Day 26 (Blenheim/Kaikoura/Christchurch) - Friday 14th October 2016

Isn't that view stunning? On our way to Christchurch we've seen some gorgeous scenery, as well as spotting some seals (I've never seen so many of them in one place!).

Christchurch was a sombre affair as our coach driver told us about the major earthquake that occurred here in 2011. It was the most violent earthquake ever recorded, and they'll be rebuilding the city for many years to come. Wherever you looked you'd find roadworks or building work going on (traffic cone city!). 

We had some free time here, so I wandered around and came across their mall made of shipping containers. I even managed to find a library! The helpful librarian gave me a map and directions to a memorial of chairs for the 185 people who lost their lives in the earthquake.

Later tonight, I'm meeting up with a writer friend from Christchurch I met on a writing forum - should be good! 😀

Update: I'm back from my meet-up, and I've had a fantastic time with my friend (Hi Hayley!). There were plenty of laughs, as well as chats about our writing processes (yay for winging it 😁). Hayley was an absolute love and gave me a stash of NZ chocolate goodies to try. Sadly, I think the Wispa I gave her in return from my emergency-British-chocolate secret supply was a poor exchange for her (sorry, Hayley, it's probably a bit battered by now as it's been in my bag for a few weeks - surprisingly enough to those who know me well, I hadn't eaten it already), but at least she'll know what true Cadbury's chocolate should taste like!

Me and Hayley

My NZ chocolate goodies

View at Kaikoura

Christchurch demolition

Shipping container mall

Art at shipping container mall

Christchurch Cathedral in background

Christchurch Cathedral

Christchurch art

Christchurch tram

Quest tally: two out of seven

Each of the '185 Empty Chairs' is different