It's been tough to finish up in the office this past week with Dunedin turning on the holiday weather in large doses. Between the beautiful swell that graced the beaches on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and the impromptu barbecues and social occasions taking place at every watering hole around the city there hasn't been much real work done.
 
You only had to wander past the Octagon bars from midday onward on any given day in the lead up to Christmas to see the festive spirit in full force. I love that about Dunedin people – we know how to work very hard, but we love to party hard as well.
 
I hope your Christmas was as good as mine: lots of beach time in the sun and fun times with family and friends. It's a shame we don't have more opportunities throughout the year to take the day off and dine, drink and play with our closest friends and family. Maybe that should be on your New Year resolution list?
 
We spent Boxing Day at Brighton Beach with the family and we could have been in Sydney or Hawaii for the clarity of the water and the warmth of it. Boardies and bikinis were out in force – what a magical place to wile away yet another pristine day.
 
We have the camping gear packed and will be heading to some stunning part of the Catlins coast for a few days before New Year's eve – I hope your holiday time is being spent somewhere close to the coast or up in Central. Wherever you are travel safe and make the most of your time away from the daily grind.
 
See you at the beach!