We had hoped to catch the the Coastal Pacific train from Blenheim to Christchurch but it ceased operating two weeks ago, on the 5th May, for its winter break. Next time perhaps?

Our bus left at 8.40am, spot on time and as we drove over the mountains and entered into the Awatere Valley we saw loads more vineyards. Many with the name “Indevin” – the large corporation that just bought out Villa Maria that I mentioned two days ago. But there were loads more as well.

Mick and I were well and truely entertained by the stunning countryside.

After about forty minutes we descended the mountain range and came across the coastline and the railway line. These tracks travelled side by side for quite some time – it was stunning. I was surprised that the waves were not very large at all. We actually saw quite a few fur seals sunning themselves on the warm rocks – a first for the both of us.

In the distance we spotted some mountains with snow on their peaks. Crazy contrasts.

Our first sttop was at the coastal town of Kakoura.

Lots of people have told us that we should visit this pretty spot on the east coast, and while we did enjoy our morning tea break there, I think Picton is still our favourite spot on the South Island so far.

Once in Christchurch, we had a short walk from the bus interchange to our apartment, right in the centre of the CBD in the Cathedral Junction, exactly above the famous tram tracks.

Walking around this city during the afternoon, the most striking thing beside the massive re-construction taking place (after the devastating earthquakes of 2011 and 2016), were the murals.

They were everywhere.

And my two favourites finds were these.

Around 5pm, we headed out to discover what happens in Christchurch on a Friday evening.

Mick headed off earlier than me and I met him at church, or should I say, in The Church.

This place was pumping. And we met some really nice locals who had some suggestions for us regarding our travels, plus they allowed us to sit at their table. Everything else had been reserved. It was Friday night after all.
This location had been a church before of course, and the organ pipes were an amazing feature.

After two pints here we moved to the neighbouring Irish pub- Paddy McNaughton’s.

It was a very good imitation of an Irish pub – or so we thought; serving Guinness and whiskey, and thankfully some wine as well.

The place was covered in memorabilia. Photos all over the place – even the ceilings.

We had dinner was at the nearby BYO Filipino restaurant before calling it a night.