The fun way to get wet

Trip Start Mar 07, 2006
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Trip End Jun 30, 2006


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Flag of New Zealand  ,
Friday, April 7, 2006

I've made it to Christchurch, the south island's largest city and my last stop in New Zealand. I'll be here for a few nights before I fly to Australia. It's a pretty city - more of a large town, actually, with about 300,000 people - and "veddy veddy English", as some might say. Cathedral Square, the main square, is of course dominated by Christchurch Cathedral. There are lots of cafes, shops, art galleries and the like. Plenty to keep busy with for a few days.

Yesterday, I went rafting on the Rangitata river. It's one of the few places in the world where there are Class V rapids at all water levels. It was a real adrenalin rush, and very very wet. And cold. The river's water is all glacial runoff, so it was very freezing going for a bit of a swim, as some of the boats did who flipped over in the rapids. We managed to stay upright, but just barely. Definately good fun.

On the way back from Geraldine to Christchurch, the bus broke down, so we got a bit of an unexpected stop at a pub while the rafting guides sorted out their options. They ended up tying the bus to one of their vans and pulling it along until they got up to a high enough speed to allow the bus to get into top gear, because the clutch was broken. Then they let go of the rope, and the bus apparently made it back to Christchurch without hitting a single stop or red light. Only in New Zealand.

I'm off to explore the city. Till next time!
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Comments

lstein
lstein on Apr 7, 2006 at 12:32PM

rapids
What a HOOT!!!... Fabulous pictures. Who TOOK them?? What a wild and crazy ride> Dad and I did that 31 years ago out West. See? It's in the blood!! (Right). M

lindsayu
lindsayu on Apr 15, 2006 at 04:50PM

Hey!
Hi Sari,

I hardly ever check that email address but lucky I did cuz I found your blog link. Sounds like you are having such a good time! Anyways, I'm looking forward to hearing more about your adventures. And if you have time to look for souvenirs, I'd like something in a 6-foot australian male please. I'll pay for shipping.

Linds : )

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