ChCh, sweet as!

Kia ora! Well, I have found my favourite city in New Zealand, Christchurch (aka ChCh). It is quite English, very old architecture, spacious and green, and exciting things to see and do. I was really pleased to get into ChCh and reconnect with some friends from the trip.

Yesterday was a fab day. The weather was great in the morning so Daniela and I went on the tram to the River Avon (very British) where we went Punting on the Avon. I had wanted to go punting when I was in England but didn't get the chance. So I was super excited to be able to go out on the river. It was very cozy and beautiful floating through th Botanic Gardens. And then Adrien, the punter, gave us a lesson and let us take over punting down the river. A dream come true! And I will brag a little right now - I was amazing! He complimented my skills and punting and said I am a natural. If only there was a calmer and shallow river back home... here I would come punters! It was a favourite activity of mine. Then we continued on our tram tour to the Cathedral. There was a school group singing Christmas songs which finally drove home that Christmas is just around the corner. We then climbed up the 134 steps to the top of the spire bafore heading into the square for lunch. From there I visited the Art gallery, Botanic Gardens and Christ's College. It was a brilliant day and I absolutely love this place. In the evening, we went out to a local pub to have a group farewell as most of us are finished in New Zealand within the next few days. So sad.

Today I went on a drive around the peninsula before getting all my luggage sorted. It is crazy how quickly I can accumulate things. I have gotten up to 5 bags lately (two were just food) and now I have to get it all back to 2 bags. I am proud to say I have managed to successfully pack all my belongings minus a few items not necessary any more. I am getting good at this whole travelling thing.

So tomorrow I leave for Australia. I am quite excited to be spending Christmas and New Years in Oz - it will definately be different. But I am sad that I am leaving New Zealand - it is now my favourite country I have been to. There is just so much to see and do...and it is so beautiful! Hopefully my words have been able to convey just an ounce of I how I feel.

So, we'll chat in Oz where it is sunny and warm!

Love, Lisa