Day 36 Lake Pearson

Had a lovely breakfast on the bench in the sun in the morning. Then went to the Warehouse. Bought new oil for the VW bus and looked for discounted CDs, but unfortunately there was nothing. But everything is already in the Christmas business. Gift packages have been set up, there are all sorts of well-known and unknown confectioneries and also packaging as well as gift wrapping paper rolls. Then on to two shopping malls. Basically, there's not much different to buy than with us. Some funny ideas there. But overall, I notice that Christchurch is very lively here. In the malls, there are also a lot of options for eating. This is used so much that almost all seats are taken by half past eleven in the morning. The malls are already festively decorated, discreetly and tastefully. The shops themselves focus on a single Christmas setup per shop. After all, it's the beginning of summer at the same time, and this merchandise also has to attract the attention of the customer. Phew, what a combination, ice cube maker and Santa Claus side by side, really cool, in the true sense of the word. For me, it still takes some getting used to. Around 2 pm, I head towards Arthur's Pass after a short visit to Pak'n'save. The VW bus now shifts normally again after yesterday's repair, but the grinding noise is still there. Doesn't matter, sounds crappy, but drives well!

Dark rain clouds are approaching in the direction of Arthur's Pass. Hmm, where did I actually put my long pants, was the first thought. But the impending rain clears up after a 5-minute shower. I've had enough for today at Lake Pearson. Don't want to know anything else. The lake is on the mountain pass road, a great spot, very idyllic with ducks, etc. I'm right by the shore and can step out for a swim directly through the back doors in the morning. The rain finally comes at night, but there is no cooling down.