January 12, 2024
As we docked in Christchurch it was time to say goodby to the friends I made on ship and begin the adventures I had planned in south New Zealand.
Time to explore Christchurch!!
Christchurch, known for its English heritage, is located on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Flat-bottomed punts glide on the Avon River, which meanders through the city centre. On its banks are cycling paths, the green expanse of Hagley Park and Christchurch Botanic Gardens. In 2010 and 2011, earthquakes destroyed many of the historic centre’s stone-built buildings.
After dropping my bags at the hotel I headed off to the trolly stop. Christchurch has restored trolly cars and they are used to explore the city!
The city is still rebuilding from the earth quakes of 2010 and 2011 but the central business district is teaming with activity with lots of shopping, restaurants , street art and green space.
The Avon river runs though the center of the city and one of the must do attractions is punting on the Avon. Punting involves a flat bottom boat guided by a punter with a pole who guides you down the river. Punting was a high society English activity that I saw on Downton Abby and always wanted to try, so of course I did. The drift down the Avon was serene (expect for the 6 year old that kept trying to tip the boat) and David the Punter kept us entertained.
The business district has lots of decorated elephants that are part of a charity campaign so I had to try to find as many of them as I could!! This reminded me of a similar project in South Africa where the animals were Rhinos.
I ended the day with a stroll through the Botanical Gardens.
Tomorrow I begin my land trip to the west coast of the South Island. This is a bit scary as it is on my own using local transportation. Stay tuned!!
I look forward to a glacier update if it still remains. It was receding mightily when Bill and I were there in the 90s.
This trip is so interesting. You go girl!!!!