Christchurch, New Zealand

2:25 PM

Me and Mom's friends in Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch used to be a European Settlement. That's probably why it gives of a very distinct European vibe.

Some time in 2009, I accompanied my mom to her business trip in New Zealand. Since she had meetings for days, I spent most of the trip with her friends.

On our first day, I went sight seeing with mom's friends, visiting a seal colony and witnessed a sheep shearing show in Kaikoura. Despite my objections, we fed lambs and rams from our bare hands. Until now, I still cringe every time I remember how the tongue of the sheep grazed my hands. It was then I realized that I am a certified city girl and can never survive living in the country! haha.

Me and Mom's Friends at Kaikoura Visitor Center

Closer to Nature. New Zealand is gorgeous!

I hated this part. Hehe.

At least in this picture, I didn't feed the ram off my hands!

On our second day, we explored the city a bit more. We had breakfast at Memory Cafe which reminds me so much of Serendipity in New York.

At Memory Cafe

We also visited Lyttelton where we had their famous Fish and Chips for Lunch.

Mom and I at Lyttleton

Fish and Chips for Lunch

We also visited the New Brighton Library -the Library by the beach, where they serve beer! Oh I wish we have this in the Philippines. Would have been helpful while I was studying for the bar (hahaha!)

The Library by the Beach, where they serve beer!

On our last day, we visited Mona Vale, one of the major attractions in New Zealand. This is my favorite part of the trip. It is the closest I have been to Europe. I love the homestead, the gardens and the relaxing vibe it gives off. It is very sad to hear that Mona Vale is closed following the 2010 Earthquake that affected Christchurch.

Oh and one more thing, I found the biggest cup of Cappuccino in Mona Vale! I wish we have this here in the Philippines.

I'm still having dreams about the biggest cup of Cappuccino

The only downside to Christchurch, however, is the lack of internet connection (well, at least during my visit which was in 2009. I wonder how things are right now) and the fact that shops close at 8pm (again, it was back in 2009). I intend to go back though. Especially to Middle Earth!