About 10 club members enthusiastically boarded the mini bus that had been hired from a firm that we always use without incident.

Off we went and as we rose up the slope to the oaks layby at the top of the Poukawa straight the van faltered and let out a sizable backfire. We pulled in under the oaks to investigate. Things smelt very hot. On getting the motor exposed we found the top radiator hose disconnected. Brian became head mechanic and everyone else offered advice. Once the radiator filler cap was off we had to wait till the motor cooled a bit so we could put water in. Several scouted around looking for water while trying to keep the good shoes clean. The best place was a few deep puddles where we scooped up clean water with old discarded drink bottles. Just as well travellers are not very tidy people!! The first water in was immediately turned to steam and filled the van, as the motor was too hot. As night ascended we got the hose on, radiator filled from a chain gang of water collectors and off we went an hour late. With everyone watching the temperature gauge we arrived in Waipukurau to the relief of our hosts who thought we had been abducted by aliens.

A great night followed with drinks and a wonderful pot luck dinner provided. During the evening Clive from CHB club organised a blind wine identification competition. Four whites and four reds were presented and we had to identify the variety of each. Sounds easy but when done blind its more of a task. Yours truly and a CHB member, sorry Ive forgotten your name, drew, so a taste off of two beers was put up. With some luck yours truly won and is the proud holder of Delores the inter club completion trophy we strive to win at our socials. Many thanks to our neighbours and as always are great hosts.

WE returned home without incident!