Barbara's travels continue 2018

I could not leave Christchurch without fitting in a short walk down the avenue of cherry blossoms next to the main road to the City Centre. The blooms have only just appeared and will sadly last for such a short time once the Norwest winds start up - a downside of springtime. People tend to look up, but the blossom encircling the tree trunks looks like necklaces of flowers. It is so pretty. Time to say farewell to Mike and home and head south. The journey down to Wanaka is always one of the highlights of any trip. It doesn't matter how often you pass Lake Pukaki, its beauty and the magnificence of Mount Cook on the far side just blow your mind. Leaving the lakes behind, my next favourite lies ahead, the lovely Lindis Pass, bathed in the late afternoon sun, which highlights the rich colours of the tussock, contrasted with the snowy peaks and clear blue sky.  The other side of the pass is no less spectacular as one descends towards Tarras. Driving with the canoe made corners a littl

The season of spectacular blooms are both outside in the gardens and also in restaurants! Mona Vale is simply spectacular with its wonderful daffodil parks and its huge magnolias next to the lovely water lily pond. What a paradise. O , k, I had an interesting walk with friends around the city, admiring the fabulous street art. This one was particularly impressive. It was just next to the Courts, where only the next week NZ's  most despicable murderer of all time would be sentenced to life in prison with no parole for  his shooting spree in Christchurch mosques last year. I spent many hours after the sentencing trying to imagine life without the freedom to enjoy our lovely country and its fantastic seasons.  Daffodil Day was the day set aside to raise money for the Cancer Society. Otahuna Lodge, one of the most majestic heritage homes in Canterbury, offered the opportunity to join a guided tour around the superb, lovingly-tended gardens.. The grand finale was this breathtakingly be