For all the discombobulation of Christmas in the southern hemisphere, having a spot of good weather does seem to boost festivities. After much procrastination on the part of weather forecasters, they did in the end promise a sunny day for the Wellington region which was perfect for our Christmas ritual to rustle wrapping paper before giving the bassets a sprint on the beach.  Such was the heat this morning it was more of a doddle and a waddle but nevertheless a stroll to be savoured.

We were pleased to reach Paekakariki before the crowds although there were a few families doing the kiwi equivalent of the towels on the loungers around the pool.  People were carefully selecting their territories for family picnic and unloading trailers of gazebos, sun umbrellas and gas barbeques.  Not to mention paddle pools, goal posts and cricket wickets for that most important and highly competitive family sports entertainment.

In the absence of our own families, we like our Christmas Day a little more laid back.  Time to lounge around and truly be on holiday.  With the temperatures heading to 28 degrees Celcius the bassets are done for and will spend their day searching for the coolest spot in the house.  Although as I write this a stinky black cloud is passing over head sprinkling a few raindrops and a rumble of thunder.

It was a rare thing of beauty to be able to see the South Island so clearly at the coast. The Pohutukawa (also known as the NZ Christmas tree) were blooming scarlet red bringing a touch of bling to the beach on this special day.  Otherwise it was business as usual.  Fortnum paddling and Mason running away from the waves as they gently rolled across his path.  Both bassets sniffing every grain of sand and seeking out nasty flotsam that they can roll in. Casual callings of Happy Christmas to fellow dog walkers.  Mason was also particularly determined to avoid the camera either out-running me or completely disengaging.  Although I did actually to sneek a closer view of him using one of my rather special Christmas presents.

Wherever you are, whatever the weather and whatever your plans for celebrating the holidays we hope you have a peaceful and relaxing time.  Not to mention some special Christmas wining and dining.

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