Chronicles from Narnia

Hello!! 

After 3 jammed pack days of orientation activities, I have finally had 10 minutes to sit down, upload some pictures from the weekend, and write a quick update. Just a few hours after arriving in New Zealand, my study abroad group was given a scavenger hunt to do around campus. This campus is so much larger compared to Macalester. 

The second day of orientation we walked into downtown Christchurch, which is about a 20-30 minute walk from campus(referred to here as Uni). We walked through the Botanic Gardens, which was so beautiful. I can definitely see it as a future running route or lunch spot. 

Picture of the flowers 

After eating lunch at a restaurant downtown, we kayaked down the Avon River. I have always wanted to kayak, but I quickly learned that I was not as good I had hoped. A girl from my program, Sam, and I were in a double kayak together, and we bounced from bank to bank until the group finally decided it was time to turn around. It was a great time, but I think I’ll need a bit more practice before I attempt sea kayaking. Then, we went on a scavenger hunt of downtown Christchurch. As many of you know, Christchurch experienced two large earthquakes about two years ago. I knew about this before I arrived, but seeing how much devastation still exists in the city was quite saddening. I was surprised to see so many restaurants and shops still closed and fenced off to the public. Even though that portion of downtown is still suffering from the earthquakes, there are other parts of the city that are trying to create a new vibe for the city by building new shops and restaurants. You can tell that the city and the citizens are trying to create a more positive view of the city’s future. 

Picture of the Christchurch Cathedral, blocked off due the 2010 earthquake

The past two days, my group traveled to Springfield, which is about an hour away from Christchurch. We spent the first day exploring Castle Hill, which is a hot spot for climbers. It has gorgeous scenery, with tons of different rock formations with beautiful mountains in the backgrounds.The final battle scene in the Lion, Witch, and Wardrobe was filmed about 5 minutes from here.  We went on a gorgeous, warm day, with not a cloud in the sky, which unfortunately ended in a sunburn. 

Castle H

Me on top of the rock I climbed

View of Castle Hill 

We ended our orientation program today planting trees, touring a farm, and then finished with a 30 minute jet boat. I am now back in Christchurch, where I will register for classes and take part in the international student orientation the remainder of the week. Classes don’t start until next Monday, so I have another week to venture around. Daniel arrives tomorrow, and I can’t wait to start showing him around the city. 

Will try to update after my next adventure! 

Erin :)