New Zealand - Christchurch & Banks Bay Peninsula

---

My last few days in New Zealand...

From Mt. Cook, I drove up to Hanmer Springs, where I soaked in thermal pools and hiked in a forest of redwoods and evergreen trees (all planted many years ago). Then I headed to Kaikoura on the East Coast, where I went kayaking in the Pacific Ocean. The next day, I drove down the coast to Christchurch for one day in the historic English-style city. I took a walk through the famous Botanic Gardens in the rain and got a quick tour of the coast from my new local friend, John, whom I'd met back in Hokitika a few weeks earlier. Finally, I spent my last two nights in New Zealand on the Banks Peninsula, about an hour from Christchurch. It was the perfect way to end my 6-week adventure in this beautiful country.

Next, I'm off to Perth Australia...

---

Photos

Hike from Hanmer Springs
Lumber is a big industry here. They replant the trees in neat little rows

Cafe sign in Hanmer Springs
Yet another healthy American food to travel the globe

The famous rose garden
Botanic Gardens

Botanic Gardens

John from Christchurch
He was kind enough to show me around the Christchurch area, despite the rainy weather.

Boating in LeBon's Bay
Again, that brilliant turquoise water!

We saw Hector's dolphins from the boat
They are the smallest dolphins in the world

The Hostel at Le Bons Bay
A 100-year old farm house that the owner restored.

My cabin at the hostel
Le Bons Bay Backpackers on Banks Peninsula

Family style dinner al fresco
Le Bons Bay Backpackers

Comments

[Brianna]

Thank you for sharing your avdentures
Hey Laura, It has been so much fun following your adventures. New Zeland is an amazing place and I look forward to traveling with my family soon. Safe travels as you head to your next destination. I am excited for the next chapter...

[Lara Stone]

Christchurch
Dave and I loved Christchurch. We stayed in a hotel directly across from THE church and had a huge bay window to enjoy the view. We also saw a movie there with reserved seats! That was new to us. As always - wonderful photography. I love what a variety of things you're doing on your trip, and all the cool hostels you're staying in. Wonderful! Merry Christmas!