all the biking I do at home!

This is Carbatec...the Woodworking tools shop in South Auckland

They are waiting for a couple of containers to arrive and restock after Covid 19 delays

However I had a good look around seeing many tools not seen before 

and flashing my plastic fantastic around a little....

While I was there a woman shoplifter complete with large overcoat 

visited and helped herself to $2000 worth of carving tools.

Back at Whangaparaoa, my Brother-in-Law, dishes up another masterpiece

A Shepard’s pie ...no Shepard’s were harmed in it’s creation...bah the way.

I’m sorry...when I see beauty where ever it is I just have to take photos.

It’s my own version of my many positive addictions....

I reckon!

 Another lovely walk with cameras along Matikatea Beach, produced these photos.

This chunk of Rock is called Fishermans Cap

 With its more famous bigger brother Rangitoto in the background.

Gawd......somebody has spilled green paint on these rocks

How bizarre!

 I visited Paul Jonson and handed in both of my ukuleles 

for him to work some magic on them.

He has a very serious addiction problem...see below

(LOL)

Totally ligit...as some of them he sells

And the tools department....

Good one.....NZ sign solutions

 Eventually I escaped the traffic, avoiding the toll road north going via Orewa.

(Scotsman’s habits are strong and habitual)

Ok that’s enough for today..

The sun outside is calling my name

Bye for now!

Take care, be safe and be creative