Showing posts with label New Zealand. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New Zealand. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Christchurch


The sun came out today - a vast improvement on the cold, wet and windy welcome we had yesterday. This is the view from our B&B - very scenic.

We spent the whole day at the Christchurch Art Centre. Someone with vision has converted the old University into a thriving Arts Complex with resident artists, local quality crafts, good food and a general creative atmostphere that in most other cities I suspect would turn into a tourist hell.

I met some interesting artists who were happy to chat and came away feeling very inspired along with some unusual beads (what a surprise), some very yummy fudge and some great ideas.

As regular readers know - I always look for interesting products when I travel. I am very impressed at how potato chips/crisps are becoming so creative in their flavours. But I think Tomato Sauce & Mince Pie Flavour chips are something that would be only popular in NZ. Or am I wrong? Or maybe Sour Cream and Onion Soup Dip Flavour? I am sure I also saw a Roast Lamb and Mint Sauce Flavour!

As the sun sets we are sitting watching the water and starting to think about dinner.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009


Here we are in beautiful New Zealand.

We have spent a few days in Ashburton in the South Island where I have taught two wonderful classes. Such fun and great students. We spent a lot of time laughing and just generally having a great time.

I did get to see a few of the sights and the colours and light and views are magnificent. Having a new camera helps too. This one was taken out of the car window at 100k/hr in the misty morning. Love those trees.

This is the true colour of the rivers and lakes - Glacial water - stunning isn't it?