Profile
Blog
Photos
Videos
We got to the city by lunch time, parked the car and started wandering. I was curious to see what a completely brand new city would look like. At first we were quite impressed with how much they'd accomplished in the 5 years since the earthquake had devastated it, but within a few minutes of walking further into the core, it became incredibly apparent how much damage still remained. Several buildings were still cordoned off and covered with graffiti, heritage buildings were still being repaired, there seemed to be a influx of creative ways to use shipping containers, and the skyline presented cranes as far as the eye could see.
We had a very long drive the next day, so we were happy to have yet another early night. This also marked the beginning of our "interesting sleeps" locations. We were staying in a jail that had been converted into a hostel. The rooms were all cells, replete with bars on the windows and metal doors. It was shockingly quiet for hostel, and very well put together. A few cells still remained in their original state, to serve as a museum. Overall, I think it had been more exciting in anticipation than reality, but still a worthwhile stay.
We are starting to get tired from the pace, but we're spending 4 days around Abel Tasman starting tomorrow night.It'sll be a long drive, but then, yay, we can slow down a little!!
- comments