THE KIWI CREW: Haarlem, Tuesday 13th of April

As Chris said below we are having a fantastic time. It’s hard to believe that we are now half way into the trip. Time has passed so quickly. The program which the Haarlem team put together for us really has been awesome.

Last Saturday was a free day so we girls knew exactly how we would be spending it – shopping! Chris had fun getting a whipping on the golf course while Kepal watched his host daughter’s hockey game. That night some of the team got together to experience the Haarlem nightlife and from all reports it’s good times. The girls dominated the dance floor and Kepal was impressed that beers are only Euro 2.50 and how friendly the Dutch ladies are!
Monday was a vocational day which everyone seemed to enjoy. That evening we were at a golf club for a Rotary meeting where we gave our well groomed presentation with Sonya receiving the first applause over Chris yet again. I think the Haka successfully scared the other golfing patrons.

Today’s program has been focused around the sea. To begin with we had a tour of the Sea Museum and learnt all about the massive construction of the North Sea Canal. Following this we were lucky enough to have a fantastic ride on one of the sea rescue boats. Although the boat is not used these days for rescuing (its 40 years old with a top speed of 9 knots) it was good fun all the same. Kepal was thrown over board in a dry suit while Shanna successfully executed a daring move of jumping onto another rescue boat while in rough weather and at speed.
After a lovely lunch at a canal-side restaurant we had a tour on one of the canal tug boats. Passing though one of the big locks we also all had a turn of driving and testing out its maneuverability. Top day!

One day left to go which will be spent at Corus, the massive steel manufacturing plant. It will be sad to say goodbye to everyone but of course there’s lots of exciting things ahead of us.

Over in out
Philippa