Christchurch

With a delay of almost one hour and two additional hours of time difference, we landed in Christchurch at 1 am and were grateful for our hotel near the airport. In the morning, we picked up our new home for the next month just around the corner. The size and model were supposed to be similar to the camper in Tasmania. We believe Britt no longer offers this and so we got a small motorhome. After stocking up the fridge, we went straight to the city center. 10 years after our last visit to Christchurch and the earthquake in 2011, we were shocked and amazed at the same time. Shocked by the extent and amazed at everything that has already been rebuilt or improvised in a very sympathetic and creative way in the meantime.

In the evening, we settled in as the last camper at the caravan park. Instead of a pitch, we got a parking space, which of course we negotiated a discount for. We ended the evening at Smash Palace (an improvised bar made out of containers, buses, and lovely staff) and ate at the Friday Night Food Market.

What luck that 'Christmas at the Park' (sponsored by Coca Cola) took place on Saturday evening! A classic family event where thousands of people sit on their camping chairs in front of the stage, listen to New Zealand musicians, and enjoy the fireworks at the end. Jacqueline was also very amused.