We arrived in Christchurch (South Island's capital) after a 14 hour flight, via Sydney, from Buenos Aires - why we had to touch down in Australia, since it is further away, only Quantas Airline can explain. The contrast between the Aussie and Kiwi immigration 'welcome' was stark - (OZ-nul points!) Needless to say, we were exhausted and kept sleeping at odd times during the days that followed, before we found our equilibrium. To give you some idea of the time difference, we were 20 hours ahead of America, where we'd just left!
Landing in Christchurch is like discovering an Isle of Wight metropolis in the 1970s. So of course we prioritised the botanical gardens and museum where we toured around on their hi-tech bicycles.
Once out of town, we marvelled at the stunning scenery of the South Island, but were always expecting Orks to appear over the horizon!
13 December
After Christchurch, a French influenced town called Akaroa -
after the first French settlers in New Zealand. Set in a picturesque harbour, it contrived a mediterrranean ambience.
Managed to get Irene's portrait done in neo-classical style.
14 December
On our way to the north of South Island, we stayed in a log-built, ranch style studio (Riverside Farm) in Motueko, run by a couple who had emigrated from UK (Robin & Gaynor). Robin farms deer and made us a delicious venison supper.
Here's a typical bridge en route to Hamner Springs where we bathed in some of their natural, hot spas. Sadly we have no pics to show you of us getting in and out of the mostly 37 degree pools!
No comments:
Post a Comment