As I mentioned before, I knew nothing about this town, but I am finding quickly that I like it.
I would not come back here for a day, but I would come back and stay for a few days at least. And I would do it in a camper van, or car, or with some mode of transportation to move around the whole area.
The place is set up to camp and hike and bike… all the things I did not have the time or the access to vehicles to do. There are mountains to climb and beaches all up and down the coast with spectacular views and activities ranging from seal watching to kayaking.
Having said that, I did explore the town. I walked… more than I wanted to, and I spent time on the beach.
I enjoy beaches, but I do not have a lot of experience on them, or at least coastal beaches. Midwest dweller and such, but most beaches I have been too have at least some sand. This one does not. It is a black pebble beach. Seaweed and various debris, but not a single bit of sand that I could find.
My husband would come to this beach. He hates sand. Not fond of water, but sand drives him nuts.
Another thing that would draw him, and perhaps his friends is the fact the town apparently has a love for unique cars. I saw several as I wandered around, and there were flyers around for car shows and such. Plus they love 80’s music here, and there are even a few microbreweries.
But if he doesn’t come, I have other friends who like nature and that is everywhere. Duh.
They also have some odd customs, like parts of the street that are banned from having alcohol. Or odd names of hotels. Or even unusual laundromats.
The disadvantage for me of this place is the fact it is on the east coast, which means sunrise is better than sunset. At least over the ocean.
I am not an early riser.
But I rose. I walked to the beach and I watched the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean. Not something a lot of people in the states can honestly say they have seen. Unless they come to this side of the world.
For a small town, there is a lot to do if you are into that kind of thing, and I think ‘that kind of thing’ can be a lot of things here. The locals were right. This was a great stop for me, both on a spiritual level and a make me want to come back level.
Now… on to Christchurch.
