Canterbury Tales

Canterbury is the region surrounding Christchurch. Its English name is no coincidence - the Cambridge-esque scenery including punting on the river, tall Cathedral spire and flat surrounding plains, made us feel very at home.



Punting on the River Avon



H at Cathedral Square

Akaroa is the largest town on the Banks Peninsular, jutting out just south of Christchurch. We made a day trip out to this French settlement, sampling some excellent Fish and Chips, wandering the small French named streets, and visiting local art galleries.



A stormy day in the Banks Peninsular

Saturday saw us take one of the most famous train journeys in the world, the TranzAlpine service from Christchurch (east coast) to Greymouth (west coast). We passed through the Southern Alps, crossing over tall viaducts, through long tunnels and inbetween towering peaks covered in snow. We left Christchurch on a clear crisp winter's day, but once we emerged from the tunnel after Arthur's Pass, the west coast was dramatically different. Mist, rain and cloud swirled around us, and showed what influence the mountain ranges have on the climate in the South Island. We returned back to Christchurch that afternoon, admiring the views whilst sipping a good bottle of New Zealand wine.



Southern Alps



G enjoying the outdoor viewing carriage

Today, our last day in New Zealand, has been spent wandering the weekend craft markets and the Art Gallery. We've been dazzled by the array of different scenery New Zealand offers, and are looking forward to returning in 2006.