NZ Day 1 & 2

New Zealand is beautiful but I didnt know how to enjoy myself in the beginning.

I thought they should be friendlier, more courteous.. My own expectation was not helpful to the trip. But after awhile, things became better as we become more accustomed to the culture.

Day 1- From Christchurch to Akaroa- Ajustments

Many things to adjust on the first day.

1. Paul driving an auto-car, he only drove manual in the past.

2. Cold weather

3. Surprised by the expensive food when it claims to be affordable

4. Went to bistro at 530pm, was told to return at 6pm. Hmmm...

5. Waitress confused when we order hot water

Day 2- Akaroa to Hokitika

1. Enjoyed the beautiful scenery in Akaroa in the morning. Majestic sight of mountains and lake, aromatic scent of flowers in the garden and cheerful chirping of birds. Saw a ladybird on a leaf. Nature is so close to me.

2. Had our morning breakfast in the little garden of where we stayed (Halfmoon Cottage)

3. Along the way to Hokitika, the scenes are more or less like this. Sheeps, cows, deers or some horses. I like those with a whole field of sheeps. Reminded me that God is the one who owns them all.

5. Met roadblock along the way. Need to go by Telegraph Road and reach Aurthur's Pass to go to Hokitika. But road works! Stupid GPS only know Telegraph road. Thankful to a BP man, who taught us the way and recommended directory for us.

6. The fun about self-travel in NZ is there are always something worth stopping for. Farms, creeks, lakes, rainbows, signposts, rolling mountains, even postbox!

7. Finally arrived at Arthur's Pass- halfway from Akaroa to Hokitika. Lunch time!! Ice cream time!

Upon finishing, found out that car battery died cos headlights on. But we survive cos of a helpful traveller who fix the car! Thank God. I felt helpless when it came to the car. But I did what I know- pray!

8. We finally reached Hokitika by night fall. Dinner time! Went hunting around for places to eat. Found that French Cafe that Paul missed so much when he went to NZ yrs back. Must take pic of tt place.

Can you see the pattern of travelling. Travel, eat, toilet. Travel, eat, toilet. Then sleep at night. Tt's how it is until we reach Day 3! =)

Blog more next time. No time liao! got to go!