The weather turned favorable and we rode the free shuttle through the 1 1/4 mile long tunnel from the dock port to the beautiful historic city of Christchurch, New Zealand. We decided to explore on our own, first stopping at the information center and then asking questions of the many ambassadors stationed around the town square. We decided to spend the morning walking through the city botanical gardens where the Avon river meandered, flanked by century old trees and rock gardens. I’m pictured standing under a 140 year old tree planted by the Duke of Edinburgh. The gardens are astonishing in their variety, design, and beauty.
The day grew comfortably warm, and we decided to take a three hour walking tour with a personal guide in the afternoon. It was very informative. Christchurch has so many things to see and do it would take at least a week to explore it all. We chose very low key activities, although were tempted to ride gondolas and parasail down the mountain, float the white water in a raft, and ride in hot air balloons. Regrettably, those things are for another day, another visit.
The ship was scheduled to sail at 6:30PM, but at 5:30 the captain announced that a squall was arriving and was visible across the harbor. We watched it approach kicking up a fine sea spray with its 50 mph winds, followed by sideways rain. The captain delayed our departure until the winds slowed, then he announced that we might experience rough seas on our way to Picton sometime during the night. The weather in New Zealand can turn on a dime. We have learned to wear layers, and always have an umbrella handy.
More tomorrow,
Gail Niebrugge, Alaska artist on tour
