Best for last?

I could have staid in Christchurch the last day, but that's not me doing nothing or almost nothing the last day, so as written I decided to go to Akarao. And what a decision it was. Getting out of the flat of Christchurch into the hilly peninsula with stunning views and deceptive mist was a joy to ride and especially the last 20 Km or so give spectacular views over the bays ending in Akaroa itself.

I arrived just before a harbour cruise started and decided to take this last activity. Getting out of the harbour and into the Pacific Ocean gave some new views, like dolphins, sea lions, Albatros birds and the smallest penguins on earth. Although cold and very windy this 2 hour trip was a very nice ending, although .....

I took one of the Tourist Roads back. And although this is much longer it was one of the best scenic viewing experiences I ever had, maybe even the best. It is a narrow road winding through the hills and most of the time on top of those. Sometimes scary as you want to enjoy the view as the driving experience. These two do not match :-), as any wrong move can end in a disastour as there are literally no fences or whatsoever. Any mistake can end your life. This is really an overwhelming ride and experience. So for eveyone planning on going to New Zealand, this is a defenitiv must see and experience.

After almost two hours I arrived at the airport, no one from the rental company available, so someone on the phone told me to just drop the keys behind the counter. Something you can not do in Amsterdam as the car will be stolen in seconds. In New Zealand that is a bit different. Although there are many issues and seems to be a violent country in many aspects, stealing of cars in not on top. It is also difficult to ship cars of course out of the country which happens in Europe a lot.

First flight was fast and empty, from Christchurch to Auckland there were only around 30 persons in the plain. From Auckland to Shanghai I still had three chairs, giving me ample of rest and some sleeping possibilities. From Shanghai it was over with the fun, totally booked plain, with crying children. Almost 30 hours in the plain and waiting in between. But now one day later I feel ok, no jetlag and even had my 50th Birthday party with more friends then expected. Monday back to work .... great experience it was!