Day 37 – Feb 11 – Christchurch, NZ

Yep, we are still in New Zealand.  I believe that this is the first time that any Holland American Ship has had so many ports in NZ, so once again I feel very fortunate.  You get a real feel for the coastline and a brief overview of the cites and towns.  I had been told that Christchurch is the most British-like city outside of England.  I could definitely see the resemblance (the red two-decker buses, the big Episcopal cathedral, the stature of Queen Victoria and the lovely roses).  However, Christchurch has become very popular lately.  It is a bustling city filled with tourists and hikers.  In fact, a highlight for me was going into the Information center and finding all kinds of information on hiking in NZ.  It looks like they have a very active hut system that cover the mountain ranges for both islands.  This provided me with research literature for hopefully my next trip here.

     Sunrise over Christchurch

  Combining the modern with the original peoples.

The busy Cathedral  square.

Garden displays by children.

Rugby dominates this whole country…

and so does environmental and community issues.

I spent most of my time roaming around the Christchurch botanical gardens. 

Hobbit Trees.

It was windy and in the 60’s hence the hat and sweater.

My favorite area was the one devoted to New Zealand plants and trees.

A stout Queen Victoria at Victoria Square.

It was here at Christchurch that I saw the first signs of suburbia as we were driven back to the port.