Our First Visitor

We welcomed Sophie to Christchurch, as our first visitor, from England. She had already travelled through New Zealand for three weeks, with the Stray Bus, but stayed with us, for six days in Christchurch, before flying on to Australia.

We gathered information and brochures from the visitor's centre before Sophie's arrival so that she would have busy and fun packed days, whilst we were at work. One of our recommended activities was a day trip to Kaikoura, to go whale watching. She had a fantastic day as she saw whales close up, as well as dozens of dolphins. I guess one day we will do the whale watching trip but like most people when you live close to something good you take it for granted and don't visit it as much as one should.

During the weekend we drove around Christchurch and showed Sophie the highlights. We even visited an open home (Visiting open homes is a free and enjoyable weekend activity. Particularly, for the inquisitive!). It was a lovely house with a beautiful garden and even had a swimming pool. However we were not in a position to purchase! The next day was a sunny, autumn day so we drove around the Port Hills, and stopped at The Sign of the Kiwi. Not only do you get a great view of Christchurch over to the Southern Alps; you can also buy a very nice ice-cream there! We then drove on to Lyttleton, stopping for a while to admire the paragliders before returning to Christchurch, via Sumner.

View of Lyttleton Harbour from the Port Hills

Soon, we will be moving into a rented house just for ourselves. We will have more room then so that we can be more accommodating to visitors. You are all welcome!