Day two in Christchurch saw me taking a bus into the city centre for a walk around to see how the city was recovering from the earthquakes and to see what was available for tourists. Getting a bus to Hagley park I soon discover that beyond the nearby hospital the centre of the city is completely closed off with military guards posted with police to make certain that no one endangered themselves by breaking the cordon - it was interesting and pleasing to see how thorough the authorities were being with safety as all buildings were checked/assessed and given one of three colour codes; red (dangerous with only limited access for work crews and quite possible demolition as a future outcome) yellow (restricted use with no public access) or green (checked as safe and granted public access). I was shocked at the scale of the devastation to the city centre and my thoughts go out to the families affected.
It would appear that the worst hit buildings were those built from bricks as they had been shaken apart - it saddened me to see the wonderful architecture of old churches and colonial buildings left in ruins - I can only hope that these will like the phoenix rise again. Buildings of wood and steel fared much better but damage was evident throughout every street around the centre with tarmac buckled, bridges lifted/dropped and trees felled.
However - do not feel that Christchurch is closed - its not - there are still attractions to come and see including the magical botanical gardens with there sublimely scented rose garden and majestic tree collection. For more attractions check out the tourist centre at the botanical gardens - located next door to the café (they have information on restricted areas and local points of interest). After walking around the city centre and finding the Art Centre and museum closed I took a bus out to the ‘New Zealand Air Museum’ $3.30 from Hagley Park bus stop (bus 5 or 81 drop you at the door). The air museum is FREE and has surprisingly well developed collection of New Zealand air force memorabilia. Check out the mannequins which are based on real people (very lifelike ;)) and I would recommend the restoration hanger tour $10 which introduces you to the current projects and extra exhibits :) Our Guides were fabulous and brought the tour to life with little stories about each of the main exhibits. I spent 2 hours here and could probably have extended that if the museum had not been closing!!
That evening Michael treated me to Curry at a local restaurant in Rollerston - A wonderful treat and after asking for ‘Hot’ chicken tika masala, I got exactly that… (kind of vindaloo hot ;)) but delicious with garlic narn and veg platter. Thank you :)