Christchurch New Zealand

http://www.facebook.com/Support.Christchurch.Earthquake Help them.

Feb 22 -2011 Christchurch ,New Zealand suffers another massive Earthquake.

113 Fatalities ,with numbers rising ,it is a city broken walls and broken people.

Official Donation Site

.www.christchurchearthquakeappeal.govt.nz.

Christchurch , New Zealand ,is found on the South Island's east coast. Come with me and discover this vibrant young city with a vast ,exciting ,picturesque back-yard.!

Also known as 'The Garden City', it has often been referred to as the most English City outside of England. The Southern Alps run down the backbone of the province called Canterbury. Some of the mountain range in height of over 10,000 ft.

Lord of The Rings was filmed among much of that mountainous scenery and it is not hard to imagine why film makers enjoy the beauty and diverse landscape. During the winter months ,the Alps become wonderland magic for skiers, snowboarders,attracting not only local patrons but International enthusiasts as they follow the Winter Sports. Some of the bigger ski-fields have comfortable facilities , for socialising as well , restaurants ,bars etc.

Hunting and Fishing in one of biggest backyards in the world. Here they hunt Majestic Deer , Elk (trophy stags),and Wild Boar ,Chamois and Thar .Fish the clear spring lakes or the glacier fed mountain rivers, that are home to some of New Zealand's Salmon and Trout.

As is common for all of New Zealand conservation is paramount ,along with safety ,and common sense. Department of Conservation (D.O.C) have provided many modern walking tracks, and viewing platforms.They also along with search and rescue ,recommend that if heading on tramping ( hiking trips ,you let family or friends know) if you are a visitor ,inform them. ( they have easy to find offices scattered throughtout national parks etc.They have used many hours of resources to protect the wildlife and your life ,so please respect their recommendations.

    How you travel ,is really your preference. Be it plane ( which is probably how you got here) train, carf ,campervan,motorbike, bicycle, 4WD  tour ,ferry ( connecting the islands) or foot. Included is link for tours ,rental vehical.

Just an added here ,that you wont find on the more commercial tourist web sites is if youre planning to stay for quite a long vacation in Christchurch , New Zealand then www.trademe.co.nzis a must see for used vehicles ( and properties to rent). Trade Me is NZ's version of Craigslist ,very organised and well set out. Another place to maybe email or call into are anyone of the  Backpackers hostels .They all have notice boards of travellers ready to sell their vehicles before returning home.

Botanical Gardens in Christchurch , also known as The Garden City' reflected by the finest collection of exotic and indigenous plants found anywhere in New Zealand . Prepare to be impressed with large majestic trees, sweeping lawns attracting many people to relax and leisurely stroll among the feature gardens ,rock,water,rose and herb gardens are bu a few on display.

Located in the Central City area it is popular with the locals and tourist alike. The Canterbury Museum also sits on these grounds ,modern and educationally interactive in many areas. They are proud to house world class dispalys of geology,zoology,Maori,Asian and European collections.

Sumner Beach   situated less than 15 mins from downtown Christchurch, one of the regions popular summertime locations. The child friendly swimming beach is close to cafes and stores.

New Brighton Beach and Pier New Brighton is located east of the city ,a favourite seaside suburb,also popular with families. The New Brighton Pier in Christchurch dominates the shoreline over 300m long.

Taylors Mistake just over the hill from Sumner , loved by surfers and swimmers alike. There are also many great walking tracks over-looking the Pacific ocean .from the gentle slow walk to the more ambitious walker.

Open 24 hrs free shuttles operate to and from local hotles. www.chchcasino.co.nz. Located in the central city area 24 hours .Offering 428 Gaming Machines, Blackjack, American Roulette, Mini and Midi Baccarat ,Tai Sai, Money Wheel and Caribean Stud Poker as way of entertainment. Age Limit 20yrs-Dress Code Casual ,no jeans.

Orana Wildlife Park

This park is one of 5 of its kind in the world ,set aside at least half a day to truly see the whole park , there are also picnic facilities and convenient family friendly areas. Set On 80 hectares of park like grounds with an African theme ,Orana Park has been developed as an open range sanctuary for endangered animals. Streams , moats and banks are used as natural barriers which allow the public to see certain animals as close to possible in their natural surroundings. Orana Park , Christchurch has over 400 animals on display http://www.oranawildlifepark.co.nz/about.htm

There is so much to do and see in Christchurch , I lived there for over 20 yrs , raised a family there , camped , fished , swam ,shopped, worked and enjoyed the charm and wide open spaces, and beautiful faces.

Thankyou for spending some time there with me too.