New Zealand 2007 Day 16

New Zealand 2007

Day Sixteen Christchurch March 30

Time to change coasts - From West to East. Route 73 from Greymouth to Christchurch transcends the
Southern Alps via Arthur's Pass. Flora dramatically changes from rain forest to drier Southern
Nevada type golden scrub. Arthur's pass contained only a limited amount of hairpin curves with long
straight-aways on the Eastern side.

A surprise stop was a river or water cave. One of the small glacier rivers had chiseled a cave in a
lower foothill. The cave is now a flowing river and frequented by adventurers. Diagrams at the cave
start show how to complete the hour long trail. It does require a strong light ("Torch") and change
of clothes. Start is at the river cave's exit - against the current to avoid be swept away. Sides of
were very smooth or polished by the waters.

Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island and the increased traffic proved it. Most of the streets
in and out of the city are two lane - so travel time can be delayed. British accents are everywhere - type
of architecture, noted statues of royalty, street names, and even the small river Avon.

Interior Christchurch has a large plaza with street markets. Someone with our travel group purchased
a few jade decorations. City Walk number 1 (of 3) starts at the Plaza. Arrows painted on the sidewalk
marked the direction and brochures provided insight as to the buildings visited. Restored rail trolley
service was available and looped the main interior city.

Christchurch is the destination of choice for many due to it's British feel and endless variety of
restaurants. In true British fashion, the Botanic Gardens were large scaled and included a very
robust collection of trees, plants, and flowers. On the river trails, "punts" (gondola) rides were
available.