Christchurch, Part 1

So, I've made it to Christchurch. I am staying at a quaint little family owned B&B. The B&B is frequented by many going to and coming from the Antarctica, and I was told this would be a great place to stay if you want friendly owners and run into lots of people going to the Pole. Last night on my way to the shower, I ran into a fellow 'Cuber Klas from Sweden. He is on his way back home from the Pole. Then at breakfast, I ran into another 'Cuber, also on her way back. This is great!

Today is a free day: Pole veterans recommended that I should take at least three nights in Christchurch to rest up and get used to the time zone. (South Pole operates on New Zealand time) It's probably a good idea considering the high chance that you may have to wait for your lost luggage etc. Klas had rented a car, and he kindly offered to take me along for a drive out west into the mountains to see lime rock formations. After some adventures along route 73, we got up into the mountains when it started getting very windy and rainy. The car was being shaken from side to side as we drove through the pass. The rain cleared long enough to take a couple of pictures, then picked up again, all in all, it was a fun drive. Thanks Klas! The drive reminded me of Arizona or Colorado, with a little bit of the Bay Area mixed in: dry mountainous landscape with wisps of tall grass and rocks, also eucalyptus trees. We saw sheep, alpaca, and ostrich farms. Oh and wineries too.

Once back in Christchurch, we saw sun peaking through the clouds again, so we had some lunch outside, and went our own ways: I went for a little walk around to orient myself in the city. It is a beautiful city. A strange mix of the Wild West and the proper British gardens.

Tomorrow I'm headed to the CDC (no, not the Center for Disease Control, but the Clothing Distribution Center) to get fitted for my ECW (Extreme Cold Weather clothing and gear). I am to report exactly at 1300 hr.