Christchurch - dawiya rêwîtiyek

We can't believe it, but our three-month break is coming to an end. And with it, this blog for now.

But don't worry, the next big adventure is already planned and our blog will continue from June 2018. We won't reveal where we're going just yet.

Our campervan's odometer now reads over 8,000 km! We've seen countless cities and incredible nature. Our heads are spinning from so many impressions, so we decided to spend the last few days at a campground in Christchurch.

The devastating earthquakes of 2010/2011 have forever marked the city and left unimaginable destruction. After more than 6 years, the rebuilding is still not complete and the city center is one big construction site. Every day, a different street is closed or something new has opened.

Up until now, the famous cathedral in the center of Christchurch has been excluded from the ongoing reconstruction. But after over six years, it has been decided that the restoration will likely begin next year. Until then, the destroyed church demonstrates the forces at work during an earthquake.

Nevertheless, you can feel life slowly returning and the city already exudes so much charm. So it is certain that Christchurch deserves another visit someday. Just like Sydney.

And we couldn't resist taking a small day trip. Behind Christchurch lies a larger peninsula that we eagerly explored.

What do we take away from such a formative journey through one of the most beautiful countries in the world? Of course, the breathtaking nature and cheeky wildlife. Here, there are not only completely crazy birds like the burger-biting duck in Queenstown and the crazy seagulls everywhere, but also playful sea lions on the beach or little blue penguins in the bay of Oamaru. In addition to all the flora and fauna, we have especially grown fond of the New Zealanders. Everywhere we went, we were warmly welcomed as if we had known each other for years. So we will definitely miss New Zealand and our time here, but we are also looking forward to our families, friends, and our two cats. A journey always means having a home to return to.