Christchurch and Beyond

Kara and I arrived safely in Christchurch, where we have been settled for the past 2 months-ish. We both found cleaning jobs at a hostel where we cleaned in exchange for free accommodation. We then got promoted to working reception and now get to live there in our own apartment for free. It's a nice set up and Christchurch has been a great place to live and to enjoy the rest of our holiday. Before I dive into our first few days here, I thought I would flashback to the Nelson Lakes. Our friend Daryl had a couple of pictures of us at the lakes that we recently got from her, so here they are. Thanks Daryl!

Kara and I with our friends at the Nelson Lakes
From left: Daryl, Me, Paul, Kara, Dave

Very vibrant mushrooms we came across on our hike around the lakes.
Hopefully you can see it.

Apparently we missed the memo on bringing our funny hats.
Good thing Dave remembered.

Dave modeling his chicken hat.
He's so cocky.

After arriving in Christchurch, we took a day trip to Banks Peninsula and stopped at Akaroa. About 75K from Christchurch. Akaroa is a nice, exotic little town with harbor and dolphin cruises, cafes, and other touristy shops. It was a beautiful place to wonder around and relax for the day.

You could literally step out of your car and into the water.

Many boats in the harbor.

The weather was great!

Kara and the bay being all pretty.

Just another photo op.

A view of Akaroa.

Walking around town.

Tree hugger, literally.
I love palm trees.

Akaroa at sunset.

Christchurch is known for being the most English of New Zealand's major cities and is also the gateway to the south island. It has many free activities including the Canterbury museums and art galleries. It also has weekly markets, held in Cathedral Square where you can purchase many authentic New Zealand items. It resides in the Canterbury district and is close to ski resorts, whale watching, hot springs and many other beautiful outdoor attractions.

The historic Christchurch tram runs right through the middle of town.

Enjoying a leisure day with friends and a cup of Jo.
Kara with Wanda, another co-worker from Wellington.
We've been fortunate to see many friends who have passed through, or who have flown out of Christchurch, as it is the central hub for international flights on the south island.

One activity you can do in Christchurch is punting on the Avon River.

We enjoyed the last few hot days of summer at the beach in Sumner.

On our way home one evening, we saw this little hedgehog by the front door.
Here he is trying to hide. He was a very cute little shy guy.

Christchurch Cathedral.

Kara and I eating the best chocolate cake! It came with a side of ice cream and hot fudge drizzled all over it. Can life get any better? I submit that it cannot!

So there you have it, an intro to Christchurch and some of the surrounding areas! It has been a really good home for us, with lots of things to keep us entertained in and around the city. We only have about 6 weeks left in New Zealand and we can't believe how fast it's gone! Stay tune for more of our Christchurch activities. Thanks for reading everyone!!!