Kaikoura - Blogabond

Our first trip out of Christchurch by car. We picked up a little Suzuki Swift, the last car available, as it was a stick shift. Last minute bookers who can only drive automatics, walk or take the bus. The route took us through the Waipara Valley noted for regional Sauvignon Blanc. Literally dozens of vinyards en route but we gave them a miss this trip as the temperature hovered near 27 and it was beach weather. There are as many beaches as vinyards some named and some not. The scenery is spectacular. What to photograph and what not becomes a joke after a while, because it is ever changing and
makes you think that someone has painted a hugh back drop for a movie set following instructions to make the background as inspirational as possible. When we returned to Christchurch our room mates commented that we should have gone south for real scenery
as there is not much to see around Kaikoura. Can't wait. The little Suzuki got a work out, up and down mountains passes, back and forth through swichbacks, and of course the narrow roads with a posted speed limit of 100 KMH were lots of fun. I can't imagine anyone other than Michael Shumacher possibly averaging this speed particularly while dodging the natural obstacles like unfenced sheep and cattle. We spent most of afternoon at beach and checked into the Adelpi Hotel. Its glory days are gone as it is now essentially set up for backpackers. Backpacking is a real industry. Buses sheppard travellers all over the island from one destination to another.

Had a few beer in the local pub before bed. The waitress would not take my money and I assumed we were running a tab, only to find out later drinks were free. The bar had bet $ 1000.00 of free drinks that the rugby game between Christchurch and Dunedin would not be tied at half time. Of course it was. It explained why even sunburned old working stiffs were lined up ordering every odd exotic liqueur and glasses of the most expensive wine. More than one sadly commented at the start of second half " It's back to the beer now" Glenna enjoys the seat closes to the cliff edge on the narrow high pass roads. It's a real treat when making room for passing cars.

written by

RTW2009 on March 8, 2009 from Kaikoura, New Zealand

from the travel blog: RTW/2009

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Kaikoura, New Zealand

Heading South?