Christchurch

I’ve been to Christchurch a number of times, but not since the earthquake, so was interested to see how the city was faring 9 years on.

The major earthquake struck on Wayne’s birthday, it was the first year of Papamoa College and we were at Thornton Beach on the first school camp. We all gathered around a small TV in disbelief, with one of our teachers desperate for news as her parents were trapped in a hotel. Fortunately her parents escaped unharmed but not so 185 others who lost their lives and thousands of others whose lives were changed forever.

So many buildings damaged and 9 years on the evidence is still apparent. So many car parks where once there were buildings, so much steel holding things up and every new building with the criss-cross steel. There are areas where the grief penetrates the soul but also areas of real beauty and creativity that have sprung up. As we walked around we were struck by the sadness and inspired by the desire to rebuild, and not just the buildings. Kia kaha Christchurch.

Art is a great way to create interest and inspire or just to make you smile.

Before we ventured into town we went to Antarctica! A great centre. The highlights were the immersion in the – 18 snow storm, the haggland ride and of course the puppies. Although not really dressed for the snow, it was 31° outside hence the shorts, you really get an appreciation for those explorers who ventured and still do into the crazy cold. Still makes me ask why….

Bizarre but unreal experiences can happen at anytime. We decided to take up a recommendation for dinner from a lady at the campground. A little lost wandering around a shopping centre carpark I hear a voice saying ‘it is her’. The next minute I am hugging one of my ex students who is in Christchurch at uni. We spent a short time catching up before heading our separate ways. NZ, sometimes it is a joy that you are so small!

To complete our Christchurch experience we undertook the duty of testing some of the local craft brews. Wayne has now developed a taste for stouts! There are side effects!