Day 37 Christchurch, New Zealand

We arrived this morning into Lyttleton New Zealand the port for Christchurch. Ed, Becky & I were taking a ship’s tour, the Tranz Alpine Express Train. Here is the description: “This full day excursion travels on one of the
most scenic train journeys in the world—the Tranz Alpine Express, which links Christchurch, on the east coast, to Greymouth on the west coast. From the port of Lyttelton, you will transfer to the Lyttelton Railway Station to board your chartered train. Depart through Christchurch’s western suburbs and across the fertile Canterbury Plains to Springfield. From here, the train starts climbing and travels through breathtaking alpine scenery as you enter the Arthurs Pass National Park. At Arthurs Pass, there will be free time to visit the Department of Conservation headquarters and, weather and time permitting, view the beautiful alpine scenery from the Viaduct Bridge Lookout. Return to Christchurch by coach where an orientation tour of the city will be given. Pass by the University of Canterbury, Mona Vale and Hagley Park en route to the Arts Centre for a shopping stop. Then, return to Lyttelton via the Lyttelton Tunnel. Arrive back at the ship in the late afternoon.” Well, as you can see from the photos, New Zealand proved once again it has absolutely beautiful scenery. The train ride was fun with lot’s of great views. Once back in Christchurch, we spent some time in the Botanical Gardens before retuning back to the ship… Great Day!!!