In the NZ

In a word New Zealand is spectacular.  As we flew in from Sydney we were greeted with an amazing view of the Southern Alps.  We were both very excited to land, and begin our explorations.

After making certain we had no contraband - fresh fruit, food items, etc we cleared customs. New Zealand Customs officials are absolute zealots about making certain that anything that might interfere with their ecosystem is kept out.  The airport is filled with signs about an instant $200 fine if one does not declare what they are bringing into the country.  They even cleaned my hiking boots of mud that was still in the tread.

Our first two days were spent in Christchurch roaming around the Arts Center, touring the Cathedral, and walking among the trees, plants and flowers of the Botanic Gardens.  We even took a punt on the Avon River.

Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island, and is built upon an aquifer.  The water is so pure that we drank from an open spring located in the Botanic Gardens.

On our first evening we stumbled upon a wonderful Thai restaurant, Chinwag Ethai.  We ate at the bar, people-watched, and peppered the poor bartender with endless questions.  The restaurant is so good that Ginny and I already have our reservation for our return to Christchuch on the 13th of April.

After two days in Christchurch we drove north to Hamner Springs.  As the name suggests there are natural springs and thermal baths to soak away one's aches and pains.  It is a popular place because of its proximity to Christchurch - only about 1 hour and 45 minutes drive.  And being Easter Weekend the place is filled to capacity.

We are staying at a wonderful B&B (Mira Monte) a short drive from the center of the village.   

On our first day we hiked, including an ascent to the top of Conical Hill, then had a soak in the hot springs.

Breakfast was DELICIOUS!  Fresh fruit, Hot Cross Buns, pancakes, and plenty of coffee.  Filled to capacity we rented mountain bikes and hit the many trails - all leading back to the village, which means one should not get lost.  Ginny did extremely well gaining confidence with each loop, and only hitting the deck once.  

Tomorrow we leave Hamner Springs and head to the West Coast.  The weather report suggests that the West Coast will have better weather,

 so again we are following Mr. Sun and Mrs. Warm Temperatures.

As we've learned good weather on the West Coast means poor weather on the East Coast, and visa versa.

So that's it for now.  Wishing you all a very happy Easter.

Ginny and Drea

Photo: On top of Conical Hill