Report 3

Feb. 16-18. Returned to Chch , found our b&b hotel, and grabbed a tram (trolley) to tour the city center. Had a real comedian driver who entertained as he educated. There are lots of Asian tourists and students in Chch, many of whom were taking pictures of the tram. Driver said his goal was to be on every mantle in Asia. We got off at Cathedral Square (Chch was founded and designed by Anglican Church so this is the town centre) where a special flower program was going on. Young ladies in extravagant costumes that looked like flowers, backed by orchestral music and set off by the church decked out in flowers. Was really very nice. A local clothes designer had made each costume which took a unheard amount of embroidery thread. Chch is known as garden city. We toured botanical gardens – beautiful flowers and impressive trees. After seeing all these gigantic twisted limbed trees, we know why the “Lord of the Rings” was filmed in this area.

Second day we took bus tour of city and surrounding area which included more beautiful gardens, lovely estates, a trip to the beach and, yet, another hill for Rob to climb and then back to town for dinner and a movie. Third day we took a drive in the country then returned to catch flight to Auckland. Sign seen: “My Pony’s Poo, $1.00

In our drive we happened upon a one-man transportation museum. Had some interesting old cars and other vehicles, plus printing presses, but not much of it in tip-top condition. An under-funded labor of love. Incidentally, please note the color similarities in these two snapshots. Pretty artsy, no.

Enough for now. Love to you all

Susie and Rob

T OF C