Over the last three weeks my internet access has been spotty at best, keeping me from updating as frequently as I would like. I’ll try to summarize those weeks as quickly and painlessly as possible.
After the ultimate tournament in Chch, I found a HelpX stay in Akaroa with Jack and Anne at The Mulberry House. Their place is a fantastic B&B with a pool and views of the harbor. It was a wonderful 10 day stay, and I got to help with the guests and various tasks. Jack and Anne are both great conversationalists, and Anne made sure I learned the proper way to make a bed, a lesson I won’t soon forget!
From Akaroa, Liesl, Chris and I headed back to Christchurch to pick up my high school buddy Ryan McElrath, who was just starting a 5 week holiday. From the airport, we headed south, with an eye on Dunedin and the Catlins. What followed was 6 days of camping, tramping, body boarding, touring and plenty of euchre. I’d have to say that this trip has been the most fun I’ve had in NZ thus far. Probably a combination of good friends and beautiful scenery.
Returning to Christchurch, Liesl met up with her mom while Chris, Ryan and I began preparations for a 3 day backpacking trip in the Fiordland National Park. We’ll be leaving sometime today and hopefully successfully completing the Greenstone – Caples track by mid-week. I’m very excited to get some more backpacking under my belt, as I have some very fond memories of the Smokies with my good friend Wes that I’d like to add to.
After this trip, I think it’s high time I start working and hopefully put some money back into the bank. I think I will try to find work in Christchurch – there seem to be plenty of fun things to do here, so I’ll give it a go.
Lots of new pictures are up from Akaroa, Dunedin, and the Catlins.
