Gems of Christchurch, New Zealand

Like many people across the globe,  we are learning to navigate through a world that has been cancelled.  New Zealand is in week 3 of the mandatory self isolation rule.  Still nothing but grocery stores, pharmacies and a few gas stations are open.  Car traffic is minimal and Christchurch feels deserted.  We are allowed to walk outside which has been a nice luxury that some folks don't have due to the type of lock down their country is in or bad weather.  We are having wonderful fall weather with cool mornings but warm sunshine filled afternoons.

Hiking 3 to 4 hours every day is our routine.  So far, it has kept us in good physical as well as mental health.  Exploring different parts of the city, we've uncovered some interesting art pieces along with some lovely old buildings.  The Maori culture is represented everywhere here and is an integral part of New Zealand's personality.  The Maori's ancestors are from Eastern Polynesia and their culture is similar to what you would find in Hawaii.  We didn't realize that the Polynesian Triangle is a region of the Pacific Ocean with three island groups at its corners:  Hawaii, Easter Island and New Zealand!






Some of the city art is modern and quite intriguing in many ways.  Christchurch is working hard to remake itself since the 2009 earthquake destroyed so many of their heritage buildings.  Tourism has been a major part of the city's revenue stream for many years so they continue to enhance the downtown with new interesting things.  They have accomplished a nice blending of old and new to date.

Anton Parsons - Passing Time

Sir Antony Gormley - STAY

Some strange modern art - giant hairspray cans???

Now that's a daffodil!

We are working hard at staying curious.  Starting each day wondering what new beauty will unfold if we are just paying attention.  Perhaps the silver lining of this pandemic is the opportunity to better learn how to be satisfied with where you are at this moment. 

Wishing you a joyful moment right now!

Cheryl & Dan

Comments

  1. LinellApril 12, 2020 at 11:31 AM

    We are late to following your journey! Stay safe and thank you for sharing your travels! :)

    ReplyDelete

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