The rebuild of Christchurch since the earthquake into a city in which the residents did have a say in what they wanted, has to be applauded.
There are still “Red Zones” however, where no houses are being rebuilt but may be in the future. Many of these Red Zone areas are now parks.
Memorial Wall in the CBD commemorating those who died in the earthquake.
Christchurch CBD, The Tannery (boutique shops) and Ravenscar Museum
The Ravenscar House Museum
When the Wakefield’s home was damaged in the Earthquake, Jim and Susan decided to donate their entire collection of Art works to the Christchurch City. However, so extensive was this collection that it could not be displayed satisfactory in their opinion. So, they built the Ravenscar House Museum Gallery and Home in the CBD so this Art could be enjoyed by all.
What is extraordinary is that the Art Works are displayed in the exact replica of the room in the Wakefield’s home.
Note the secret door in the library with books hiding the wonderful secret door.
Christchurch surrounding districts
Staying a month is Christchurch allowed us the time to explore the region by cycling or driving in our support vehicle.
KAIAPOI
We cycled from our POP in Christchurch to Kaiapoi on the wonderful 3m wide tar seal cycleway. The 21klm return ride included a coffee at a Cafe on the Kaiapoi River foreshore near the River Queen paddle steamer. The River Queen offers a tour on the River which includes a lunch on board.
Sumner and New Brighton beaches
Our stay in Christchurch
We parked our Motorhome on a POP (park over property) which had been an orchard but now the owners welcomed Caravans and Motorhomes to stay for a nominal fee while visiting the region.
The POP is owned by Neil and Denise who offer a small number travellers in their Motorhomes and Caravans an opportunity to park for a few days. There is Power and water options available if required.
Neil and Denise encourage their travelling guests to meet for a ‘happy hour’ early evening to share their stories and knowledge. At these ‘meet and greets’ we enjoyed the company of: Ron and Suzanne, Tays and Emma, Carly and partner, Trevor and Leslie, Hugh and Jamie, Katie and Gareth, Grace and friend, Murray and Eli, Dave and Penny and John whose wife was away in UK.
1 Comment
James Bonham
I wonder if the stained glass in the Christchurch Cathedral survived the earthquake, it was by my friend the artist Philip Trustum?