New Zealand - South Island

Visiting New Zealand had been on our travel "Bucket List" for years. Finally we made it to the South Island, in 2015. In no time, we found ourselves beginning to plan our next trip.

Our initial reaction on arrival at our hotel in central Christchurch was sheer amazement at the extent of the devastation left by the earthquakes of late 2010 and early 2011. Very few central city buildings survived in usable form. The attention of the news media moved aside after showing the initial chaos, but subsequently many buildings, not necessarily so obviously damaged, have had to be demolished or are still standing empty. Most of all, the people have rebounded and a new and far more robust city centre is well on the way.

Our excitement continued wherever we went. The landscapes are stunning, the mountains and glaciers amazing, the food and beer good, and the people are very friendly and welcoming. Best of all, the roads were uncluttered, meaning that stopping for photographs was not hazardous and travel was relaxing.

That next trip may not be too far distant. :-)

Visiting New Zealand had been on our travel "Bucket List" for years. Finally we made it to the South Island, in 2015. In no time, we found ourselves beginning to plan our next trip.

Our initial reaction on arrival at our hotel in central Christchurch was sheer amazement at the extent of the devastation left by the earthquakes of late 2010 and early 2011. Very few central city buildings surviv…  (read more)

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