We have had a Christchurch day today which has proved interesting, sad and hopeful by turns. Those of you who know Trudy and Derek will be pleased to know that Trudy was much better today and that we spent most of the day with them!

We went to the Botanic Gardens to start with - a return visit for us but a first for Joan and John. It was quite warm to begin with and although windy we did have some sun. Trudy and Derek joined us there for coffee and cake!

Joan's first fantail

Roses in February?

Then we all went on the tram, which is only recently running again after the earthquake. This took us to Cathedral Junction and we walked to Cathedral Square. It was most disconcerting for us to see the desolation of the place and how different it is from 4 years ago. The hotel we stayed in is still standing but deserted as are many buildings, but even more have been demolished. The chalice which featured in many of our photos of last time is still there but the cathedral is still in the sorry state the earthquake left it in.

Ruins of cathedral with millenium chalice beyond

It was hard to see the city in such a bad way and although there is some building and repairing going on there is obviously much to do. The centre which had been so alive and busy last time is almost dead except for tourists like us. However there are some signs of hope as in the Re:Start Mall which is a new shopping centre made of containers - though you would be hard pushed to tell in many cases as they have been so well done!

Shops in containers

We had lunch in a little cafe in New Regent Street, which is looking smart again after refurbishment. Then we all went to Quake City - an exhibition relating to the recent earthquakes. It was fascinating and we could have spent longer in there but  got thrown out at closing time! It was particularly interesting to hear the first hand accounts from survivors.

We said goodbye to Trudy and Derek - although not for long as we will meet up again in Sydney! Having bought a decent map we returned to our accommodation without any problems or anguish on the part of the navigator!