Now that my voice has returned, my eyelids no longer need to be prized open due to overexertion, and my wallet is securely fastened, I can gather my thoughts and reflect on the past six weeks.

What an awesome six weeks that was.  The hosting of the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand certainly brought fans, family, friends and strangers together to embrace the world of rugby with symphonic orchestration.

Am I an avid rugby fan? I am now, let's say. I think many would join me to say that while not a self proclaimed 'rugby-head' at the beginning of September, the atmosphere and seeing the city come-alive with so much vigor, it was hard not to be drawn into the epicenter!

In previous years I would have been happy to be in the kitchen during a test match with the other rugby-widows.  These past few weeks however, I found myself not only willingly partaking in the Opening Night mayhem, Fan Trail experience, Fan Zone enthusiasm, Finals Night craziness through to the finale of the Queen Street Victory Parade, but instigating half of it too!

And who couldn't feel the excitement with all the colours, the costumes, the songs spilling from the lips of enthusiastic supporters.  The good-sporting nature of opposing team supporters enjoying the atmosphere with friendly banter, was very refreshing. No argy-bargy shoving and profanities thrown at any stage, seen with my eyes anyway.

Auckland City came alive, as did all the cities around New Zealand.  I haven't personally witnessed the pure passion shown from young and old, since our last America's Cup win. 

Well done Martin.  Good on you John.  Richie and the boys, thank you.  Nice to see you smile Graham. You're a clever bunch of blokes. We're pretty proud of ya.