Yes I finally got my wallet out and paid for the engagement ring.  Sam’s dad, Keith, will be well pleased I’m sure .  He had hinted that Sam buy the biggest rock in the shop .

We had selected a ring in Auckland and it was to be sent to Wellington for us to collect but the jewellers cocked it up and there was nothing there when we arrived.  As you can imagine we were a little hot under the collar and the manager’s lame excuses did nothing to control our frustration.  Not wanting to ruin the special occasion we asked to see some more rings and as look would have it they had an identical style to the one we previously selected but with a larger diamond and encased in a platinum band.  We were both smitten and agreed this was it as long as we could negotiate a reasonable price.  I’m not sure the manager was quite expecting such hardened professional hagglers and in the end gave up and agreed to the discount we requested just to get us out of the shop.  As tourists we are entitled to a 12.5% GST (government standard tax) discount but it meant we have to wait and collect the ring at the airport upon departure.

We did try and take some macro shots to show you the detail but our ever reliable camera just wouldn’t focus.  I think you’ll agree that the smile on Sam’s face pretty much says it all.