Christchurch

Well, arrived in Christchurch, and were met by Christine and Katrina. Christine, Katrina and Noel had kindly offered their hospitality for that night - we had discovered when booking that there were no vacancies in B & Bs and motels! All accomodation was taken by those who had lost their homes in the earthquakes, or by those involved in the reconstruction.

After a delightful meal at Sequoia 88, Christine took us for a drive round Christchurch.  We were saddened to see the destruction wrought by the earthquakes on this beautiful city. On a more positive note, we also saw the huge amount of reconstruction taking place. 

We last visited Christchurch 30-odd years ago, so the contrast was sad indeed.

Christchurch is the oldest city in New Zealand. We are happy to have memories of what it was and what it will undoubtedly return to. This montage from Wikipedia is a great reminder: