After our buffet breakfast, we left Tekapo lakes in a blaze of sunshine, which quickly deteriorated into gloom & rain.

The big shout, in days gone by a ferryman could be summoned to see you safely across this stretch, by shouting!

We arrived at our last overnight stopping spot, The Maple at Harewood.
The very lovely landlady suggested we venture into the city centre & trot to the top of the newly opened 4 storey library, from there you have views over the entire metropolis.

8 years ago, Christchurch fell victim to our planets 3rd most expensive natural disaster.
An earthquake ripped throuth the city centre causing 50 Billion dollars worth of damage, for 2 years access to the area was only granted to the military & emergency services.
The Cathedral awaits it's turn, to be returned to it's former glory.

The rebuilding is now in full swing, with civic buildings now rebuilt and shops / bars / restaurants moving back in.

This beautiful 1924 tram and 2 others like it, take visitors on a guided tour of the centre.

Our guide Bas, narrowly avoids an accident by almost running a red light, tells us the many tales of history, heroism & recovery, from his antique cab.

See our car, parked beneath the city's newest piece of street art.

Another suggestion by our hostess, the tavern on Harewood..

Tuckered out from last nights star gazing & a busy day again today, we order an early dinner & sneak home to pack the cases.

Whilst we are excited to see our family, we are sad another epic adventure is drawing to a close.

Hope you've all enjoyed the ride. Goodnight faithful reader xxx