The Catchup
It has been a while since I've imparted some detail of my adventures. This would be because I've either been running from one destination to another or in the bush tramping around. So let's play some catchup!
Christchurch
Arrived in Christchurch after spending a night in Murchison, or actually just outside on a farm with some friends of Laura's. We stayed in tents and got soaked in the morning as we packed them up. The drive to Christchurch from Murchison started off very rainy in the mountains that run along the West coast of New Zealand. As we left the mountains the sun was shining and the day turned quite hot. This would be the standard fare for the South Island. Whatever the weather is on one side it's the complete opposite on the other. Yes, I'm Canadian and specifically from Toronto where all we talk about is the weather!
In Christchurch we arrived stinky and tired. We hadn't showered since Picton before the Queen Charlotte Track, so of course showers were of top priority. Here we stayed with more friends of Laura's.
As for Christchurch itself, it was comparatively flat compared to any other city I've been in New Zealand so far. Explore the beach, the one main mountain range that divides Christchurch from the ocean. Found the small harbour "suburb" of Lyttleton to be quite charming and unlike the spotlessness of the rest of Christchurch. The downtown is small to what I'm used. The Art Centre and Art Gallery are both beautiful places to walk around. There is also a botanical gardens, which yes I managed to shoot more flower pictures of.
Dunedin
Left Christchurch on what was looking again to be another rainy day. As we headed down the East coast the rainy disappeared and it was back to a decent sunny day. We stop in a couple of places briefly, Timaru and Moeraki, and eventually descended in the city of Dunedin.
Dunedin, which is a student town, was at this time of year very dead. Many things were closed and aside from the setup for the New Years Eve Party in the Octagon there was no one around. In fact when we finally ventured on New Years Eve to the Octagon we were surprised there was anyone there to watch! The city itself is by far the most gritty of cities I've seen. Lots of graffiti and stencils on the walls, which was actually humourous and interesting. Countdown to the New Year and then on our way!
The Catlins
Our mad dash continued with one night in the Caltins, which is on the South end of the South Island. It features a rain forest-like climate intermixed with farms and mountains. We stayed in Papatowai. Here we visited the Lost Gypsy Caravan "gallery". It boasts lots of Gizmos, Gadgets and Automata and does not disappoint with many little trinkets you crank handles and flip switches to experience something truly unique. Most notable are the "Southern Gurglers" which uses a sea shell to create a bubbling noise as you turn the crank. Lots of fun.
The Catlins features some really beautiful forests. They are littered with ferns and moss which leave you with a stunning impression of the colour green. Most people, like myself, barely spend a night here. There are lots of great little sights, that had I the time would have liked to have seen more of.
Stewart Island (Rakiura)
Onward to Stewart Island to tackle the Rakiura Track. Took a flight across the straight as the word on the street is it's one of the roughest crossings in the world. The plan was small. I'd never flown on one that small in fact. The flight there was painless, no bumps, no scares. The flight on the way back, however, was a very, very, windy days. Until recently I had barely enjoyed the thrill of a roller coaster, now I can say this was much more um-thrilling!
The tiny town of Oban which is supported by both tourism and fishing is actually very enjoyable. It is nestled in Halfmoon Bay and has all the necessities needed to relax and escape. Of course one night here and onto the track. Three days in the woods. Lots to say, but again like the Queen Charlotte Track, I'd rather show it (see another blog entry below).
I now sit in Invercargill on a rainy day in the Internet cafe. And now we are all caught up!