Road Trip (3/4)
Saturday: Serene Wilderness and Celestial Wonders Link to heading
Our Saturday journey took us to the tranquil waters of a salmon farm, where we marveled at the industrious creatures swimming beneath the surface.
Continuing our exploration, we sought out fields of lupines. Though most were wilted, their fleeting beauty served as a reminder of the ephemeral nature of life and the importance of cherishing each moment.
As the day waned, we made our way to a secluded campsite in the middle of nowhere, nestled amidst the wilderness of Fairlie. Surrounded by the symphony of nature, we set up camp beneath a canopy of stars, the night sky stretching out before us like a vast canvas waiting to be painted.
Sunday: Christchurch Bound Link to heading
We began our Sunday with a scenic drive to Christchurch, the road offering glimpses of New Zealand’s diverse landscapes. Our first stop in the city was a unique find—a possum wool shop.
Next, we headed to the bustling food hall, where the rich aromas of diverse cuisines filled the air. We indulged in a culinary adventure, sampling dishes from various stalls and savoring every bite.
The day continued with a quest to find a puzzle, leading us to explore multiple shops. We searched through shelves filled with brain teasers and intricate challenges.
After a day full of exploration and fun, we reflected on our adventures as we settled in for the night, grateful for the day’s discoveries and the memories made in vibrant Christchurch.
Monday: From Wildlife to Waves Link to heading
We started our Monday with a lazy morning, relaxing and watching football, savoring the slow pace after days of adventure.
Once energized, we visited the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, where we immersed ourselves in the rich tapestry of New Zealand’s fauna. Strolling through the reserve, we encountered a variety of animals in well-maintained habitats, learning about their behaviors and conservation efforts.
In the afternoon, we hit the road again, driving to Omihi. Upon arrival, we found a perfect camping spot near the beach. The rest of the day was spent enjoying the serene coastline, the sound of the waves providing a soothing backdrop.
Tuesday: Relaxation and Coastal Escapes Link to heading
We indulged in a long, restful sleep, allowing ourselves to fully recharge. Once awake, we headed straight for a refreshing swim, letting the cool waters invigorate us.
After drying off and enjoying the morning’s tranquility, we set off for Kaikoura. The scenic drive offered stunning coastal views, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
Upon arriving in Kaikoura, we couldn’t resist another swim. The clear, inviting waters beckoned, and we spent the afternoon enjoying the coastal beauty, soaking up the sun, and reveling in the simple pleasure of being by the sea.
Wednesday: Underwater Wonders and Coastal Drives Link to heading
My Wednesday started with an exhilarating diving adventure on Mana, the retired coast guard boat. Plunging into the underwater world, we explored the vibrant marine life, spotting banded wrasse, blue moki, red moki, and marblefish, each adding a splash of color to the ocean’s depths. Starfish and sea urchins adorned the seabed, with the latter even providing a unique culinary experience as we sampled them underwater.
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After our dive, we drove to Rarangi, the journey offering more stunning coastal views. The drive was a perfect complement to the day’s underwater wonders, adding a touch of scenic beauty to our trip.
As we settled into Rarangi, the memories of the day’s adventures left us with a profound appreciation for the beauty and diversity of New Zealand’s coast.
