Thursday, 17 July 2008

Queenstown - Christchurch

Cold start, -5 C, gradually warming up to -1 C. From traveling through the gorge, passing the Hackett Bungy, the original one, to lake Hawea in the morning mist. From there after the first pass beautiful weather, still cold, but very different views again. In wide valleys, even able to make pictures from the back of Mount Cook to the very scenic lake Tekapo.



Soon after that it is rather flat and dull driving to Christchurch. I already had a reservation at the Ibis in the Center of the town, very well located to visit the center, the Canterbury part and some museums.

I am writing this now at my last day in New Zealand. My plain is leaving later this evening so most probably will go out of the city to the banks Peninsula, to check out Akaroa. It's a 1,5 hour drive, so I still have plenty of time. Next message from Amsterdam :-).

About Akaroa:

Just 75 kilometres from the city of Christchurch, New Zealand, Akaroa is an historic French and British settlement nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano.
Explore the village with its colonial architecture, craft stores, and cafés. Relax in the sun at French Bay, or find a secluded beach of your own in one of the neighbouring bays. Go cruising on the beautiful Akaroa harbour, you can choose from a variety of cruises including sailing around the harbour. View the stunning wildife including the Hectors dolphins. Enjoy Akaroa and the harbour for the week, your weekend, or just one day there's an Akaroa Escape to suit your mood.

The beautiful harbour dominates the landscape and is home to a variety of sea and bird life including the worlds smallest and rarest dolphin, the Hectors Dolphin. Take the opportunity to explore this unique environment with one of our local operators.

There are activities for everyone including wildlife cruises, sailing, swimming with the dolphins, boat hire and sea kayaking.
For those in search of relaxation there is nothing more satisfying than lazing on the sand as the family enjoy paddling at the safe beach.

The harbour's edge is home to plenty of activities for those who prefer to stay on dry land. Enjoy farm, outer bay or seal and penguin colony tours or visit one of the neighbouring surf beaches.

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