Day 61 Christchurch and Back to Wollongong

I guess when there is a lot to do on trips you have to wake up early to get them all done.  So once again I was up for another beautiful sunrise from my lodge.

I really like shadow effects.

I supposed I should have taken this picture the day before but hey, I got it today.

An orange glowing mountain in the backround.

We got to Christchurch and the bus dropped us off by the airport.  Not knowing what to do for the next 12 hours, we decided to check out this place called Antartica.  Randomly, we happened to bump into this fellow: The prime minister of foreign affairs for China.  The reason I know this to be true is due to the fact that we were with those Chinese travelers as well, Celest and Alan.  They were very excited to have bumped into him by accident.  There were talks going on between China and New Zealand over cooperation in the South Pacific region.

Well, isn't that ironic.  hhahaha, the Chinese in New Zealand came out to greet their prime minister of foreign affairs, they chose a greet location to stand in front of. hahahahahahahahaha

To be honest, when we entered the city of Christchurch there was not a lot to do or see.  The Earthquake had been so devasting that many buildings were unstable and the majority were cracked or crumbling.  The whole center of the city had been shut down.

As I walked down the empty streets this eerie feeling overcame me and I felt like I was in the movie I am Legend.  The only person in an entire city, it was a strange strange experience.

Unfortunately, one of their most historical buildings had been destroyed. A lot of work needs to be done to repair it.  Just read the sign if you don't believe me.

Rubble....

The city has been innovative in trying to keep their buisness district alive.  Using connex boxes they have managed to create a strip mall near the center city.  Rather interesting if you ask me.

However, there is a stark reminder of the damage caused by the Earthquake as this was the view from those connex boxes.  A crane was busy at work tearing down these skyscrapers.

Well, I hope you enjoyed hearing about my adventures in New Zealand.  I arrived safety back at Sydney airport and even made it to class that day.  It was a fun-packed trip and if anyone is ever interested in going there; let me know and I'll give you some tips!