Day 35 Christchurch

I set off at 10 o'clock in the morning and the day doesn't start off quite optimally. The noise in the clutch area becomes noticeably louder and being familiar with VW buses, I know that doesn't sound good. I can already guess what it is. The good thing is that an hour away is the Rental Company at Christchurch Airport with a workshop. The problem is fixed within an hour, and I was completely right with my assumption. Everyone is really nice and we also exchange the interior lights, which have been gradually breaking over the past few weeks.

Afterwards, I continue to the campground in Christchurch, a bit posh and expensive, but car wash is available there. So I saved myself the car wash, I'm just a thrifty person! The dirt from the past few weeks is really stubborn, and the car wash takes almost an hour, but the van is white again now!

After the bus driver ignores the stop right in front of the campground and just drives past, I walk into the city. It's no problem, it only takes an hour and I have plenty of time. In the city center of Christchurch, it's really damn quiet in the evening. This is mainly because after the big earthquake, everything was in ruins. Many vacant lots with makeshift parking lots, partially shopping centers still in containers. On the other hand, there are already many brand new buildings without charm. Extreme contrasts. The city wants to reposition itself very modernly with knowledge and education. That's not a bad idea for a fresh start. The bus station is very well done, modern yet charming. However, when you walk through the city, the devastating earthquake is still present everywhere, and the atmosphere among visitors and residents is rather calm. I wasn't sure what to expect, but it made quite an impression. Actually, I wanted to go eat, but the city center was practically lifeless. On the way home by bus, passing by several motels, shopping centers, and a lot of restaurants, I could see that there is indeed a lively city life, but not in the city center.

So I eat something from the VW bus refrigerator at the campground.