Your update is greatly appreciated, David. After hearing of some continued, strong aftershocks, I called Tauck to see if our stop in Christchurch is still a "go." Tauck reported things are going as scheduled with no real issues reported from tour groups there now.

Three weeks from today - New Zealand!!! First stop for us - 4 days in Bay of Islands!! All tours in Bay of Islands, set; TranzAlpine excursion, set! I snagged some great tour discounting and 2-for-1 fares for TranzAlpine! Let the countdown begin!