1st of June - Officially it's Winter in NZ

It's a glorious day to mark the first day of winter in NZ.  Compared to the past few days when it was gloomy, rainy and biting cold, today's official start of winter is sunny and bright.  The winter season is from June to August.  I arrived here nearly 6 years ago in the middle of winter.  Even back then, I already experienced what is known as '4 seasons in 1 day.'  Adding layers of clothing is advisable during this time of the year.

Today is also part of what Kiwis call a long-weekend that ends on Monday to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II's birthday.  The shops in the malls are doing brisk business with the numerous sales and discounts because of the Queen's birthday tomorrow.