It was wonderful to have a fairly restful weekend in Christchurch before heading to Auckland, and having an enthusiastic nature lover staying with me, we went to the Estuary, a place I haven't visited for years. It was as lovely as ever, though quiet apart from this group of inquisitive gulls, queuing to get a view of their visitors!
The trees alongside the estuary aren't natives but are nonetheless artistic creations if you stop and look carefully.
Another very non- touristy place I love is Travis Swamp, which is making a great comeback since the earthquakes destroyed many of the homes which had been built there, thus returning the area to its former wetland status. Life has returned, so have the birds, and the magnificent flax bushes are thriving and attracting the native birds. Perfect scenario for nature.
The next day I was invited to brunch at my friend Catherine's in another of my favourite spots, Lyttleton. Even at 9.30 in the morning it was sadly too hot to sit outside, but it was great to spend time inside her wonderfully cosy cottage, one of the first built here in Christchurch.
What a view over the harbour and Quail Island, in the middle of what was once the crater of Lyttleton volcano.
Of course, you can't go to Lyttleton on a Saturday without visiting the very popular Farmers' market there. I love it - the delicious food with its enticing smells, the colourful stalls manned by super- friendly people, and the music and relaxed atmosphere. Here in the empty space where shops and restaurants once stood , there are tiny stalls with a wide range of marvelous handcrafts, and a great musician who managed the impossible by getting a couple up dancing in the 32 degree temperatures!
Christchurch is certainly still a wonderful place to be!
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