Little Penguins

We had forgotten just how far New Zealand is from British Columbia, yet upon arrival in Christchurch, how close we really are. The comfort of being “close to home”. 

Thanks to Air Canada and their schedule change we were able to spend 10 hours in Australia while en route to NZ. Since we were hanging out in Sydney for more than 8 hours we needed to apply for a “visa” ($20 Australian) which arrived electronically to our phones less than 5 minutes later. We both felt remarkably awake and alert following a 16 hour flight and jumped on the train at the airport direct to Circular Quay for a photo with the iconic Sydney Opera House, followed by a HopOn-HopOff bus tour and lunch by Darling Harbour.

We arrived in Christchurch at 1:30am local time, picked up our rental car before settling in for a short sleep at Sudima Hotel, a mere 500 metres from the airport. Not quite far enough to become comfortable driving on the left hand side of the road :)

New Zealand Day 1: Christchurch to Oamaru

Not quite the summer temperatures of Sydney, Oamaru was chilly 18c (think Victoria, BC) and windy. Just like home! Our accommodation - Braemar House - is a 3 suite inn originally build in the 1800’s and lovingly restored by the current owners. 

The Oamaru highlights however is the local craft beer scene and a mandatory visit to view the NZ little penguin habitat. 

Stay tuned. More adventures await. ❤️